The American Film Market (AFM) took over Las Vegas last week, bringing five whirlwind days of film marketing, sales, and distribution know-how. It was a total crash course in the behind-the-scenes magic of moviemaking, with plenty of screenings and industry pros sharing their secrets. Scattered throughout the event were CSN Videography & Film student workers, soaking it all in and getting a front-row seat to how the film world really works.

One big highlight? Seeing Arianna Martinez continue her streak of success. Fresh off winning Best Film at the CSN Short Film Showcase (and snagging over $5,000 in prizes), she was at AFM as an associate producer on the film Being Adolph Gasser. Oh, and did we mention she’s also rocking three Student Production Emmy Awards? Yeah, she’s kind of a big deal.

Professor John Aliano from CSN’s Videography & Film Program was there too, and he had the perfect take on the whole experience. “It was amazing to see so many familiar faces—past students, teachers, and new ones,” he said. “There’s so much to learn in this world, and it was inspiring to have a laugh, open a fortune cookie, and see the words ‘Make your dreams a reality.’ That’s filmmaking in a nutshell.”

AFM is one of those events where dreams and reality start to blur—perfect for anyone trying to make their mark in movies. With CSN students and faculty front and center, it’s clear the college is the real deal when it comes to preparing future filmmakers.

Here’s to making those dreams a reality—one film at a time!