Student Spotlight: Rebekah Gonzalez

For immediate release — April 21, 2026

Rebekah Gonzalez, Dallas College video technology student, has a passion for visual storytelling that grew from early family videos. In this interview, she opens up about her inspirations, challenges and the people who helped her discover her path.

What’s your story that led you to where you are now at Dallas College? 

I took video classes in high school, but COVID hit during my sophomore year, which heavily impacted my learning experience since we couldn’t collaborate in person. My senior year, we returned in person, and the turning point for me was our high school film festival. I created a personal project, and we had a big screening. It felt like a red-carpet experience. That’s when I decided to pursue film in college.  

I was encouraged to go to a university, but I chose community college because it felt like the better option financially. I don’t regret that decision at all. I’ve met so many great people and expanded my network, and I’m still growing. My story is still going.

What was your film festival project about? 

The film was inspired by my dad. He used to follow me around with a camcorder when I was little, so we had all this footage of me growing up. The story reflects how I didn’t know what I wanted to do at the time, but in a way, he was already documenting and shaping that path for me.

How has your dad influenced your path? 

He didn’t work in video production, but he was always recording family moments. He also loves movies. That’s how we bonded, just watching and talking about films. When I was younger, he encouraged me to go into technology because it’s always evolving. I didn’t really know how to connect that with my artistic side at first, but eventually, I realized video was a way to combine both.

What challenges have you faced as a student? 

One of the biggest challenges has been being the only woman in many of my classes. It made it difficult at times to communicate and fully express myself.  

Eventually, I met Gabryella, who invited me to work on her film projects and really saw my potential. She encouraged me to step into the role of first assistant camera (first AC), which I had never done before. One memorable moment was when we were building a set together: a fort made of blankets and pillows. It reminded me of being a kid, and we spent hours working and talking about our lives. That experience made me feel like I truly belonged. She’s now one of my closest friends, and she opened the door for so many opportunities. 

For those unfamiliar, what does a first AC do? 

A first AC is part of the camera department. They help build and manage the camera rig — whether it’s on a tripod, gimbal, crane or shoulder mount. We handle lenses, maintain equipment, ensure safety and communicate constantly with the team. One of the biggest responsibilities is focus pulling, which means keeping the subject in sharp focus during a shot.

Who has had the biggest impact on your journey at Dallas College? 

Greg Ruuska helped me build confidence and guided me when I was starting out. Sharie Vance allowed me to express myself creatively, and Alexis Diaz helped me grow through my work-study role. And my friend Gabby has been a huge influence — she believed in me and gave me opportunities that changed everything.

What legacy do you want to leave behind? 

I want people to feel like they can do anything they set their mind to. Keep your head up, take opportunities and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. That’s what got me to where I am now.

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