Focus on Immigration
Host Jacquie Moore is joined by two young immigrants, Oleksandr Podolyanchuk and Octavio Cadenas, both currently enrolled in the School of Communication and Media, who share their experiences of starting a new life in the United States.
Podolyanchuk shares home footage from family back in the Ukraine during moments of war and turmoil, and also opens up about his experience of living in the United States illegally for 12 years before being granted citizenship.
“Common Ground”
TVDM 455: Narrative
“Common Ground” is an original drama written by David Dalton and performed and produced by Montclair State students. The scene explores the confrontational nature that many immigrants – legal, documented and undocumented – face in daily encounters with other citizens. See how the conflict is resolved when a police officer challenges an apparent undocumented alien only to find that they stand on common ground.
Student Views
Immigrants Read Mean Tweets
Mary Alex, a senior majoring in TV and digital media production, takes on some of the sharper edges of today’s discourse on immigration in a short BuzzFeed-style video featuring classmates from around the globe reacting to xenophobic tweets. The piece is digestible and even upbeat in tackling an ugly topic.
Christine Mayorga
TVDM 255: Immigration Story
MSU Soccer player Christine Mayorga traveled from Ecuador with her mother as a toddler. Soccer became a way for her to connect with other children and adapt to her new home. Thru MSU she’s started a path with the NCAA that few have a chance to explore. Produced by Kylie Mocarski, Gabby Tancredi and Jason Kunzman for TVDM255 Sports Features.
Octavio Cadenas
TVDM 255: Immigration Story
MSU student Octavio Cadenas came from Venezuela as a teenager, fleeing unrest and violence. He sees soccer as the universal language that has helped him make friends and connect with others. Produce by Cristian Inga, George Jamgochian and Elizabeth Moyeno for TVDM255 Sports Features.
Alfredo Rodriguez
TVDM 255: Immigration Story
Former MSU students CPL Alfredo Garcia Rodriguez and Lance CPL Babee Medina N. Garcia found each other in the US Marines and haven’t parted since. CPL Rodriguez joined the military after immigrating to the US from the Dominican Republic and has found a family and purpose serving his new country. Produced by Kelani Anastasi, Brynn McDonald and Matt Mesgleski for TVDM255 Sports Features.
Lia Stamile
TVDM 255: Immigration Story
MSU Softball player Lia Stamile was adopted from China as a baby. While she tried to stay true to her Chinese roots, her American culture and MSU family play a significant role. Produced by Justin Epifanio and Taylor Pietrangelo for TVDM255 Sports Features.