Academy Gold Rising: Spotlight on The L.A. Film School Students and Alumni
We’re always excited to celebrate our students and alumni who are making their mark in the entertainment industry.
This year, a handful of both our talented graduates and students completed the Academy Gold Rising internship program, a prestigious initiative by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
But Academy Gold Rising is more than just an internship. It’s an eight-week journey filled with learning, networking and mentorship. It builds on all the opportunities that the students are offered at The Los Angeles Film School, giving participants another great way to break into the industry.
Through this program, our selected students and alumni gained amazing opportunities for growth, mentorship and building industry connections—showcasing the dedication and creativity they bring to their work.
Their journey in this program reflects the strong foundation they built at The L.A. Film School and we couldn’t be more proud to celebrate their success.
Ariel Harris: From Navy Vet to Award-Winning Filmmaker
Ariel Harris truly stole the show at the Academy Gold Rising graduation, an event that celebrates some of the most promising new talents in film.
For Ariel, graduation night was particularly sweet. She had applied to the program the previous year but didn’t get in. Instead of giving up, Ariel took on feedback, leaned on the support from her L.A. Film School advisor and gave it another shot. This time, she not only got in but shone bright, proving that persistence really does pay off.
Ariel’s journey to becoming a filmmaker is as unique as it is inspiring. Before she found her way into the world of film, she served in the U.S. Navy, where she developed not just a strong sense of discipline but a deep love for storytelling. Originally from North Carolina, her passion for movies eventually led her to The L.A. Film School, where she quickly made her mark as a standout student, even earning the title of “Student of the Month” in July 2024.
During her time in the Academy Gold Rising program, Ariel took on the role of assistant director for the short film Flutter. The set they created on The L.A. Film School’s Kurosawa stage was nothing short of amazing, and the film, edited by fellow L.A. Film School alum Nasim Kiani, is a great showcase of the talent emerging from our school.
But Ariel’s achievements don’t stop there. She’s already secured a job at Panavision, a top company in the film industry, where she’ll continue to hone her craft. And if that’s not impressive enough, her pilot, Pledge: Change is Good, recently won the Jury Award at the Essence Festival in New Orleans.
What Makes Academy Gold Rising so Special?
Academy Gold Rising is an eight-week program designed to give college seniors, recent graduates and young professionals unique access to the film industry and Academy members, combining education and networking opportunities.
Since its inception, the Academy Gold Rising program has partnered with schools like The L.A. Film School to provide students with unique opportunities. Over the years, more than 40 L.A. Film School students and alumni have taken part in this program, gaining invaluable experience and making connections that have propelled their careers forward.
This year, alongside Ariel, several other L.A. Film School students and alumni joined the ranks of Academy Gold Rising participants:
- Edo Natasha (Film Production June 2025) – Editing Concentration
- Ariel Harris (Film Production Sept 2024) – Cinematography Concentration
- Nasim Kiani (Film Production March 2023) – Editing Concentration
- Marci Facundo-Moya (Film Production Oct 2024) – Cinematography Concentration
- Metzli Duran (Film Production June 2024) – Production Design Concentration
- Shaunette Fenton (Film Production and EB Dec 2021) – Cinematography Concentration
- Dane Andersen (Animation Feb 2023) – VFX Concentration
- Anthony Williams (Film Production March 2025) – Cinematography Concentration
- Kevin Paul Casteneto (Animation Dec 2023) – VFX Concentration
- Oliver Boon (Audio Production Nov 2024) – Sound Design Concentration
- Elmer Beriguete (Audio Production Nov 2023) – Sound Design Concentration
This pool of talented individuals brings a unique skill set to the table and their participation in the Academy Gold Rising program is a testament to the school’s strong commitment to nurturing diverse, creative talent.
What’s Next for Ariel Harris and The L.A. Film School Team?
Ariel’s journey from a U.S. Navy veteran to an award-winning filmmaker is just the beginning.
With her new role at Panavision and her continued success in the film industry, there’s no telling what heights she’ll reach next. And she’s not alone. The other L.A. Film School students and alumni who have participated in the Academy Gold Rising program are also set on their paths to success in Hollywood.
As we continue to celebrate the achievements of our students and alumni, we’re reminded of the incredible potential that lies within each of them. The Academy Gold Rising program is just one of many opportunities available to our students, helping them turn their passion for film into successful careers.
If you’re inspired by Ariel’s story and want to learn more about the Academy Gold Rising program or how The L.A. Film School can help you achieve your goals in the entertainment industry, get in touch to talk.
And don’t forget to watch the Academy Gold Rising graduation stream here.
At The L.A. Film School, we’re all about supporting our students every step of the way, from the classroom to the red carpet. So whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, we’re here to help you make it happen.