The University of North Texas (UNT) students recently attended the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), gaining valuable insights into the film industry through an opportunity provided by UNT’s Study Abroad Office. This visit was part of a Global Intensive Opportunity (GIO) program co-developed by professors Jennifer Gómez Menjívar and Courtney Brannon Donoghue.
TIFF is renowned as the largest film festival in North America and is celebrated globally for hosting a myriad of industry-centric events, including film screenings, panels, special events, and appearances from celebrity actors and directors.
Event Details
- Location: Downtown Toronto
- Part of: UNT GIO Program through the UNT Study Abroad Office
- Features: Exclusive film screenings, panels, master classes, and red-carpet events
During their weeklong stay, students accessed exclusive screenings and participated in industry panels and red-carpet events, which enabled them to bridge the gap between academic theories and industry practices. The experience was designed to encourage students to engage actively with the film industry and complete a curated programming itinerary, capped by a reflection essay on their learning.
Brannon Donoghue highlighted that a key objective was to immerse students in a professional environment, allowing them to understand and explore their place within the industry landscape. “We want them to figure out where they fit into this landscape,” she noted, emphasizing the value of professional communication and self-discovery.
Charlie Mangan, a master’s student at UNT, underscored the significance of the trip in uncovering new areas of research interest within film festivals, which could potentially influence his future academic pursuits. Meanwhile, Ryn Taylor, a senior media arts student, found the experience pivotal in clarifying her career aspirations in the film industry.
For more information on UNT’s study abroad programs, visit the University of North Texas website or contact the UNT Study Abroad Office.