Throughout my time here at Spring Arbor University, one of the best experiences I have had on campus has been being part of Will Shoot For Credit (WSFC). What is WSFC? It is both a club and a class where students can come together to create films, learn new skills, and gain hands-on experience in filmmaking. Students can take the class up to three times, earning three credits each semester. Even after completing all three classes, students can continue participating in WSFC for fun and stay involved with the community. The group meets every Wednesday from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., bringing students together to work on projects and share their passion for filmmaking.

When I first joined WSFC during my first semester at Spring Arbor University in 2023, I had no idea just how much the experience would shape my journey as a student. Each semester brought new people, new ideas, and a different environment. Over time, I have made many friends through the club, and those friendships have become one of the most meaningful parts of my experience. What started as an opportunity to get involved in filmmaking quickly became a place where I could challenge myself, collaborate with others, and bring stories to life.

One of the things I appreciate most about WSFC is the opportunity to try different roles in film production. Filmmaking involves much more than simply pointing a camera and recording a scene. It takes a team of people working together, each contributing their own skills and ideas to make a project successful. Through WSFC, I have had the opportunity to work on dozens of projects, direct films, edit projects, and work behind the camera. Each experience has taught me something new about the filmmaking process and helped me better understand the work that goes into creating a finished film.

Another important part of WSFC is the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone. Whenever I am not working on a story of my own that I want to bring to life, I try to challenge myself by taking on a new position each semester. This has allowed me to learn more about different aspects of production and appreciate the work that everyone contributes. Trying new roles can be challenging, but it also helps me grow as a filmmaker and become a more versatile member of a production team.

Beyond the technical skills, WSFC has given me the opportunity to connect with other students who share an interest in storytelling. Every project brings people with different personalities, perspectives, and creative ideas together. Sometimes those differences lead to challenges, but they also create opportunities to learn how to communicate, solve problems, and work toward a common goal. The friendships I have built through the club have made those experiences even more rewarding.

For students interested in filmmaking, WSFC is a great way to get involved, regardless of how much experience they have. You do not need to know everything about cameras, editing, directing, or writing before joining. The group provides opportunities to learn by doing, make mistakes, and improve with each project. Whether someone wants to pursue filmmaking as a career or simply explore a creative interest, there is room to contribute and discover new skills.

Looking back on my time at Spring Arbor University, WSFC has become much more than a club or a class. It has been a place where I have developed my skills, formed friendships, explored my creativity, and discovered new ways to challenge myself. I am grateful for the experiences and opportunities it has given me, and I look forward to continuing to create stories with the people who make this group special. For me, Will Shoot For Credit is proof that some of the most valuable college experiences happen when you find a community that encourages you to create, collaborate, and grow.

 

Written by SAU Marketing student Eric Budd '27.

 

A short-haired male student with curly hair, wearing a navy polo and glasses, standing in front of a tree.

 

 

Eric Budd

Hey everyone! I'm Eric Budd, a senior from Swartz Creek, Michigan. I major in Video and Film Production, when I'm not in the classroom or studying I try to hang out with friends, if that looks like going to Biggby or watching movies. A reason that I like being at Spring Arbor is the community (I know that's what everyone says) but I have met so many of my closest friends here and will never forget them.