Briana Snyder

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I was lucky to attend Sinclair during high school, starting at 16, as a PSEO student. I didn't know what I would eventually major in when I started at Sinclair, so I felt very lucky to have the opportunity to try out different classes and see what I liked. Having the opportunity to get a jumpstart on college credits allowed me to graduate with my Bachelors in three years when I went to the University of Dayton. I also took classes online at Sinclair to earn credits during the summer, and to take an elective that wasn't offered at UD.

Now, I co-own Knack Video + Photo with my partner Max Spang, where we provide photo and video production services to businesses and nonprofit organizations in Dayton and the surrounding region.

What inspired you to pursue your career path, and how did Sinclair help you get there?

I can trace my two-decade career in photo and video production back to my very first darkroom photography class at Sinclair! After high school, I started working in a mall portrait studio. While I ultimately ended up studying in a different field for my undergrad and Master's, I found my way back to photography. I photographed weddings and portraits for many years, before founding Knack. Taking photography at Sinclair was my first window into the idea that this artform and hobby that I loved could eventually be my profession.

How would you describe the impact Sinclair had on your life, both in and out of the classroom?

In addition to the huge benefit of having college credits completed before graduating high school, I also got to meet so many different people. My high school was relatively small and homogeneous, but my time at Sinclair allowed me to cross paths with students of all ages and backgrounds and expand my worldview. I was able to head into my next chapter with a much broader perspective of the world.

How has your definition of success changed from when you were a Sinclair student to now?

As a student, I was very academically focused, and success only meant getting top grades, best internships and the highest honors. While I still focus on doing the best work possible in any given circumstance, I've learned that success can also be measured in the relationships and connections we make along the way. I'm grateful for all of the opportunities I have to mentor others, volunteer and serve on boards, and make valuable connections and referrals to help others.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to current Sinclair students?

Enjoy your time! As eager as you might feel to get through school and onto your next phase, the opportunity to meetpeople, explore different interests, and learn about yourself in the process is invaluable. When I was taking college classes during high school, all I wanted to do was check the boxes, to get through school as quickly and efficiently as possible and move on to 'real life' (whatever that would be!). Now, I see the value in enjoying where you are and making connections with those around you - they could end up being life-long connections! The journey is just as important as the destination.