Filmmaking Major Builds Technological Skills, Self-Confidence, and Supportive Network

June 12, 2024 | Bradenton

Matt Boldin is benefiting from a life-changing experience as a filmmaking major and student employee at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). He is studying full time for his associate in science degree in digital cinema, working in digital production with SCF’s Communications and Government Relations (CAGR) department since January, and, to his delight, making movies again.

“I really wanted to get back into filmmaking, working around people, and doing production,” said Boldin. “I’m really happy to be where I am. I’m right where I need to be.”

Born and raised in Sarasota, Boldin started movie making at age 12. At Booker Middle School and Booker High School, he immersed himself in the schools’ TV production and TV/film visual and performing arts (VPA) programs, where he learned about camera use, videotape shooting, and the art of filmmaking. Through the VPA programs, he developed his love of video editing, received valuable mentoring, and utilized his skills producing a live daily news show and making several short films with a good friend. After high school, Boldin gained professional film experience working locally as a technical director at Suncoast News Network television station.

Passionate about post-production, Boldin considers himself more of a tech than an artist as he focuses on creating shot lists, editing, and working hands-on with newer cameras at SCF. In his work-study role with CAGR, Boldin has organized media content, created graphics, and filmed, edited, and appeared in videos for the College’s social media platforms. Two of his biggest supporters, Drew Navy, digital production manager, and Jamie Smith, associate vice president of CAGR, guide him along the way.

“It has been so awesome with everyone helping me succeed,” Boldin said. “Drew and I are so alike; we’re film nerds. Jamie has been great mentoring me and establishing me as a professional.”

As a second-generation SCF student, Boldin saw the impact the College had on his mother. She graduated in photography from SCF 10 years ago and he has taken classes with some of her same professors. Another major influence for attending SCF and pursuing filmmaking was his good friend and avid supporter, Michael Musselman, an Austin, Texas filmmaker who passed away in 2021.

Boldin has dealt with mental health issues and felt lost in his life. He took the time off he needed to get back to school and moving making. At SCF, he feels connected to people and likes to help his fellow classmates, including a recent digital production internship he recommended to filmmaking major Alan Curtis. Boldin plans to finish his studies and graduate in about a year.

“I went to SCF to catch up on tech, grow my network, and grow my confidence,” Boldin said. “I’m really proud to be making stuff again and to see the personal growth.”

In his free time, Boldin enjoys researching historical maps, hiking, watching movies, and playing video games. He envisions a future in film production, possibly locally.

“In the next five years, I would like to be working on movies,” Boldin said.

For more information, visit SCF.edu.