WASHINGTON, D.C. – Howard University student Inestin “Andante” Petit-Homme won a trip to the Los Angeles film premiere of “What Men Want” after participating in the #WhatStudentsWant Video Contest, presented by Paramount Pictures and HBCU Buzz. He used the hashtag in an Instagram post that received more than 1,000 views and was selected based on the number of likes, comments, and creativity of his video.

“The video I made came from the idea of the movie, ‘What Men Want.’ I wanted to make it comically creative for the viewers and judges while also testing out my content creation skills,” said the senior media, journalism and film communications major. “I made sure to give Howard representation while comedically showing off the appeal of a Howard woman. It was also fun because I did it with my fellow creatives on campus. I believe teamwork and communion with like-minded individuals is what carries you, rather than just looks and talent when in the entertainment industry.” 

While in Los Angeles, Petit-Homme went to visit Howard University alumna Wendy Raquel Robinson at her school for the arts, the “Amazing Grace Conservatory”. Along with Taraji P. Henson, Robinson’s character Tasha Mack on “The Game” were major acting inspirations for him. He also attended Henson’s Hollywood star ceremony.

“It was an honor to actually witness a monumental day in history for one of my HU Alumni Bison actor predecessors,” he said.

As part of the prize, Petit-Homme attended his first Hollywood movie premiere and red carpet along with an invitation to attend a Los Angeles Laker game.

“Coming back to Howard right when I’m about to graduate in 99 days after gaining that experience really shows that I made the right choice in following my dream no matter what anyone else says,” said Petit-Homme. “It sure is a great time to be a Bison!”

Petit-Homme, a theatre arts minor from Durham, N.C. by way of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is a full-time student and actor, and has been featured in local festivals, stage readings, and commercials. He’s had to balance the two, saying “I trained in both classes on campus that dealt with entertainment specifically while also investing in workshops & classes of campus at local studios.”

Reflecting on why he chose Howard University, Petit-Homme said, “I wanted a secure place to nurture my creativity and intellectual mind amongst people I knew I could connect with easily. Professionally, Howard taught me how to connect with people. Ever since freshman week, I began talking and empathizing with students/faculty from many different backgrounds. For my career in entertainment, it is beneficial that I maintain strong, healthy and genuine relationships.” 

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Article by Maia Regman

Media Contact: Alonda Thomas, alonda.thomas@howard.edu