Money is freedom.
Imagine being in a couple of seconds of a commercial and getting paid $625 every 13 weeks as long as it runs. This is what happened to Jaime Garcia.
In addition, Carlmont’s history teacher was paid $114 because it was aired nationally in the World Series.
The commercial is about the Bank of America partnering with Khan Academy to bring better money habits. Garcia had no idea he would be in a national commercial until the day he was selected.
“I like to go to this place called Martha & Brother’s Coffee. They are shooting next to the Farmer’s Market [in front of the coffee shop],” said Garcia. “A young lady comes up to and asks me if I wanted to be in a web spot.”
Even thought it was unexpected, Garcia did not ask questions. He went along with it after the lady mentioned he could get paid.
“Nothing specific was asked and I thought, ‘why not?’” said Garcia.
In preparation for Garcia’s line, he talked with the director and crew.
“They asked me: ‘When I say the word money, what is the first thing that pops up into your head?’ I started naming some things until I said ‘freedom,’” said Garcia. “They told me to say ‘money is freedom’ with a smile.”
After about seven to ten minutes, they finished recording what they needed.
Garcia said, “As soon as I started walking off, the director said, ‘I like that one.’”
According to Garcia, several people were interviewed, but they only picked Garcia and two others. However, the whole filming process was not overwhelming for him.
“I did a commercial before,” said Garcia. “My cousin is the Medic Consultant of CTA. They asked me to be in a commercial for CTA in Spanish. I did it voluntarily.”
Garcia’s fellow staff members were excited to see him on national TV.
“It was game one of the World Series. I saw the commercial of Khan and then I saw Mr. Garcia. I rewound it and took a picture of him. He looked cool with a jacket on,” said Josh Engberg, a science teacher.
Students also recognized Garcia on TV.
“I thought it was pretty cool,” said sophomore Madison Dugan.
Not only did Garcia’s family and members of Carlmont recognize him, other people did too.
“One person out of the blue said ‘I saw you on TV!’ which is so cool,” said Garcia.
Freedom in Garcia’s future can be granted with the money he earns.
“It’s amazing what two seconds on TV can do,” said Garcia.
