From Finance to Filmmaking: Organized Creativity

Q: How are you combining your experience as a financial analyst with your growing skills in filmmaking and videography?

I have always had a desire to express my creativity and explore various creative avenues. However, to advance my skills as a content creator, I decided to attend film school at Sessions to further my learning.

My background as a financial business analyst has shaped my approach to content creation. Working in a highly technical and analytical field taught me how to break down complex information, find patterns, and tell a clear story with data.

I apply the same principles to filmmaking by structuring videos thoughtfully, ensuring each scene serves a purpose, and being intentional with the story I want to tell. The discipline and attention to detail from my analytical career give me an edge in planning shoots, editing efficiently, and staying organized during the creative process.

Maribel Monsalve filmmaking projects

Q: Has studying at Sessions helped you refine your creative voice or given you new tools to approach storytelling?

I am still in the process of finding my voice when it comes to the types of videos and stories I want to share, but studying at Sessions has given me a much stronger foundation to build on. Through the coursework and assignments, I’ve gained a better understanding of visual storytelling. I’ve learned how to think intentionally about framing, pacing, and the emotional arc of a piece. I have also learned how my editing and directorial decisions help create an experience for the viewer.

Sessions has also pushed me to think more critically about the “why” behind my content, not just the “how.” I now feel more empowered to experiment, take creative risks, and trust my instincts as a filmmaker.

Q: What’s the most valuable or surprising thing you’ve learned in the program so far?

One of the most valuable things I’ve learned is how important structure and planning are to creativity.

Before, I thought creativity was mostly about inspiration in the moment, but through the program, I’ve realized that having a clear structure through storyboarding, scripting, or shot planning actually gives you more freedom to be creative.

Another surprising lesson has been the extent of thought that goes into even the smallest details in filmmaking. Choices like camera angles, lighting, and sound design aren’t random; they’re deliberate tools to guide the audience’s emotions and understanding.

Learning to be intentional with every element has completely changed how I approach video projects.

Maribel Monsalve filmmaking projects

Q: You’ve already created some standout work in the program, like your Ice Cream Museum travel video. What did you enjoy most about creating it?

Honestly, the venue was so colorful and beautiful that I couldn’t resist showing people how fun it was to stop by for a visit. I want to create videos that entice people to see beyond the surface.

As a travel content creator, I want to share the beautiful places I visit.

Q: Do you see yourself fully transitioning into creative media, or do you hope to keep blending business with content creation?

My goal is to create multiple streams of income, including YouTube, freelancing for clients, and blogging, among others. For now, I must maintain a stable income to be able to power these dreams.

For my dream project I would love to create a 5-10 minute travel series as part of the content options available on flights to destinations around the world.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about shifting careers or blending creative skills into a new industry?

I would tell them not to second-guess their instinct. If they have a desire to shift their careers and pivot into a creative field, they should listen to that desire. I was recently inspired by the book Four Thousand Weeks, which really put in perspective whether we should spend the majority of our lives ignoring what our souls are calling us to do!

To find out more about Maribel’s work you can follow her on her blog thequeenoftrips.com or on Youtube. To find out more about our filmmaking courses and programs, visit our Undergraduate Certificate in Filmmaking and Digital Media program and our Associate Degree in Digital Media program. Check out our Digital Media Student Gallery, and schedule a meeting with our Admissions team to find out about our tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and more.