Profiles of Tenacity: Sera Johnson
Profiles of Tenacity: Sera Johnson
Sera Johnson is a fourth-year entertainment and media studies major from Marietta, Georgia, set to graduate in the summer of 2025. Sera is also pursuing a certificate in New Media Studies, and minors in theatre and German. Her passion for theatre and film are reflected in her roles as the vice president of the Entertainment Media Industries Club and assistant stage manager for the UGA Department of Theatre.
Read her Q/A below.
Why did you choose your major?
I’ve always been involved in the arts and production. Initially, that was through theatre, but eventually, it developed into making films with my friends. I was in Dean Davis’ Career Exploration course where Grady alumni shared their perspectives and experiences. I really resonated with many of the EMST alumni and decided that the community that Grady has cultivated is the one I want to be a part of.
What does tenacity mean to you?
Tenacity means making things happen for yourself. I think it’s important to build your self-confidence through the sincerity, resolve and curiosity you approach every project with.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?
Don’t stay in a bubble! College is the time to meet people outside of your interests, and you only have 4 years to do that. Between my involvement in competitive sports, German, theatre, new media and the industries club, I have been able to cultivate a well-rounded education and network of friends.
What motivates you?
The people I get to work on projects with motivate me.
What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?
It’s really hard to narrow this down. The classes I took with Professors Wilson, Chess and Kohn have really pushed and challenged my understanding of filmmaking in this industry. Working alongside Dr. Bernabo, Dr. Hamilton and Timi Meade for Industry Club events and receiving guidance from them has been amazing. The New Media Institute has also been a supportive community through which I get to work on projects like TEDxUGA. Working on films with my peers has taught me about what it takes to be a filmmaker. I’m sure there are other people and things, but it all messily overlaps and culminates into the person I am today.
What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?
SO many things happened this past year! I was able to attend the Cannes Film Festival, which doesn’t even feel real even now. I am an assistant stage manager for my first UGA Theatre Department show. I’ve produced multiple short films with my talented friends.
Where’s your favorite place on campus and why?
I love north campus. I love the green space and fountains.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
Networking is hard. Getting involved and building your portfolio is the best way to get over that imposter syndrome which unfortunately takes time but can and will happen. I know it all feels so transactional and that other people are ahead, but literally who cares if you’re working towards something that makes you happy.
Editor: Lily Alarcon, lia52467@uga.edu