2010 BCCHS graduate David Romani has always been one to think outside of the box and use his creativity. After leaving Bishop Carroll, David attended UPJ and attained a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Accounting. He then attended the Miami Ad School at FIU and has a graduate degree in Writing.
David’s career has taken him all over the country. He says, “From Cinderella Castle to New York skyscrapers, I’ve worked on a wide array of brands and experiences throughout my career with clients such as Disney, the NFL, Walmart, and more.” He was writing in the creative advertising industry, which has taken him from Miami to New York, then Orlando, and most recently Phoenix, before moving home to Cambria County. He has also done script work with Michael Buble and was working for Disney’s in-house creative team as a writer, where he fell in love with storytelling. He has now started his own company, Patch Animation, with two partners. They operate on a remote basis as a full-service animation studio.
David says that Patch has been something that he has been working on for a long time. He adds, “As creators, it is important for us to be authentic and share stories with fresh, real perspectives. As people, giving back is even more important. We saw Patch as an opportunity to create something that is inherently different. Storytelling, but more so animations, has a unique way of making sensitive subject matter approachable and universally relevant. We hope that Patch becomes a doorway of hope for those that need it.”
His years at Bishop Carroll did much to prepare David for his life path. “BC has taught me a number of life lessons that I still use today, but one worth noting is having faith. I would not be where I am today without my faith. BC’s soccer program and staff were a major part of my growth during my days on Husky Hill, but having faith was at its core. I will always be grateful for my time at BC, not to mention the lifelong relationships that it gifted me.”
He hopes to make an impact on the world and to help others. “Whether that be through inspirational, empowering content, benefitting philanthropic causes, or just a moment of Zen through entertainment.” He adds that while helping is very internally rewarding, it is also a great way to get to know one’s community. “It not only grows the community, but the opportunity for those within it. Giving back is something that was instilled in me as a child and that flame only burns stronger as I get older.”
David advises all of our students, “Once you figure out what you want in this life, go all in on it. If it doesn’t scare you, it’s probably not worth it. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, begin at the doorstep of fear. Everything that you need is on the other side of it. However, there is no secret to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure. I’m a prime example that anything is possible. Growing up, I wasn’t the smartest kid in class, or the strongest writer, though I loved stories and making people feel something, which in turn drove me to practice and find the right education and tools to help me grow. The creative industry is a beautiful place, but it is competitive. Lastly, always be kind. It sounds like general advice, but I promise you, your attitude will speak for you long before they ever see your work. Good luck out there and keep shining!”
Congratulations to David and all of his success. For more information on Patch Animation, and how to help the cause, please visit http://patchanimation.com/.