From Field to Stage to Frame
By Eva Cheeseman
My brother is a genius. He knew how to program an algebra calculator to run a function game of Flappy Bird in sixth grade. He can solve a Rubik’s cube in less than a minute. He got an Ivy League education in computer science and moved to Seattle after graduation to work corporate in one of the biggest companies in the world. I, on the other hand, did not get straight A’s in grades 1 through 12. I did not know how to code at the ripe age of 13, and I certainly cannot solve a Rubik’s cube. I was the kid who did really well in art class but needed tutoring in math. I was diagnosed with ADHD in 7th grade and had to prepare for standardized tests much longer than the average kid. However, if there is one thing I know how to do, it’s tell a story. Growing up, I loved to make videos. Whether it was a music video for a Jay Sean song or a rant about why grated parmesan cheese is better than shredded, I’ve always had a connection to storytelling through moving images.
I originally came to college for theater, and had years of acting lessons and musical theater experience under my belt. But when I became a full time student at
Temple University amidst a global pandemic, I realized it wasn’t for me. I enjoyed acting, but I wanted even more freedom to be creative beyond the usage of my own voice and facial expressions. Feeling lost, I transferred into Media Studies and Production as a sophomore and immediately fell in love. Not only was I learning how to record and edit footage with professional-grade equipment, but I was able to create a story from scratch and execute it in a team. I’ve gone from telling a story in front of a camera to behind, making my expertise full circle in connection to an audience.
As for my goals, I wish to work in sports for the best fanbase in the world: Philadelphia. As someone who played a handful of sports during childhood and adolescence, I strive to continue to implement sports in my free time and profession. Philadelphia has a level of grit that continues to surprise me, despite growing up here. We’re tough, we’re honest, and we know how to keep things interesting. It seems that JTWO has that same grit, which is why I’m so excited to be a part of this team. I can’t wait to learn, create, and grow.
This project was created as part of the JTWO [INC]ubator Project. A semester long internship program built from the ground up to give young filmmakers, content creators, and all around hungry for a challenge individuals a place to stretch their creative minds while preparing them for the road ahead.