SAPHIRA OCASIO

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Hello, my name is Saphira Ocasio, I’m a grad student at American University studying Film and
Media. A quick background of myself, I graduated from Georgia State University in 2003 majoring in Film and Video with a minor in Theater. I commissioned to second lieutenant in 2003 and served in a variety of positions during my 13 year Army career. I spent 10 years on Active duty (2004-2014). During my Active duty career I deployed to Iraq in 2008-2009. October 1, 2017 marked three years with the Army Reserves where I hold the rank of Major, position is the Senior Public Affairs officer under a two star general. I’m also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer.

One of my most satisfying opportunities during active duty was my time as a Company Commander. It provided me the opportunity to interact with soldiers on a daily basis. The experience opened my eyes on knowing what it truly means to take care of soldiers. It offered me the opportunity to guide their expectations and educate them on balancing work and their personal lives.

After command, I realized I needed to get back to my true calling and prepared me to pursue my Master of Fine Arts degree in the Film and Media at American University. In a way my experiences on guiding and taking care of soldiers can relate on guiding a film crew to where I can lead but also learn from them as well. It’s all about teamwork and people being open to suggestions and/or advice on where or how filming should go about.