From Film to Pharmacy: Creating Community

Nathaniel Thomas, MBA, office manager for UMSOP’s Experiential Learning Program (ELP), is a freelance cinematographer and filmmaker who sees the arts as a way to inspire and bring people together. He is a member of the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s (UMB) Council for the Arts and Culture.

How do your experiences as a cinematographer and filmmaker influence your work in the ELP?

My background in cinematography and filmmaking really shapes how I approach working in experiential learning. Filmmaking is a hands-on process; you learn by doing, problem-solving, and working with others, and that’s also what experiential learning is all about.

Filmmaking and cinematography have taught me that people grow and learn the most when they’re involved in the process – trying new things, making mistakes, and figuring out what works and what does not. I try to bring that same mindset to my work with our pharmacy students – giving them space to experiment, to share opinions and feedback, and reflect on what they’ve learned. This helps to create more experiential learning opportunities for them.

It has also helped me appreciate different perspectives. Just like every film or story can be told in different ways, every student sees and experiences things differently. I like creating opportunities where the students can share those unique viewpoints and learn from each other, and at the same time I’m able to learn from them.

Do you find any similarities between storytelling through film and your work supporting pharmacy students?

Storytelling and working with pharmacy students have a lot in common. In filmmaking, you’re always thinking about how to connect with people, create meaning, and guide people through an experience. It’s the same working with pharmacy students.

With students it’s about helping them shape their own story. I do this by helping them navigate their career goals – reflecting on where they’ve been, where they’re going, and how each experience can add to their professional journey. Just like in filmmaking, there’s structure, growth, and reflection. Both also involve active listening, empathy, and helping people see the bigger picture.

What types of filmmaking have you been involved in? Does any project stand out particularly?

I’ve been involved in a wide range of filmmaking, including corporate projects, short films, commercials, mini-documentaries, and even wedding films. I don’t have one single project that stands out as my absolute favorite – what I really love is the variety. Each project gives me a chance to grow, learn, and sharpen my craft. Every experience teaches me something new, whether it’s about creativity, collaboration, or problem-solving, and I really value that process.

How has being part of the Council for Arts and Culture influenced your perspective on community at UMB?

I am new to the Council for Arts and Culture and so far, it has shown me how connected the community at UMB is. The Council is not just about the arts – it’s about bringing people together, sharing ideas, and creating spaces where everyone feels included and inspired.

I have seen how collaboration and creativity can strengthen relationships across the campus, and it has made me appreciate the diverse ways people contribute to the UMB community. It is inspiring to see how small initiatives can bring people together.

What advice would you give to colleagues or students who want to explore their creativity but aren’t sure where to start?

There is no ideal way or perfect time to start. The important thing is to just start, even if you do not know exactly where to begin. Creativity is not about perfection – it’s about experimenting, trying new things, and learning as you go. Sometimes the most creative or innovative thing comes out of making mistakes and putting yourself out there.

Find something that catches your interest – whether it’s writing, filmmaking, drawing, or even just brainstorming ideas with others. Allow yourself to make mistakes and explore – that’s often where the best ideas are formed. Also, don’t be afraid to collaborate. Seeing different perspectives can really fuel your own creativity. I’ve learned so much from other creatives and it has helped me a lot in my own journey.

If you could film a story about UMSOP or UMB, what would its theme be?

If I could film a story about the School of Pharmacy and UMB, the theme would be community and collaboration. I would focus on how the students, faculty, and staff come together, support each other, and push boundaries to make a difference; whether it’s in research, patient care, or learning.