From Code to Camera: How Ash Xu Paved Her Own Path to Success
Growing up in the Bay Area, Ash Xu was always drawn to the world of technology. Her dad, a software engineer, inspired her to follow in his footsteps. However, fate had other plans. Today, at just 22, Xu has directed her first TV commercial, defying expectations and forging her own path.
Discovering Her Passion
Xu’s journey into film began in middle school, where she devoured YouTube and Buzzfeed videos. What started as a hobby soon turned into a passion project. After taking an advanced placement computer science class in high school, she realized her heart wasn’t in coding. Instead, she redirected her energy into making short films with friends.
The Power of Online Presence
During the pandemic, Xu started posting her own videos online, showcasing her creativity to the world. Her big break came in 2020 when she landed her first paid gig, filming a commercial for an online brand. The $400 paycheck was a turning point, proving that she could monetize her passion.
Viral Success and New Opportunities
Xu’s stylized videos on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube quickly went viral, catching the attention of Taco Bell. In September, the fast-food chain reached out, offering her a chance to write a concept for a commercial. If they liked it, they’d pay her to film it too. With her management team’s help, Xu negotiated her rates and got to work.
Directing Her First Commercial
The experience was a game-changer. Xu directed a team of six people, including a food stylist and marketing managers, for the first time. The commercial debuted in November, giving her a confidence boost and teaching her a valuable lesson: you don’t have to be perfect to be qualified for a job.
Embracing Imperfection
Xu’s film school days were marked by self-doubt, thinking she needed to be a genius or prodigy to land her first directing gig. However, her TV commercial directing debut proved otherwise. “I don’t have to be the most knowledgeable or perfect person in the room,” she says. “As long as I trust my own creative process and can convey it to the people around me, I’m worthy of the projects that I’ve been working on.”
Success is a Mix of Experience, Vision, and Marketing
Xu’s journey is a testament to the power of combining experience, creative vision, and self-marketing. She believes that everyone has something to offer, regardless of their background or skills. By embracing her imperfections and trusting her instincts, Xu has paved her own path to success, inspiring others to do the same.
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