To begin, my name is Wes Meyers. I am 20 years old and a sophomore at the University of Texas. Undeclared and nearly a junior, I am currently praying for my acceptance into the UT school of Communications as an advertising major. My brother Austin and I have always had a love for multimedia. We were first introduced to producing movies as young teenagers with our parent’s purchase of a digital video camera and an iMac; our lives have not been the same since. Austin has always been the technical one, behind the scenes directing, editing, and generally putting me into dangerous situations. He is more of a “think things through” kind of guy, where as I am much more impulsive. I have acted in many if not most of his university projects as well as provided original music for films. Austin graduated last year with a Radio Television and Film degree from the University of Texas School of Communications. I have been a musician since I was 12 years old and have been home recording since high school. Music is really my passion, although I thoroughly enjoy acting. Last year I was asked to model purses in a fashion show by chance, yes purses, and due to that this summer I participated in a photo shoot for a teen-knitting book that will be out nation wide in Barnes and Noble 2006.
My “proudest” moment I would say is actually band related. I was first chair percussionist every year I was in band, beginning in 6th grade all through high school, even beating out the seniors in the top band as a freshmen. Therefore my proudest moment is walking away with 1st division rating at UIL State Band Competition on a marimba solo piece in 2004.
My “finest” moment was at a Halloween party last night (Oct. 29). I have a good friend that is commonly the brunt of jokes due to his lack of wardrobe diversity and hygiene. This weekend I was able to secretly create a costume where I literally became my friend. My finest moment was last night when we were united in front of all our respective friends. Laughter ripped through the house at the look of his priceless face as we made eye contact.
All of my struggles, in dealing with school, projects, or just life in general have all been backed up by my family and friends. Our parents have always supported our hobbies, and pushed us to make a living with what we like to do. The hardest thing for me is taking the step into the real world. Neither Austin nor I want to settle for a normal “desk job”. Since his graduation, Austin has gone into business for himself as a video editor/producer. This is my greatest inspiration. I have two years before I get kicked off the bandwagon and have to make it for myself. That is terrifying. I hope to use my brother as a learning tool to see what and what not to do upon my entrance into the real world.
What I love most about my life today is my freedom. I love the college experience; Austin is a great place to live. I have plenty of time to pursue my hobbies and make my dreams realities. I love recording music and playing my songs for friends and family, as well as making films with my brother. I know that I will cherish these years as when I grow older.
Another great inspiration of mine is when I get positive feedback on projects that I have been involved in. It thrills me that I am filling out this survey for your newsletter. It gives me courage to try even harder and do even better at what ever it is I’m working on.
The best advice that I have to offer is that the world isn’t out there to take advantage of you, but for you to take advantage of what it has to offer. There are so many opportunities that will take you to your road of success; you just have to jump in. Put yourself out there and find your path.
-Wes Meyers