Profiles of Tenacity: Timi Meade

Third-year EMST student Timi Meade values the friends and connections she’s made during her time at Grady and encourages students to get involved and meet people in the industry.

Why did you choose your major?

I chose EMST because I wanted to channel my creative inner child. After years of focusing primarily on STEM or business classes, I had neglected my artistic inclinations. EMST presented an exciting opportunity to push myself to produce unique and original work.

What does tenacity mean to you?

Tenacity is attending that club meeting you just discovered, rather than going home for a nap after your late exam. It’s seizing those fleeting five-minute breaks between classes to draft that crucial email instead of procrastinating. Above all, tenacity is recognizing that your present self may crave laziness, but planting seeds for your future self regardless.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?

You can’t mess up what is meant for you! I’ve always felt burdened by the potential mistakes I can make as a young professional. College is the first time many of us are entering the corporate world, and it can feel like every move directly impacts our future. This simple mantra reminds me that everything will unfold the way it is supposed to, regardless of any missteps I make.

What is your most memorable Grady experience?

My most memorable Grady experience attending the Cannes Film Festival last summer. It felt like a sneak peek into my dream career, a tantalizing glimpse of what could be. I remind myself that if I could attend such a prestigious event at the age of 20, there’s no reason why I can’t return in the near future. Each photograph from that trip motivates me to relentlessly network and pursue my career aspirations.

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

During my time at UGA, three individuals stand out for their profound impact: Cate and Aleesa de Castro, and Dr. Dodie Cantrell. These remarkable women have opened numerous doors for me, and I am continuously inspired to emulate their qualities. Whenever I encounter moments of doubt, I repeat a simple mantra: WWTTADD? It’s shorthand for “What would the twins and Dodie do?” Knowing their fearless approach, I’m motivated to dive headfirst into every challenge that comes my way.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’ve always struggled with an answer to this question. It reminds me of Sylvia Plath’s fig tree metaphor in “The Bell Jar” where the speaker is paralyzed by the different lives she can pursue. I envision myself as a director for live television, yet I’m equally drawn to directing music videos. I envision myself taking the subway in New York City, but I’m also drawn to surfing in Los Angeles. Right now, I love my classes and my professors deeply. In five years, I can only hope that the same level of fulfillment awaits me.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

“Plant more seeds!” By attending club meetings, participating in film sets, and consistently showing up for Newsource, I laid the groundwork for strong connections within the Grady community. As I progressed into my sophomore and junior years, I discovered that these efforts paid off. People were quick to vouch for me, opening doors to various opportunities, like the Cannes Film Festival and Grady Ambassadors.

Editor: Morgan Jones | morgan.jones2@uga.edu