Name: Jared Lemelin
Hometown: Granbury, Texas
Class Year: Senior
Major: Film, Television and Digital Media 

Operating cameras and watching films have fascinated Jared Lemelin since he was a child, and they continue to fascinate him today. Growing up with a strong desire to learn more about how movies are made, he chose to study film, television and digital media (FTDM) at Texas Christian University. Lemelin’s choice gave him the opportunity to learn everything there is to know about operating a camera and the industry he enthusiastically has embraced. 

One of Lemelin’s lifelong sources of inspiration was Steve Irwin, the late Australian zookeeper best known as “The Crocodile Hunter.”  He thought it was incredible how Irwin was able to bring the wildlife of the world up close and personal to audiences with just his camera crew and a passion for wild animals. “When I was younger, I wanted to be Steve Irwin,” he said. 

Interestingly enough, Lemelin had the opportunity to work as a photography and videography intern for two months on a wildlife reserve in South Africa the summer before his senior year. “It was an incredible opportunity where I gained experience in my field on a level that most people dream of,” he said. This experience opened his eyes to the possibility of other wildlife videography opportunities around the world. More than anything, he loved filming and interacting with wild animals in their natural environment, just like Steve Irwin.  

Lemelin expected to learn more about the film industry in his major, but he was surprised to learn just how interactive his classes would be. When he took Cinematography his sophomore year, he had the opportunity to make his own short film. Making the short film was extremely hands-on; he set up cameras and lighting, designed sets and worked with real actors. “I felt like I was already working in a production studio,” he said. “Cinematography has been one of my favorite classes at TCU.” 

Reflecting on these class experiences made Lemelin realize he has had many opportunities for hands-on work at TCU. He was always able to work with real cameras and real people, and he felt that this interactive work was more valuable than if he were just reading about the industry in a textbook. Because of this, he knows that TCU’s program has given him a huge advantage that will benefit his future career.  

Being a FTDM major introduced Lemelin to both a world of opportunities and a community of people who share his same passions. “I’ve been lucky to be a part of a culuture that has a genuine love and appreciation for the same things I do,” he said. He and his friends share their appreciation for film by not only watching movies in class, but also in their free time outside the classroom for fun. 

When he graduates, Lemelin wants work for a local production studio in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. “I love the culture of the DFW area, and I know that there are many fellow Frogs that I can stay connected with throughout my career,” he said. “One part of the DFW culture I especially love is the restaurants. I’ll never turn down an invitation to one of my favorites, Torchy’s Tacos, Chuy’s Tex-Mex or Woodshed Smokehouse.” 

Studying FTDM at TCU has been particularly meaningful to Lemelin, pushing him to craft his skills and creativity with each new project. He is sad that his time in the FTDM department is coming to a close but hopes that future FTDM students will have a similar, meaningful experience. 

After four years at TCU, Lemelin is ready to pursue his career — and whatever he does, he will work with dedication and passion as he has done in the past.