ATLANTA—As fall approaches, the School of Film, Media & Theatre connected with one of our newest faculty members, Allison Schifani. We chatted about what drew Professor Schifani to our school, what she will be teaching this fall—and, of course, her favorite films.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, where you're joining us from and what drew you to the School of Film, Media & Theatre?
I’m joining the School of Film, Media & Theatre from the University of Miami, where I served as Associate Professor in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures. My work revolves around media, technology and the urban environment. Georgia State University drew me away from Miami with its combination of creative and scholarly focuses and FMT’s stellar faculty. Additionally, Atlanta is a dynamic and engaging place! For someone who thinks a lot about what a city is and could be, there are a handful of more compelling places now.
What courses will you be teaching this year?
I will be teaching a graduate seminar in Latin American Cinema and an undergrad course in Media Theory—both in the Fall. Not sure yet what the Spring semester will bring!
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I learn so much from my students. A classroom full of people from differing backgrounds and experiences is an exciting place to be. There is little better in the world than seeing something you think you know in a new way—it's enchanting!
What’s one thing students might be surprised to learn about you?
My partner and I have a small farm in Appalachia. No chickens or cows or horses: just two humans and four cats. We mostly just let the hay grow—but our tomatoes are transcendent.
What film\TV show are you currently enjoying the most?
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: now and forever.