In this flagship series, we’re highlighting graduating University of Iowa students who have woven writing into their academic journeys across disciplines. Through these interviews, these exceptional students show how pairing writing with any major strengthens thinking, communication, and impact. At Iowa, our commitment to writing across the disciplines sets us apart, ensuring students in every field can develop this essential skill and carry it into whatever comes next!
Today we are featuring Abril Garcia Rojas, graduating with a BFA in Cinematic Arts from College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Abril Garcia Rojas is an independent filmmaker based in Iowa City and a third-year student at the University of Iowa, where she studies Cinematography and Screenwriting with a minor in Theatre. Her experimental short Vanity of my Pith (2025) screened at Bijou Open Screen and received the ICDOCS Experimental/Nonfiction Award, reflecting her focus on experimental cinema. She is actively involved in the campus film community as President of the Cinematic Arts Student Organization and a member of the Bijou Film Board.
In a few short sentences, tell us how writing impacted your time here at the University of Iowa?
Writing helped me establish what type of person I was and who I wanted to be, there is so much that you can learn about yourself within your writing.
What was one of your favorite classes or activities related to writing?
I loved screenwriting, and I think it was the most useful thing I learned to do.
What advice would you give to incoming students about writing at Iowa?
Find your voice and don't be scared to let it shine in your work.
What are your plans for post-graduation? Any projects, continued studies, or exciting work news we can share??
My plan is to move to New York City to start working as a Production Assistant on Broadway or TV Show sets as well as working in the post-production industry as a video editor or colorist.
Find Abril online!
Instagram: @byabril.mov
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abril-garcia-rojas-1b3380301