Jonelle Symonies
Flourishing filmmaker: Jonelle Symonies' story
For Jonelle Symonies, the moment she stepped onto Marywood’s campus, she knew it was the right place for her. “Marywood stood out to me because, from the first moment I stepped on campus, I felt like I was part of a family,” she shared. “I loved the tight-knit atmosphere and how everyone seemed so friendly.”
That sense of belonging has only grown stronger throughout her journey. Supported by the Presidential Scholarship, Jonelle has flourished academically and creatively—without the added stress of financial instability. “It’s given me the opportunity to attend Marywood and focus on
building the future I want,” she said.
Jonelle’s list of accomplishments is already impressive. She is the creator and director of Marywood Films, where she channels her passion for storytelling into original student productions. Her leadership experience includes serving as a Team Leader and Orientation Leader, helping new students feel the same welcome she once received. She's also the Music Director and DJ at 91.7 VMFM, the university’s student-run radio station.
When asked what the greatest lesson she’s learned is, Jonelle answered without hesitation, “Get involved—it’s the easiest way to make lifelong friends.” Marywood has empowered Jonelle through opportunities to lead, collaborate, and create, giving her the confidence and skills to pursue her dream of working in the entertainment industry. In five years, she sees herself writing and directing her own films, and she knows that the hands-on experience she’s gaining now is laying the groundwork for that dream.
“If I could thank Marywood’s donors, I’d tell them about the incredible feeling I’ll never forget—the first time I held a professional-grade camera in my hands,” she said. “Because of their support, I get to learn and create with top-quality equipment without the financial burden.
That kind of access changes everything.” Looking ahead to Commencement, Jonelle knows it’ll be a moment of pride and reflection.
“When I walk across the stage, I’ll feel proud of what I was able to accomplish during my time at Marywood.”