While many aspire to follow a linear career path, life’s twists and turns often lead us to unexpected destinations. This is particularly true for Ashley Kennedy, a senior staff instructor at LinkedIn Learning and a prominent figure in media education. Her story, detailed in the TV Matters podcast, is a captivating narrative of unanticipated opportunities, adaptability, and a deep-seated passion for storytelling.
This blog post expands on the comprehensive coverage from EditMentor.com, offering additional insights and a link to the complete podcast interview.
A Budding Passion for Storytelling
Ashley’s love for crafting stories began in her hometown, eventually steering her towards broadcast journalism in college. However, she soon discovered a greater affinity for more intricate narratives, leading her to pursue an MFA in film. During her graduate studies, Ashley stumbled upon an unexpected passion – teaching. Serving as a teaching assistant for television production classes sparked a joy she hadn’t foreseen.
A Detour that Shaped Her Expertise
With her film degree and newfound enthusiasm for education, Ashley set her sights on a career in documentary film editing. Yet, fate had other plans. A technical editing instructor role at Avid Technologies wasn’t part of her original vision, but Ashley’s adaptability allowed her to thrive. This unexpected role turned into a significant learning experience. She not only mastered Avid systems but also excelled as a video editing instructor, eventually leading certification programs for experienced editors around the globe.
The Rewards of Witnessing Growth
In 2008, another twist came with a layoff from Avid. However, this setback became a stepping stone. Ashley quickly transitioned to a teaching position at Columbia College Chicago, where she taught core video production courses and developed advanced Avid editing programs. Seeing her students grow and flourish in their academic journeys brought Ashley immense satisfaction.
Embracing the Rise of Online Education
As education evolved, so did Ashley’s teaching methods. While at Columbia, she ventured into online education, creating video tutorials for Lynda.com (now LinkedIn Learning). This marked the start of her journey in blending traditional classroom teaching with online learning. Ashley recognizes the challenge of creating personal connections in online tutorials compared to physical classrooms. To overcome this, she focuses on conveying warmth, empathy, and genuine understanding through her voice.
An Inspiration in the Changing Landscape of Education
Ashley’s journey underscores the importance of adaptability and diverse skills in the dynamic field of media education. Her story, driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to connecting with students both online and offline, serves as an inspiration. For a deeper dive into Ashley’s remarkable journey, listen to the full podcast interview.
