Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Helling
Hi Robert, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
There are many moments that could be considered the start of my film journey, but the one that truly stands out is when I committed to major in Film and Media Arts. In high school, I was unsure of my direction. The path of business school at a local college seemed easy and didn’t resonate with me. I had a love for making videos, and I thought, why not turn something I love into a career? That decision led me to the University of Utah, where my story truly began to take shape.
Although I valued my education, I realized early on that traditional classes weren’t where I thrived. My real growth happened outside the classroom, through internships and freelance work. During my sophomore year, I had the opportunity to intern with Utah Athletics, where I began to build my portfolio as a creative. This experience jumpstarted my career, leading to other internships and more freelance opportunities.
By the time I reached my senior year, I was interning with the Office of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Utah. This role allowed me to refine my creative style while running their social media. The experience was so impactful that, after graduation, I was offered a full-time position. Today, I’m proud to serve as the Digital Media Manager for the Office of Undergraduate Studies, continuing to pursue my passion for making videos.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve been fortunate that my journey has been relatively smooth, but like anyone, I’ve faced challenges along the way. The creative industry can be tough, especially when it comes to getting paid what you’re truly worth. This was one of my biggest struggles. To support my passion for film, I worked various jobs, from handling packages in a warehouse to working on the sales floor of a retail store. These jobs weren’t glamorous, but they allowed me to continue pursuing my career.
I took on projects that paid far less than I deserved. While it was frustrating at times, these gigs were important in launching my career. They helped me build a strong portfolio and expand my network, which ultimately opened doors to bigger opportunities. Those early struggles were part of the process, and looking back, they played a crucial role in getting me to where I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in creating social media content, with a focus on producing high-quality videos that capture attention and engage audiences. What sets me apart is my attention to detail and my drive to transform even the most ordinary events into compelling visual stories. I’m particularly proud of the work I’ve done with the University of Utah. One of my favorite projects was a video I created for the Air Force ROTC, capturing their powerful tribute on 9/11 as they climbed the stairs in Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.roberthelling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robert.helling/
