One Student's Dream

It’s not Roanhorse’s first go at college. He initially studied under CWC’s automotive program, intending to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. But life as a youngster was a little crazy back then, he said, and he dropped out and focused on work. He’s been a community health outreach worker for Eastern Shoshone Tribal Health since 2011, and currently balances both school and work in his 30s.

It’s a different experience for him this time, Roanhorse explained. “It’s really different going to school when you’re older,” he said. “You appreciate it more.”

His first semester back was probably the hardest; ineligible for scholarships or financial aid, he was paying out-of-pocket for all his classes. Now, he’s landed some scholarships and it’s meant things are a little less stressful, financially, though he’s still got two full-time gigs on his plate.

Roanhorse said he’s thankful for all the support from the faculty and staff at CWC, and credits his mom as helping to push him to further his education. She’s also a CWC graduate in the accounting program, but like Brian, her college years came a little later in life. “She always wanted to go to school ever since she was a teenager,” Brian explained. “But she had me. I’m the oldest of five … She had to put us first, so she started working from an early age.” Brian and his siblings watched as their mom worked to get through college; now she heads up the housing program in Fort Washakie. “She’s always supported us and wanted us to do our best,” Brian shared.

CWC Associate Professor of Film Jeremy Nielsen lauded Roanhorse’s exhaustive knowledge of movies. “He’s seen a ton. When asked ‘Who’s seen this?’ he always has. This is an excellent baseline for his own work as well and an example of his inherent interest in the medium itself,” Nielsen explained. “Second, he’s very even keeled. Sometimes making moves can be very stressful and overwhelming. I have never seen Brian unable to manage his situation and he is always smiling, inquisitive and curious, even when the going gets difficult. This makes for a great student and an even better filmmaker.”