Film, anthropology buff says scholarship was key

Six questions for Brett Forrest, University of Colorado alumnus and recipient of a Buffalo Bicycle Classic Scholarship.

1. What did you study, and what drew you to this discipline?

I studied film and anthropology and received a leadership certificate through the President’s Leadership Class. I was drawn to film because I had been producing films with my brothers since I was in fifth grade and I had a great passion for it. Anthropology came into my life through a couple of archaeology classes my freshmen year. I found great interest in studying other cultures and ultimately declared it as a second major. They both combined into a great tandem of degrees that related very well to one another.

2. What do you hope to be doing in a decade?

Teaching special education in Denver through Teach for America is on my horizon for the next two years. After that, I hope to be producing my own show for National Geographic or the Discovery Channel or running my own magazine (or whatever the medium is at that point in time). I would love to combine my majors into something tangible and relatable to people of all backgrounds. This primarily includes educational documentaries.

3. If you could tell a prospective college student only one thing about higher education, what would it be?

College will change your life in profound ways, and I am very envious that you have your whole college career ahead of you.

4. What have you found most memorable or meaningful about your time at CU?

CU provides the best possible balance between incredible and demanding academics, a fun college-town atmosphere, awesome outdoor activities, distinct seasons, 300 days of sunshine, infinite extracurricular activities, and so on. What is there to complain about CU?

5. What activities or extracurricular activities do you participate in on campus?

I participated in the President’s Leadership Class as both a scholar and the assistant director of recruitment and selection, I served as the vice president of the Arts and Sciences Student Government, I was a CU tour guide through the Student Ambassadors organization, I received a UROP grant to aid in archaeological research with Professor Elspeth Dusinberre of the classics department, I co-lead the CU Stands With Haiti campaign, and I'd be willing to bet I played in more intramural sports than anyone else on campus.

6. What does it mean to you that you were selected as a Buffalo Bicycle Classic scholar?

It was a great honor to receive this scholarship, and I am eternally grateful. Every bit helps when it comes to college tuition, and the BBC pushed me over the threshold to make college affordable. I am tremendously happy to have been a part of the scholarship, and I wish the best of luck to all of those yet to go through college who are receiving this scholarship.

The Elevations Buffalo Bicycle Classic, which raises funds for scholarships, includes ride distances of 14, 35, 50, 70 and 100 miles. To learn more about the Sept. 11 event or to register, click here.

August 2011