Luke Parrett, a filmmaking major from Oklahoma, chose Wichita State for its proximity to home and the hands-on learning offered at Shocker Studios. His time at WSU has been shaped by applied learning in nearly every class, preparing him to pursue gig work across the Midwest and build a career in the film industry.

Luke is one of more than 2,100 students eligible for spring 2025 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad. 

Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Arts, emphasis in filmmaking

Yukon, Oklahoma

Yukon High School

Wichita State's proximity to my hometown was a bonus, as well as the in-state tuition offered through the Shocker City Partnership program. But what really sealed the deal were the incredible resources, equipment and hands-on opportunities offered by Shocker Studios.

One of my biggest challenges as a student has been managing my time and keeping a healthy balance between work, school and life. I’ve learned to be more intentional with my schedule and make time for the things that keep me grounded — like staying connected with friends and taking breaks when I need them.

My degree is rooted in applied learning, so most of my classes have been hands-on. I’ve spent a lot of time learning the craft of filmmaking by actually doing the work — not just talking about it.

After graduation, I plan to take on gig work around the Midwest and build experience as I work my way up in the film industry.

People are awesome. Be connected. Stay involved. Keep friends close and reach out regularly.

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry-funded engineering R&D and No. 8 overall for engineering R&D.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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