The Sundance Experience

Bella Volpe at Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. (Photo supplied by Bella Volpe)

The reveal date for the J-term study abroad trips for 2021 is approaching, and luckily, there really isn’t a bad choice you can make when choosing your abroad destination. Some of us might be considering traveling to a new continent to delve into a different culture, while others are already training to hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

But last J-Term, rather than leaving the country at all, Elon School of Communications student Bella Volpe decided to travel to Park City, Utah, where she’d experience one of the largest film festivals in the world.

The Sundance Film Festival, held in Park City, Utah, features original storytellers who exhibit new voices and fresh perspectives. Elon’s communications curriculum analyzes the modern-day film industry and the various aspects of film culture. Throughout the week of the event, students have the opportunity to network with professionals in the industry, reflect on films, and gain an understanding of the independent filmmaking process.

Volpe, a double major in strategic communications and computer design, selected this program as an opportunity to make connections and greater understand the industry she wants to go into. Leading up to the trip, students participated in a preparatory course, which hosted guest speakers such as Emmy Award winning editor and Elon alumna Katrina Taylor, who had a movie in Sundance 2020.

What does a typical day at Sundance look like?

Watch any movies before 11 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Attend panels throughout the day featuring film producers, editors, directors, and big actors speaking about their film processes and other socially relevant topics. (Disclaimer: This is also where Volpe touched Will Ferrell’s hand.)

Volpe, now having returned to campus, reflected on her experience.

“I think this program is extremely underrated, and I wish more people knew about it,” she said. “Although it’s a communications elective, I think any major would benefit from this program because it was a real life opportunity. I was able to network and meet with professionals, which expanded my horizons to such a relevant and prosperous industry. This experience was very eye-opening and validated what I’m learning in the classroom. I met people from across all corners of the world who gave me advice and hope for my future career. It’s more than just movies; it’s about investments, brands, social media, sponsorships, and building relationships.”

As you’re considering your J-term class options for next year, just remember you don’t have to leave the country’s borders to immerse yourself in a new culture.

2020 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. (Photo supplied by Bella Volpe)