What inspired you to return to study?
I earned my previous degree in Organisational Communication and worked remotely as a business content writer for the last 10 years. The landscape has changed drastically and I wanted to expand beyond writing.
During the pandemic I got a GoPro and started filming aspects of my life. I really enjoyed the art of film, so I started looking at where I could go to refine those skills into a new career.
Why did you choose Digital Screen at UC?
I found UC’s Bachelor of Digital Screen to be a comprehensive programme that would allow me to develop the skills I need for the industry and make important connections. The way the degree connects to the industry is unmatched; I loved the idea of being able to get on-set experience from industry professionals. It looked like it would provide lots of opportunities to network and meet people. So far, that’s been very true!
What would you like to do after you graduate?
Ultimately, I want to be part of the future of women in film and create positive pathways for underrepresented groups to tell their stories.
I’m specialising in Cinematic Arts because I have an interest in roles like Director of Photography (DOP), where I can bring the visual side of storytelling to life. I know you don’t immediately become a DOP, so I’d like to start out as a production assistant and continue learning from all different aspects of filmmaking.
What do you like most about your studies so far?
I love the connections I’ve made with my lecturers. I’m constantly asking them questions; they're so gracious with their time and want to help you nurture the things you’re interested in.
The industry connections are also amazing. Between Kōawa Studios (UC’s commercial screen hub) and Digital Screen there are lots of industry talks that bring in local and global professionals. It lets us learn directly from people in the industry and network with them. It’s really cool because you wouldn’t have access to these people otherwise, and it’s the kind of industry where making those connections can lead to huge opportunities.
What are the Digital Screen facilities like?
UC has gear that’s available to students for class projects, and later in the programme you get to work with industry-grade cameras and equipment once you get the technical training and approval. It will be really interesting to work with those big cameras and experience what that looks like on a set. There’s also a green screen room and a virtual production screen, which I am fascinated by.
How do you find the Digital Screen community?
I was initially self-conscious returning to study as an older student, but everyone’s so friendly and my cohort is quite a mix of people that I quickly found my age didn’t matter. There is a big chunk of older students like me who have either changed careers or tried school before and it didn't work out.
Everyone’s super creative, and we are often collaborating on group or side projects.
Have you utilised any support services on campus?
I was feeling a bit overwhelmed with life at one point, so I got advice from Student Care and the UCSA. I also have a mentor on campus through UniLife’s peer mentoring.
UC genuinely cares about your wellbeing and academic success. There are so many programmes and people available for help and support. I feel supported in ways that I did not even expect.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities on campus?
UC Skatebirds is so cool – it’s a non-binary and women's skate crew. I skated as a kid and loved it, so I bought a pair of quad rollerskates and am learning how to skate and do tricks.
I’m also involved with the Amateur Filmmaker Society and the Digital Screen Society, which holds industry Q&A’s and other events.
I enjoy the Foundry’s weekly pub quiz, and I also take ballet classes at the RecCentre. Dance was something I never got to do growing up, so I tried it for the first time when I got to UC and it’s been great.
Living off campus, have you found other ways to connect with people?
UniLife is a first-year programme, mainly for students that live off campus to help them meet people. It connects students that may not be your typical first-years, so there are older students like me or postgrads starting their master's. Everyone’s so nice and they put on lots of great events and activities where we can do something fun not related to our studies.
What do you like about being a student in Christchurch?
The cool thing about being a student at UC, especially a Digital Screen or Arts student, is there are so many opportunities to get free tickets to things, like films and the symphony. There are some great venues for music gigs, like Darkroom and Space Academy.
My husband and I also like hiking, so we enjoy exploring all the local walks like the Bridle Path and Travis Wetlands. And having easy access to the beach is amazing!
Any advice for other students?
Do your research and know what you're getting into. Decide what your priorities are to help you balance your time. And understand that you make your own opportunities at university.
Opportunities are there, but sometimes you have to go looking for them or ask the right questions. So don't be afraid to ask, because that’s the whole point of university.
Can you sum up your UC experience in three words?
Exhilarating. Meaningful. Thought-provoking.
