Support Alex's Education

I have been a lover of many things in my life. When I was eight years old, I touched a grand piano for the first time at a music store and begged my parents for piano lessons. I loved the way I made people feel when I played them a song that gave them nostalgia or encouraged their imaginations. I chased this feeling and became a dancer. Then a gymnast. A classical cellist for nine years. A singer-songwriter. A poet. An author. An actor. My artistic pursuits have been far and wide, and as I grew older, I struggled to pick just one path to pursue for the rest of my life. I have spent a great deal of time trying to push myself into one artistic box, all which seemed slightly too small for my liking. Of course, I loved all these boxes— each musical instrument, sketch, poem, and performance—but I was unsatisfied. It was not until I discovered the connection between each pursuit when I realized that I did not have to compromise one art for the other. Every endeavor that has made me truly happy has pointed to one transparent fact— I am a storyteller. Every single one of these interests is inherently a part of creating a story for the screen. Cinema is the only medium that connects all art into one experience, which is why it makes us feel so deeply. It was upon this realization that I became consumed by the art of filmmaking and found my path as a screenwriter.

I applied to the prestigious American Film Institute Conservatory last year with low expectations. Boasting a 3% acceptance rate, AFI is an institution that is world-renowned for its successes and impressive alumni such as David Lynch, Ari Aster, and Patty Jenkins. I was overwhelmed with joy when I was accepted as a class of 2026 Screenwriting Fellow. Filmmaking is my dream, and my acceptance to this conservatory is one step closer to achieving it.

While the American Film Institute Conservatory is worth every penny, it has an incredibly high tuition. I have been working diligently every single day applying for scholarships and loans, but I could still use a significant amount of help.

I hope you will consider donating to help fund my education and my dream!