2023 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Alvaro Serrano

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted a variety of different work for merits. From a promotional construction video to a personal film diary. I wanted to evoke different emotions when watching these different videos.

In the promotional construction video I produced there is this Mexican style element that it portrays. To the upbeat regional Mexican music and to the physical work flow. There's a special moment of creativity meeting advertising.

My film diary was very personal and got a glimpse of who's really behind the camera. I stepped out my comfort zone and talked about a feeling I've been dealing with for a while, thinking too much about my future and what it holds. In the short film I talk about this problem and then transition into the thought of just simply living in the present.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

I decided to come to MCAD to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Filmmaking and minor in Entrepreneurial Studies. I've always had a love for creating videos at a young age. So I knew I needed to attend a college that would help me continue my venture for creating videos/films.

What's next for your practice? Anything you're really excited to make?

I am really excited to shine a different light on my practice and build more connections in my city. I want to dive into producing more promotional videos for new businesses and small shops around me.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

The connections I have made with my professors and all the people I have met.

What inspires you? 

My Mom is my inspiration for everything that I do.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

Last semester I created a voice over stop motion video about Lucha Libre for my Writing and Inquiry final. I really enjoyed the process of taking all the pictures and the overall end result of this project. I talked about how I grew up watching Lucha Libre in my Hispanic household, and the whole history behind the masks and what they represent. I also created my own mask and showcased it in this stop motion format.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment? 

Watching Full House.