NCSU Libraries is hosting a screening of the Emmy nominated documentary, “Personal Statement.” The screening will be on Monday, September 23rd at 6:00PM in D.H. Hill Library. Following the screening students with lived experiences similar to those students in the film will be leading a discussion with those in attendance. The film follows three high school students who are determined to get their entire classes to college, even though they aren’t even sure they are going to make it themselves. These students are working as college counselors for their school due to a severe lack of resources.The students, Karoline, Christine and Enoch welcomed the filmmakers into their schools and homes because they knew it was important for viewers to see the real struggles they face – economically, socio-culturally and personally.
To learn more about the film, please go to https://www.personalstatementfilm.com/
The Libraries began planning this event when one of the students featured in the film wrote an Opinion in the New York Times in response to the college admission scandals of early 2019. “The Implicit Punishment of Daring to Go to College When Poor” https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/28/opinion/college-admissions.html
The goal of hosting Personal Statement is to engage the campus community in an informed and compassionate discussion regarding college access and the complicated layers surrounding it. Being aware of what a student has to do to be accepted to NC State directly impacts how we may best serve that student till graduation.
If you would like to know more about getting involved with the event or if you have any question/concerns about the film or the event can be directed to Marian Fragola at mgfragol@ncsu.edu.