Andrew Laurendi is a filmmaking student at the Los Angeles Film School working to gain skills in areas such as cinematography, casting, production design, screenwriting, color, and editing. Also adept in location scouting, photography, and lighting, his present studies build on BFA studies in film at Long Island University’s Post Campus. Andrew Laurendi also attended Nassau Community College, completing coursework in communications.
Mr. Laurendi’s professional background includes a past role as a cashier with Whole Foods in Massapequa, New York. Representing the company in a public-facing role, he manned the checkout process, answered customer questions, and assisted with the selection and location of products throughout the store. He resolved complaints and ensured that exchanges and refunds were processed promptly. Mr. Laurendi also made sure the checkout and bagging area was always clean, tidy, and properly stocked.
Andrew Laurendi excelled in academics as a student at Iris Wolfson High School in Greenvale. He served as class president and reported morning announcements via public address system every morning. His interests include mental health awareness and working out in the gym.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My day typically starts with getting prepared for what I have scheduled. Then going to the gym and doing schoolwork while managing in-between time with friends, family, and social events.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Any idea I have that can be made into a film, I start writing treatments and screenwrite. Any story that I feel will have potential, I then use the index card method and use the three-act structure throughout the screenplay.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Gen-Z on TikTok for our unique humor and advocacy on mental health. The Gen-Z generation is about making change, and that is what can bring hope to all.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit of mine would be time management. Doing time management helps me keep everything organized and makes every day go smoothly.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would say be mind-driven and setting goals. To never give up and keep going and find your joy that will make you happy for the rest of your life.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe the Moon landing was fake. While it was a long time ago, I still see some red flags with the whole mission.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Self-care and practice mindfulness. Self-care will help you take a break from reality and give you the feeling of enjoyment you deserve, while practicing mindfulness during self-care will keep you in the moment and relaxed.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When overwhelmed, I listen to music. Doing this takes any worries away I have currently going on.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
One strategy is to studying hard in your studies, so you will be prepared and successful in your career. For me, an example is filmmaking; I practice shooting, editing, and writing projects one at a time.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One failure was not doing so well academically in some of my college classes. However, I studied more and more and always showed up to give it my best.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Video editing software Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. I use both for post-production for my short films and edit, color grade, and mix audio.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
Wicked is an amazing story with a very nice message. It teaches you to accept who you are and embrace individuality.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently watched The Incredibles, and it’s my favorite Disney movie. I enjoyed this movie for its amazing humor, which the characters possess, especially considering it’s an animation.
Key learnings
- Learn to accept yourself, love yourself, and inspire others.
- Set goals early in life and never give up on finding happiness.
- Diligent study, regular skill practice, and work hard will help your dreams come true.
- Don’t neglect mental health; make self-care and practicing mindfulness a priority.