We are always excited to celebrate our students and alumni who are making their mark in the entertainment industry.
This year, a handful of our talented graduates and students completed the Academy Gold Rising Internship Program, a prestigious initiative of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
But Academy Gold Rising is much more than just an internship. It is an eight-week journey filled with learning, networking and mentoring. It builds on all the opportunities available to students at the Los Angeles Film School, giving participants another great way to break into the industry.
Through this program, our selected students and alumni have benefited from incredible opportunities for growth, mentorship and making industry connections, demonstrating the dedication and creativity they bring to their work.
Their journey through this program reflects the strong foundation they have built at LA Film School and we couldn’t be more proud to celebrate their success.”
Ariel Harris: From Navy Veteran to Award-Winning Filmmaker
Ariel Harris truly stole the show at the Academy Gold Rising graduation, an event that celebrates some of cinema’s most promising new talents.
For Ariel, graduation night was particularly sweet. She had applied to the program the year before but was not accepted. Instead of giving up, Ariel accepted the feedback, leaned on the support of her advisor at LA Film School, and tried again. This time, not only did she enter, but she shined, proving that perseverance really does pay off.
Ariel’s journey to becoming a filmmaker is as unique as it is inspiring. Before entering the world of acting, she served in the United States Navy, where she developed not only a strong sense of discipline, but also a deep love for storytelling. Originally from North Carolina, her passion for film ultimately led her to the LA Film School, where she quickly established herself as a standout student, even winning 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 Beat. The set they created on the Kurosawa Stage at the LA Film School was simply incredible, and the film, edited by fellow LA Film School alumnus Nasim Kiani, is a great showcase of our school’s emerging talent.
But Ariel’s accomplishments don’t stop there. She has already secured a job at Panavision, a leading company in the film industry, where she will continue to hone her craft. And if that’s not impressive enough, its pilot, Commitment: Change is a good thingrecently won the Jury Prize at the Essence Festival in New Orleans.
What makes Academy Gold Rising so special?
Academy Gold Rising is an eight-week program designed to provide seniors, recent graduates and young professionals unique access to the film industry and Academy members, combining training and networking opportunities.
Since its inception, the Academy Gold Rising program has partnered with schools like the LA Film School to provide students with unique opportunities. Over the years, more than 40 LA Film School students and alumni have participated in this program, gaining invaluable experience and making connections that have advanced their careers.
This year, alongside Ariel, several other LA Film School students and alumni have joined the ranks of Academy Gold Rising participants:
- Edo Natasha (Film production June 2025) – Editing focus
- Ariel Harris (Film production September 2024) – Cinematography concentration
- Nasim Kiani (Film production March 2023) – Editing focus
- Marci Facundo-Moya (Film production October 2024) – Cinematography concentration
- Metzli Duran (Film production June 2024) – Concentration in production design
- Shaunette Fenton (Film Production and EB December 2021) – Cinematography concentration
- Dane Andersen (Animation February 2023) – Concentration of visual effects
- Anthony Williams (Film production March 2025) – Cinematography concentration
- Kevin Paul Casteneto (Animation December 2023) – Concentration of visual effects
- Oliver Boon (Audio production November 2024) – Concentration in sound design
- Elmer Beriguete (Audio production November 2023) – Concentration in sound design
This pool of talented individuals brings a unique skill set and their participation in the Academy Gold Rising program demonstrates the school’s strong commitment to nurturing diverse and creative talent.
What’s next for Ariel Harris and the LA Film School team?
Ariel’s journey from U.S. Navy veteran to 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. Other LA Film School students and alumni who participated in the Academy Gold Rising program are also on the path to success in Hollywood.
As we continue to celebrate the achievements of our students and alumni, we are 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 are inspired by Ariel’s story and would like to learn more about the Academy Gold Rising program or how LA Film School can help you achieve your goals in the entertainment industry, contact us to find out talk.
And don’t forget to watch the Gold Rising Academy graduation stream here.
At LA Film School, we strive to support 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 get there.