Jack
Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours majoring in Cinematic Arts, minoring in Screenwriting
Hometown: Christchurch
What inspired you to study Digital Screen?
I’ve always had a passion for storytelling, and I’ve wanted to tell stories since I was young. I want to evoke emotion through the art of filmmaking, create something that moves people.
My career aspiration is to make feature-length films. I want to direct, but I also want to tell my own stories, and I believe Cinematic Arts and Screenwriting go hand in hand. I think it’s really important to master both of those aspects.
Why did you choose UC’s programme?
I chose to study at UC because the degree is very practical and hands-on. We have so much equipment available to us, which gives us an idea of what the industry is about – it’s exciting. It's also nice to be close to home and have my family nearby.
Do you work on any extracurricular projects in your spare time?
Before uni, I was creating short films on my own with mates. I love the fantasy genre. I made a short film early last year called ‘The Trade,’ and it was nominated for Wētā Workshop's Best Special Effects award at the New Zealand Youth Film Festival.
I also work as a freelancer filming boxing and combat sports. That work has helped me in my courses, but my studies have also helped me improve that work. Both aspects help me become better. I'd say doing as much extracurricular work as you can is one of the most important things you can do.
What is the Digital Screen community like at UC?
The cohort is really tight-knit, and everyone knows everyone, even the lecturers. It’s great because everyone collaborates and there's a sense of community and support that I don't think you get in other places.
The BDigiScreen(Hons) is an amazing community of like-minded people that are all really passionate about the same thing. There’s a great sense of support and collaboration unique to the degree.
What are the programme’s facilities like?
The facilities and equipment here are things that most people wouldn’t have the opportunity to use otherwise. It’s really important to have professional gear that doesn't hold you back, and it’s been useful to see this industry-level equipment.
Has there been a standout project or experience from your studies so far?
A highlight for me was a screenwriting class where I started working on a script for a short film. I really put a lot of effort into it. It wasn't just something I was doing for my grade; it was something I intended on creating. We were then given the opportunity to pitch our ideas, so I pitched this film and had a team come together to create it.
We had a whole semester to work on it, and it was one of the greatest experiences I've had creating a short film because it was the largest amount of people I've had involved. I’m so super stoked with how it turned out. It was such a great opportunity, and you can see through the trajectory of my work how it’s increased in quality.
What else do you enjoy doing when you’re not studying?
I like to keep fit and stay active. I think it’s important for your mental health. Sometimes I'll run around Hagley Park with my mates, which is always really competitive and good fun. I’ll also use UC’s Rec Centre, which is free for students.
What has your UC student experience been like overall?
I've had a lot of support, with everything from extracurricular activities to choosing courses. I think that's the main thing. Anyone I've reached out to has always responded really fast, with my best interests at heart.
Any advice for other students considering studying Digital Screen at UC?
I'd say just do it. Even if you're unsure, give it a go. The Digital Screen degree is the new kid on the block. It’s exciting, it's new, and it's a great opportunity.
