Matt Chezum

High school: East Moline Christian

Hometown: New Windsor, Ill.

Majors: Chemistry, film  

Activities: Film Club, club soccer

Internship: CORE-DT (The EDGE Center), where I am building a broadcast solution for Augustana College sports and campus events

Post-grad plans: Continue as a freelance sports broadcaster; acquire funding to produce the feature film that I am writing.

Why Augustana?

From the beginning of my college search to now, the Augustana community has been relentless in its care and support. 

All of the promotional material and handwritten, personal letters that are sent when a prospective student applies is just a small taste of the overwhelming sense of community that this college possesses. 

That is why I chose Augie and that is also what I think sets it apart from other institutions.

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

Absolutely not. I came here thinking I'd only be a STEM guy, but now I am pursuing my passion in film. I have a multitude of opportunities to pursue after I graduate, and I feel ready to take them on. 

I've been able to experience so many amazing things in my four years here at Augie, and the best part is that they are experiences that I can take with me to even greater heights.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

Too many people to name, truly. I am blessed to have a strong support structure with my family and a very close group of friends. To me, that is invaluable and can make the difference in one's success. In addition, every professor that I've had whether for core classes or perspectives/electives, has truly wanted to see me succeed. 

I also have to thank Professor Stacy Barton for being such a great mentor. She has pushed me to be my greatest creative self. My film peers are also amazing people. That program has so much passion and talent in it, and I have no doubt that it will continue to produce impactful filmmakers.

Peak experience?

Winning the Student Audience Choice Award at the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival. Winning an award for the first film I have made was an indescribable experience. It was what helped me realize that I really could make it as a filmmaker. 

Now I can say that I am an award-winning filmmaker before even graduating, and Augie is the reason.

What surprised you?

I was surprised at how quickly opportunity came. Yes, work had to be put in, and it wouldn't have happened if I didn't pursue the opportunities, but because I chose Augie, I found that I was limited only by myself. If you are willing to put in the effort, being at Augie will make sure you are rewarded for it.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for my film Senior Inquiry. Making any film is a huge endeavor, and the costs can rack up quickly. Using the Augie Choice for my capstone film allowed me to focus on the production and create the best film that I could.

What will you miss the most?

Besides the bang-bang chicken at the CSL, I will miss the people of the film program. As excited as I am to see each of us find our own success, the encouragement and fun we had was unmatched. 

Just being able to be around people who are passionate about the same things that you are is so encouraging and refreshing. Having to move on from that will be really tough.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Embrace the change. Take it from the STEM guy who is now writing a feature film. College is when you find out what makes you go. Don't worry about what you thought you would do or your self-expectations. Just find out what you love and go all in. Augie will be there for you when you do.