Student Voices
Scott D Purdie – 2009 Bsc (Hons) Computer Animation
“I joined the 3rd year of the UWS Computer Animation Programme after having completed two years at college. My time at UWS allowed me to further develop my skills and work with programmers on the Computer Games course. I worked with a group of 3rd year programmers to provide them with in-game models and animations for the game that appeared in the Digital futures Show along with my own 3rd year project.
For my honours project I spent my time learning and creating two levels using the Unreal 3 engine which not only helped improve my art skills but increased my knowledge of the game making process.
Most importantly my time at UWS allowed me to create art and work with other like minded people who also enjoy the challenges of the creative process.”
Scott has just set up his own Computer Animation company ‘Just Another Studio’
The company will develop games and interactive works for mobile and web platforms. The projects will be a mixture of work for hire and new IP.
Katie Haughan –2010 BA (Hons) Filmmaking and Screenwriting
“I entered this course September 2008 at 3rd year level of the BA course. I had completed an HND in Creative Industries: Television at James Watt College in Greenock prior to that.
At UWS I feel like there is a real balance between the appreciation of film theory and the actuality of the filmmaking process. You learn how to control the cameras, sound and lighting equipment to the extent that you can produce your own films and are given the freedom to do so, as well as having a floor to show and gain constructive criticism of the work that you have created through a support network of peers and lecturers. You are taught scriptwriting by those that have done and continue to work as scriptwriters in the film and television industry, pushing you to use coal face methods that are adopted by writers working successfully today.
Most lecturers are actively involved in the industry, working on current programming or have films in pre production. Peter Broughan, producer of Rob Roy and The Flying Scotsman, gives us the opportunity to pitch professionally to him frequently. Most of the screenwriting lecturers all continue to work in the Scottish television industry and consistently bring what they learn or teach to colleagues back into the classroom to you.”
Katie works freelance for a multimedia production company in Glasgow
Lucy Armatage – 2008 BA (Hons) Digital Art
“The Work Based Learning module in 3rd year was invaluable to my post University career. I undertook a work placement at Graphical House design studio. I learned how to work in a design environment and see first hand the relationship between designer and client, watching the conception of an idea through to completion to a professional standard. Once I completed the module requirements I continued helping out, creating some invaluable contacts. Once I graduated I was invited to work freelance for the company by creating two short films for their client, taking photographs and collating them within After Effects.
Attaining work placements while at Uni, meeting with people in the industry and discovering different aspects of design and media made me realise that the opportunities within this field are endless.’
Lucy is a freelance Digital Media Artist
Sandy Kilpatrick – 2008 BA (Hons) Journalism
“The work experience provided on the Journalism programme was the best part of the course as I felt it offered a big advantage when I was looking for work. The industry links to the department are crucial. Shorthand is the best thing I have done, I use it everyday and it is so important for getting the facts for writing news stories.”
Industry role: Reporter at the Cumnock Chronicle working for both the newspaper and online covering court and council, writing news and features.
Laura Wallace – 2008 BA Performance
“ I gained new skills and knowledge on the BA Performance programme at the University of the West of Scotland that I will use within the industry. Skills have included the use of a Z1 cameras and equipment, working in the studio and gallery, forming a theatre group within the community, editing and being able to produce and present my own radio show at the University Radio Station. The course has definitely enabled me to pursue my ambition to work within the Arts.
It has been a great stepping stone and helped me gain employment within the industry. I have chosen the route of working in television production. After graduating I have been fortunate to find work within the BBC as a Production Runner going from one production to the next on the recommendation of the previous manager. I am working in a job where I can be creative and put my skills to good use. I have made excellent contacts with independent companies and through networking I hope to move to the next level in my career. My next goal is to become a Junior Researcher.”
Alison McDonald – 2008 Post Graduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism
“There’s no way I’d be where I am now if I hadn’t done the course – the practical experience and contacts within the industry are so valuable, especially in such a competitive jobs market”.
Industry Role : Head of News, Wave 102
Steven Hume – 2007 BA (Hons) Commercial Music
“My time at UWS prepared me well for entering the music industry. I felt the biggest advantage of the degree was the doors that it opened through various contacts, without which I probably wouldn’t be working within the industry today. Through the modules I participated in – from first year and up to honours level – I gained an excellent and well rounded view of how the business operates, an essential skill in today’s ever-changing market.”
Industry Role: Music Development Officer, Tolbooth Performance Space and Arts Centre
