Social Sciences Student has Sights Set on Getting into Film Making

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Ms Kimberley Allenspach graduated with a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree but is now keen to pursue a career in the TV and movie industry.

‘I am proud of my accomplishment and excited about what the future holds and how much more I can achieve,’ she said.

But it has been no easy journey for Allenspach.

Her difficulties began when she lost her father in 2004. ‘He was the breadwinner. His loss was emotionally and financially devastating with the result being that my mother could no longer afford to look after me.’

Allenspach was sent to live with her grandmother who supported her through a meagre pension but it eventually become too difficult and she was taken in by another family.

‘I was unofficially adopted by them and they have since been my providers and a strong system of support. They are now pensioners and it is harder for them to provide but they do their best with what little they have.

‘I hope I succeed in life one day so I can show them how grateful I am for all they do for me, as if I were their own,’ she explained.

Through help from the College of Humanities professional staff, Allenspach managed to get into residence on campus and then received funding from NSFAS, before winning UKZN bursaries for academic excellence.

Allenspach decided to do her Bachelor in Social Sciences degree believing it would help her develop analytical thinking and communication skills which are essential especially in the field of Media and Cultural Studies.

She has since discovered a love for film and the film-making process and wants to eventually work in the industry. She is currently completing an Honours Degree in Media and Cultural Studies, specialising in Film. ‘I would like to work in television programming and broadcasting as well as in production and editing in the film industry.’

Her advice to other undergraduate students is to balance their studies and their fun times. ‘Some people become so taken with the freedom we enjoy on campus that they forget what the purpose of being here is. Students should not lose track of the importance of dedication to their work and completion of their degrees. This can open doors for them.’

Melissa Mungroo