• Raised in a family auction business. Growing up in a family business setting that inevitably required my constant involvement taught me that hard work isn't something you wait around on; you just get it done. I've also become plugged into the consignment auction industry, knowing where to find and sell everything from shipping containers to iPads. I've gained intuition from surveying thousands of lots and predicting what inside had value. The various connections and knowledge of equipment I've acquired through auctions continue to be extremely useful assets in every filmmaking project I pursue.

• Proficient in stop-motion animation. As a kid, I spend much of my free time practicing animation, taking thousands of photos of my dolls to tell short stories that could both entertain and house meaning. This established an incredible sense of patience and attention to minute detail in my attitude towards any creative project, ultimately striving for the highest quality possible, regardless of the time and effort it takes to achieve it.

• Spent high school as a hardcore TPUSA member/chapter leader. Without Turning Point USA opening doors to learn and sparking mindful questions, I don't think I would have become as deeply rooted in my passion for leaving the world a better place as I am today. Through this organization, I've heard incredible speeches at conferences, found connections across the country, built long-lasting friendships, and understood both how society functions and my own thoughts so much more clearly. Above all these amazing experiences though, nothing could ever substitute for the time I spent leading the local chapter. I grew in my oratory skills, strategizing, confidence, and most importantly, humility. It is with all of this I am honored to be an American!

My All-Time Favorite Movies

|The Lord of the Rings

The greatest of all time, no question about it. (The trilogy has to count as one here; they're equally awesome.)

|Signs

The prime example of a movie with no extra baggage; Everything has a purpose and flows together.

|It's a Wonderful Life

It only took a dash more maturity to realize what a masterpiece this film is; Watching it really does make you feel like every moment of life is wonderful.

|You've Got Mail

Even within virtually impossible circumstances, this movie is ironically realistic at portraying the nature of relationships.

|Back to The Future

Creative details and natural effects always prove to bring quality to a film.

|The Bourne Identity

Extreme writing, screenplay, and developmental ways.

|Nacho Libre

A family tradition that gets better the more times you watch it (and absolutely underrated, chancho).

|Megamind

Oh yeah. It's actually very well-written, hilarious, and has a rockingly-fit soundtrack.

|The Incredibles

Such a genius story (with an actually meritable villain) that holds great meaning.

|The River Wild

One of those movies that feels awful to watch but leaves you realizing that it kept you on the edge of your seat.

|Chicken Run

Used to be a horrified "no" as a child but now observed as a tale describing the dream of glorious freedom.