Roman Dent, 2012, is one of William and Mary’s finest gentlemen. Roman is a film studies major, and his most recent endeavors include directing a music video (below) for Dustin Tavella’s hot new song “Forget About Me” which released on Monday on iTunes. Ladies, you will love the story in this video. And guys, watch closely– you may learn a few things!
Make sure to check out our interview with the creative mastermind behind the camera. Ladies, he happens to be single, and I’m betting he would give you the best movie date of your life.
1. What are you involved in on campus?
I stay pretty busy with my classes, friends, and various film projects throughout the year so I’ve never been able to really commit to doing student organizations. I do miss track & field which I ran freshman and sophomore year for the school but eventually had to quit due to injury. In retrospect though, getting injured really wasn’t all that bad because it forced me to put my life objectives into perspective. As an All American athlete in high school and then a competitor at a Division I school, training for 11 events really limited my time from pursuing my first love, film, and ultimately forced me to realize how fleeting and temporary most things in life are. That’s why, this semester, the only extracurricular activity I’m involved in is helping to run the William & Mary Global Film Festival.
2. What is the first thing you notice when a girl walks into the room?
The same thing every other guy in the world notices (laugh). Seriously though, the first thing I notice is whether or not a girl appears to be confident in herself. Regardless of what a girl looks like, If she seems confident and is approachable then she will shine.
3. Who is your favorite actor or actress and why?
I’ve always been a big Leo (DiCaprio) fan, not simply because I think he’s talented, but also because I’m impressed with the types of roles he chooses. He’s also one of the few actors who has successfully transitioned from children to adult roles in the industry. I guess I just admire the amount of maturity he employs in managing his image compared to other stars.
4. What are the 3 most important factors you look for in a girl?
I think as we all mature, personality and values become more and more crucial to sustaining any sort of real relationship. Obviously I have respect for a girl who takes care of her body, but someone who is smart, driven, and funny is going to catch my eye every time– honestly, I just like someone who is relaxed and not afraid to be herself.
5. What movie can you watch again and again?
Catch Me If You Can. I love films where you’re in the maze with the character making all the same turns and discoveries that they’re making.
6. What would you change about women at William & Mary?
No matter how I answer this question I’m screwed, so I think my safest best is to not discriminate by gender on this one. William & Mary attracts a lot of really intelligent people, and with that comes some occasional pretension and uptightness. There are some really cool people here though, both guys and girls, but some of them don’t need to take themselves so seriously and would benefit from loosening up and having a good time with the average Joe’s like myself once in a while.
7. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?
I’ve always loved southern California and plan on moving there in the next couple years. I almost attended UC Irvine since I received an athletic scholarship there, but decided it might be frustrating to live so close to film but unable to dive into it yet. William and Mary prevailed in my mind as it almost felt like a boarding school because of its location. You’re basically cut off from the world for 4 years, so those of us who are easily distracted can actually focus on academics. I’ve also spent a good deal of time in UK since my father runs a healthcare company in London, and while I’ve become partial to European culture. I just couldn’t live in a place where there are more rainy days per year than sunny days.
8. What is your opinion on sl*tty Halloween costumes?
The sl*t costume thing has become so common now that everyone sort of just accepts it. I think if you can pull it off that’s great, but there are far too many girls who don’t seem to make this distinction.
9. What is your favorite spot on campus?
I’ve always been a big fan of the Sunken Gardens, but I think the most iconic spot on campus would have to be the Wren building. Being able to take classes and sit where some of our Presidents have sat is a pretty unique opportunity, probably one that will mean more to me in years to come.
10. Are you more of a relationship guy or non-committal?
Definitely relationship. I’ve always preferred quality over quantity when it comes to any relationship. At the end of the day, no matter what you’re doing, if you’re doing it by yourself then oftentimes something just feels incomplete.