Blog posting by Karly Placek, Documentary Studies and Production '15, FLEFF Social Media Manager, Monroe, Wisconsin 

The countdown is on. We are a little over a month away from FLEFF and the excitement among the blogging staff is palpable. 

Working as a Social Media Manager this year constantly keeps me on my toes. I'm always learning more about the personalities and passions of my fellow bloggers and my admiration for the team grows with each day. While we've only assembled as a team about two months ago, the feats we've accomplished and the bond we've created as a micro-community are truly remarkable. 

Our journey hasn't been easy. We've faced a few roadblocks with our flash mob strategies. In the beginning of the semester, we determined that many small, on-the-fly flash mobs would be effective in getting the word out about FLEFF. Theories often differ from practice. Upon hitting the streets and assembling for flash mobs, we discovered that careful planning and a larger amount of flash mob participants would actually be more beneficial. Spreading information on the streets via word of mouth does indeed work, but large, organized group events can work wonders. I've always believed that success is comprised of one part knowledge and two parts mistake. We've made some mistakes but we've learned immensely from them. We now have an arsenal of surprises for the public - so watch out! 

As the festival draws closer, I'm eager to see how the blogging staff and intern staff will collaborate together. On March 3rd, the entire staff's skills will be put to the test as we attend the Upstate Filmmakers Showcase  at downtown Ithaca's premiere movie theater,Cinemapolis. I hope all of the interns engage with other audience members and take advantage of the intellectually stimulating conversation that will take place. I have faith in the passion of my fellow interns and am expecting the showcase to be a moving experience! 

The road to come on our FLEFF 2013 adventure is sure to be bumpy - but our staff knows how to enjoy the ride. What are you eager to see the FLEFF interns overcome this year?