Schnarr grew up immersed in a world of creativity, with her grandfather gifting her first cameras and introducing her to the art of photography.

“I have always been in love with it for as long as I can remember. I am a true cinephile,” Shnarr said. “Watching movies throughout my life has fueled a lot of passion for creativity and storytelling that eventually I realized at an early age I was meant to do it as a career."

Her passion for photography and cinematography carries on today as Shnarr created her own production company Sunbeam Productions. Schnarr’s goal for Sunbeam Productions is to fund independent music videos, short films and animated films with an emphasis on uplifting queer communities.

“I’m seriously considering making some more business ventures in funding small budget productions to be able to help independent filmmakers create their stories that fall into the genres I know and love myself,” said Schnarr.

Schnarr credits her professors and peers for shaping her approach to filmmaking, and her successes thus far.

“The experiences at Quinnipiac that I’ve had have certainly shaped how I approach filmmaking,” said Shnarr. “The staff at Quinnipiac are incredibly knowledgeable and as someone who absorbs information to be able to improve my own work I am happy to say I have been taught by some of the best people in the film industry.”

In an ever changing, diverse industry, Schnarr looks to the future, ambitious about the limitless possibilities.

“The entertainment industry has a business and creative divination, and I have found that I love being involved in both,” she said. “This allows me to know how things work while getting to make things I love and am passionate about. I consider myself very lucky and thankful that I get to do my job which is something I love.”

One of the many accomplishments Schnarr feels most proud of is her persistence and drive to try new things without being afraid of failure.

“I think sometimes there are insecurities that hold people back from doing something creative as a career because of what other people will think, or what other people are doing. I have lots of grit and don’t care what anyone thinks other than myself when it comes to what I stand for and that takes a lot of time, effort and confidence to achieve,” Schnarr said.

Currently, Schnarr is co-writing and directing a film to support the queer community, and looks forward to its release during Pride Month.

Schnarr encourages aspiring filmmakers to believe in themselves and embrace every learning opportunity, reminding them that knowledge is power.

“The sky's the limit with what you can do. Have faith in yourself and learn everything you possibly can because knowledge is power, said Schnarr. “Be organized, be professional, and set goals for yourself so you can plan your dreams. Make the projects you like, because that’s what it’s all about. Good luck!”