Author: Teddy DiGiacomo, Middle Creek High School Class of 2025
I was incredibly thankful for the opportunity to learn outside the classroom by attending a private panel discussion and screening of the new documentary, The American Revolution, with its creator Ken Burns.
Our trip to downtown Raleigh began at North Carolina Freedom Park, where we encountered impactful quotes that connected us—both literally and emotionally—to the history of our area through the voices of Black North Carolinians. Being able to walk around at my own pace and read what I wanted, when I wanted, was peaceful and powerful. I had the chance to sit and truly absorb each quote in the way the park’s designer, Phil Freelon, intended.
Afterward, we headed to the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, where I saw my classmates up on stage with Ken Burns—introducing and interviewing him—and it was incredible. It showed me what I, as a student, am capable of and what I can strive toward. Knowing that many of my peers are film students or hope to be, I could tell that Burns had a huge impact on them. He shared valuable advice, emphasizing the importance of trusting the process in both filmmaking and historical research, and acknowledging the inevitability of failure in creative work.
It was deeply inspiring to hear that even someone as accomplished as Ken Burns has moments of doubt and has had to start over at times. Even those of us not focused on filmmaking took something meaningful from his words. We all walked out feeling a little more secure in our paths. As I write this and make last-minute edits, I remind myself that Ken Burns does the same thing—and that gives me the confidence to keep going.
Seeing him and his work up close felt surreal. It was such a valuable experience for students like us. It brought both the film and Ken Burns down to earth, reminding us that he's not just a legendary filmmaker—he's a passionate artist whose level of mastery is achievable with dedication. His genuine enthusiasm for history and the filmmaking process came through in every detailed answer and heartfelt reflection. The experience gave his work a new sense of humanity and gave us hope for our own futures in the arts and history.
The trip also had a lasting impact on me personally. I feel more connected to my teacher and classmates, and I'm more comfortable engaging with my peers thanks to this shared experience. I’ve talked about it with classmates, friends, and family, and it's helped me form new perspectives on both the event and myself.
This opportunity gave me greater confidence in who I am, my understanding of history, and my ability to grow. I can’t imagine a better way to have spent my class time.