Chasing after your dreams takes drive, passion and a little luck. Mario Falcon has all three. Those factors helped him navigate a career in the film industry over the past 20 years. Now, they’re helping him guide the next generation of aspiring filmmakers at North East ISD’s Design and Technology Academy (DATA).
Like many NEISD campuses, DATA students learn from teachers with decades of industry experience and resources. Years of working in front of and behind the camera on film sets, commercials and music videos have taught him the art of flexibility. Lessons learned inspire Falcon to encourage his students to take ownership of their education.
“This particular group of students are very unique,” said Falcon. “They want to be in my class, and I can tell because they’re very engaged. I try my best to let my students learn what they want to learn. Of course, they’re going to learn everything, but I really try to focus and hone in on their strengths and skills.”
Experience has taught Falcon to play to his strengths. He knows the faster his Audio Video Production students learn where their skillsets lie, the quicker they can find their passions. Part of this process challenges students to step outside of their comfort zone. Falcon prides himself on his ability to offer his students tangible, on-set learning experiences.
“I try to expose them to things they aren’t traditionally exposed to,” said Falcon. “They learn set etiquette and how to present themselves in public. Presentation is very, very important. It’s more important than knowing how to film. People want to believe you, but you have to believe in yourself first.”
Falcon knows what it takes to ‘make it’ in the industry. Ultimately, that means something different to everyone. For him, it means staying true to yourself and diving into what makes you passionate, regardless of the circumstances around you.
“It’s really about you and what’s inside you that’s going to make that connection,” said Falcon. “It’s not about being the best filmmaker, it’s not about being the best writer – it’s about being the best you.”
Life is what you make of it. Falcon’s students are learning that firsthand from a filmmaker who lets passion drive his art.
DATA is located inside Roosevelt High School and emphasizes career and professional readiness in the fields of Animation, Architecture, Computer Science, Design & Arts, Technology Application and Video Production. Click here to learn more about the program.
