Career-focused. That’s the phrase that brought Film and Moving Image (FMI) major Kai Cady to Stevenson University.
“What I really wanted from my college was a focus on careers after graduation and student support,” Kai said. “I chose Stevenson University and its Film and Moving Image program because both are career-oriented.”
Finding His Place in the Film Program
After transferring to Stevenson, Kai wasted no time getting involved in Stevenson’s FMI program and the film community at Stevenson.
His program’s small class sizes allowed Kai to quickly build connections with his classmates and the FMI faculty while learning the art of filmmaking.
“At Stevenson, I gained experience with gear and production techniques through classes like Cinematography: Color, Documentary/Promo, Narrative Production, and my capstone class,” Kai said.
In addition to his courses, Kai worked on other students’ films and joined Stevenson’s FMI Club. His documentary, Josef, won “Best Documentary” at the club’s 2025 FMI Awards—an annual event that recognizes films made by Stevenson students during the preceding academic year.
Discovering a Passion for Production Design
Before college, Kai was torn between studying film or architecture. Even after deciding to pursue his film studies at Stevenson, Kai still had a strong interest in architecture. Eventually, he found a role that combined both interests: art directing and production design.
“My interest in architecture directed me towards working in the art department in film,” Kai said. “There, I’m able to connect and apply elements of architecture and building to film.”
Building the Foundation for a Film Career
Through Stevenson’s Career Connection Center and the connections Stevenson’s FMI faculty have with filmmakers and the film industry in Baltimore and beyond, Kai has been able to participate in and complete multiple internships.
“Stevenson’s resources helped me find internships with established filmmakers to enhance my knowledge of film production and build my network,” Kai said. “I’ve completed several internships, doing everything from working on film productions to film festivals. Recently, I worked as an Art Director, which really elevated my art skills and abilities to work in a higher position.”
The hands-on learning in his internships have complemented his classroom education and prepared Kai to enter the film industry with confidence, connections, and real work experience.
“Stevenson has helped me achieve my career goals,” Kai said. “I recommend Stevenson University to film students—and any other student—because of the education and the career support it provides.”
