From Fulbright in Moldova to AI Storytelling: Avital Brodski's Journey

Bridging the Gap Between AI Research and the Public

Avital Brodski, a Northeastern University graduate with a passion for documentary filmmaking and science communication, now thrives as the Communications and Marketing Coordinator for the Digital Data Design Institute. Her days are anything but typical, ranging from crafting compelling social media content to producing cutting-edge videos showcasing the Institute's groundbreaking AI research.

Currently, Avital's focus is on the Institute's upcoming South by Southwest (SXSW) panel exploring the utopian and dystopian potentials of AI. From promotional materials to capturing the panel discussion for online audiences, Avital's role is pivotal in bringing this complex conversation to a wider audience.

“I love taking research—especially AI research—and making it accessible," Avital shares. "This job lets me use creativity and video production to help people understand important discoveries.”

A Path Paved with Co-ops, Documentaries, and a Fulbright Grant

Avital's journey to the Institute is a testament to her diverse experiences. Blending environmental science with media and screen studies at Northeastern, she honed her storytelling skills through co-ops and a Fulbright grant in Moldova. This unique background equipped her with the expertise to translate complex scientific concepts into engaging content, a skill highly valued in her current role.

Her Fulbright experience, focusing on the environmental impact of the Soviet Union in Moldova, provided invaluable insight and material for her first feature-length documentary, a project she continues to refine.

A Passion for Filmmaking Ignited in Philadelphia

Avital’s love for filmmaking sparked early, with award-winning high school documentaries tackling issues like funding cuts for arts programs and showcasing the work of young photographers. These early successes laid the foundation for her future endeavors, including her ambitious Moldovan project.

Moldova: An Unexpected Journey of Discovery and a Feline Friend

Choosing Moldova for her Fulbright, Avital delved into the environmental consequences of the Soviet Union's industrial focus, exploring impacts on soil health and water quality. Living alone for the first time, she embraced the challenges and found an unexpected companion: a stray kitten she rescued and ultimately brought back home with her.

This experience, coupled with her family's roots in the former Soviet Union, adds a deeply personal dimension to her documentary work.

Beyond the Institute: A Creative Spirit

Beyond her professional life, Avital's creative pursuits continue to flourish. She's currently pursuing a master's in creative writing at the Harvard Extension School, explores her artistic talents through painting, and indulges in the world of video games and anime trading card games.