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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
Professional Photographer Mentors Students at University School of NSU
A chance meeting and a photographer’s desire to “pay it forward” has resulted in a string of unprecedented learning opportunities for students at University School of NSU.
After hearing a radio interview last year with professional photographer Marc Serota, University School teacher Judie Jackowitz used Facebook to connect with him and ask if he would speak to her digital photography students.
He did, and the students enjoyed his session so much that Jackowitz invited him to come back, joking that next time he should bring with him a Miami Dolphin. Serota obliged. This year, the popular digital photography program has expanded, and so has Serota’s generous all-access offers.
First, he led the University School community in a photography session featuring the best players in the nation at the National Volleyball League’s Beach Volleyball Championship. Then, in October, Serota made University School’s Epstein Center for the Arts the location for his professional shoot with Miami Dolphins running back Daniel Thomas.
Serota’s willingness to mentor students stems from his own experiences with professional photographers while studying at the Art Institute at Fort Lauderdale.
“My personal philosophy is that nobody gets anywhere in life without the help of others,” Serota said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without it”.
The humble words impress considering that this is a man who has shot six Sports Illustrated covers and countless Dan Marino books, freelanced for The New York Times, and has owned his own studio for 17 years and counting.
“For students to have the opportunity to photograph professional athletes is a rare and unique occasion. They don’t just watch a professional photo shoot, they actually get to be a part of it,” Jackowitz said.
Three years ago, Jackowitz founded the Middle School photography club. Last year, she had to add a wait list to the wait list for Middle and Upper School digital photography classes. This year, University School welcomes three additional digital photography teachers — Suzanne Kerr, Michael Lyn and Maria Vega — and Serota continues to “pay it forward” by mentoring University School students.
“There are many more photo shoots being planned as we speak,” Jackowitz added. “Let’s just say that if your child is into sports and likes taking pictures, they will be thrilled with the opportunities that await”.