Today@Sam Article

Commencement Spotlight: Christian Hockless

May 21, 2020
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

“Commencement Spotlight” is a series focused on highlighting SHSU graduates who have made remarkable strides in their lives to reach commencement day. These stories from Bearkats graduating this month, who have demonstrated a “can-do” spirit through challenges and service, remind us of the many ways Sam Houston State University is preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Visit today@sam/commencementspotlight to find the list of stories highlighted so far.


Christian Hockless3

Christian Hockless          
Humble, Texas  
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & TV Production     

“Learning more about myself has really helped me understand my work ethic and transformation from a kid with ideas, but was too self-conscious and insecure, to someone who speaks up as a leader.”

What challenges did you face to complete your college degree?
CH: Figuring out who I was as a person (individually, as well as collectively with a team) was a challenge. Sometimes, having to put the team on my shoulders to ultimately create something that I’d be proud of, was also difficult. I think this helped me become the creative, self-made individual I believe myself to be.

I’ve learned all aspects of production, which has helped me go on my own and create my own content, so that I could have a platform to showcase my talents and skills with future employers. Working on some of my own projects completely by myself has helped me to become familiar with the entire process, so when it comes to working with a team it makes for an easier shoot.

Christian Hockless smWhat are your future career goals?
CH: Currently, I am interning at The Ark Church in Huntsville. For my future, I want to be an actor and be able to produce and act in my own films.

The saying “don’t wait for opportunity, create it,” is valuable to me. Having learned all aspects of production and can create my own opportunities, then who knows where that could take me and who I’ll be working for one day. The answer is—with and for myself.

What will you miss most about your time as an SHSU student?
CH: I will miss the relationships that I’ve created and being surrounded by others with similar interests and creative mindsets, people who I’ve shared the greatest memories in college with. They are the ones who’ve helped me to see different perspectives and become the person I am today.  

See more Commencement Spotlight features.          

- END -

This page maintained by SHSU's Communications Office:

Director of Content Communications: Emily Binetti

Asst. Director Content & Social Media: Emilee White

Communications Manager: Mikah Boyd
Telephone: 936.294.1837

Communications Specialist: Campbell Atkins
Telephone: 936.294.2638

Please send comments, corrections, news tips to Today@Sam.edu