Ryan Muschler
(he/him)
k21rm01@kzoo.edu
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Major: English
Minor: Religion
Concentration: Film & Media Studies and American Studies
Study Abroad: Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Best Adjective to Describe You: Passionate
DSAs are nominated by departments or programs. Ana knows firsthand what it’s like to be in the Film & Media Studies concentration. She is available via e-mail and at special campus events to answer your questions. DSAs do not replace academic advisors or faculty, but serve as an additional resource at K.
What Ryan Loves about Film and Media Studies and More
In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The wide variety of classes you can take. It shows how expansive the outlet of film is!
What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
Start taking the classes as electives and see if you want to continue (which you surely will).
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
Don’t expect specific things from college. It’s not always supposed to be good so take the intensity of the experience as its strength.
What has been your favorite class at K?
ENGL-151: RTW: Identities! It explored how self-referential writings explore author’s identities but Bruce Mills taught it in a way that let us explore our own identities like the authors did. There are no other classes here that have shown me how personal art/literature can be for both writer and reader. And the reading list was stellar!
How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I’ve taken classes across almost ten departments in my time here and none have been forced on to me. Not giving general requirements gives you time to explore academic topics that you find interesting and are passionate about.
What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I’ve been involved with many student organizations, some in leadership roles. These expand your social circle substantially and let you take part in non-academic activities on campus.
What is your SIP?
I am writing, directing, and editing a short film that explores the voyeuristic nature of ethnography through a college student writing about their friend group’s various dynamics.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
Nothing specific or set in stone. I hope to do something in the film industry though.
What is a random fun fact about you?
When I was about 7 years old, I touched the real Starry Night painting in a museum. Security was livid.