HCC Northwest Underground Film and Events Club proves invaluable

HOUSTON, TX (February 15, 2008) – While many may partake in the diverse and acclaimed speakers and films presented by the Pandora’s Box Speaker and Film Series, few recognize the behind-the-scenes operation of the Underground Film and Events Club (UFEC) who host Pandora’s Box. This mix of students works in conjunction with faculty at Northwest College to assemble a series of speakers and films which challenge assumptions and seek out injustices.

“[Pandora’s Box] will broaden your perspectives. The films and speakers open you up to what is happening in the world,” student and club member Lisa Nakayama said.

In addition to the films shown during the Pandora’s Box Speaker and Film Series, the UFEC present their own films which show on Fridays at the Westgate Campus. With over 22 active members, it is a growing group with several exceptionally bright students. Many of the students participating have found their experience to be an eye-opening one. Javier Hernandez, an HCC student, reflects on his involvement with the organization and how it has impacted him.

“You can experience foreign cultures through other people’s eyes. Very simple films can have a profound effect. When you see a speaker, you also see their personal experience, the life they live, and all of the different possibilities,” he said.

The UFEC is advised by two dedicated faculty members, Professor Michael Ronan and Librarian Cindy Belmar. Both Ronan and Belmar have seen the immense surge of student excitement in something more than classroom instruction. Belmar enjoys conversations students have about a Pandora’s Box or UFEC topic outside of the event itself. Additionally, she delights in seeing the connections students have made with each other.

Ronan adds that the personal enrichment students receive from watching a speaker or film makes the events that much more appealing.

“It is a great experience working with bright and enthusiastic students who want to make a difference and do something larger than just going to school, and my ability to do something larger than just teaching,” Ronan said.

While the club provides informational films and speakers about controversial topics such as the War in Iraq, modern day slave trading, and animal abuse, it also acts as a social network apparatus for students. Many of the students may meet because they share an interest in informing others and learning more about different cultures and societies. Being a member of the UFEC has proved very beneficial to Tunggul Sitindjak, an international student from Indonesia.

“The films open a new area of discussion for me. When there is an international topic, I can learn more because the films may trace the origins of many things happening in the world,” he said.

He and others involved note the importance of sharing information with others about what is occurring in the world. UFEC President Daniel Machado, indicated that Pandora’s Box is very important because it opens people’s minds, and it is important to know what is happening in this country and abroad.

The UFEC and Pandora’s Box serve a vital role at HCC-Northwest, disclosing alternative perspectives and introducing new concepts to an at times otherwise uninformed student body. It also serves as a conduit for passionate learning and friendships to flourish. For more information on the organization, contact Michael Ronan at 713-718-5750 or email michael.ronan@hccs.edu. Visit Pandora’s Box online at nwc.hccs.edu/box.