During the past two years of my course I have developed skills in both 3d modelling and basic animation. I have had multiple tasks set over those years which have involved creating a 3D model scene to showcase a street in which the buildings or street itself would have to have a certain theme. I have worked towards deadlines in all tasks set and achieved. Also I have undertaken my own personal projects in 3DS MAX where I have aimed to create something which could be animated within the software and look believable.
I found myself developing a passion for 3D modelling over 2 years on my current course which introduced me to the software, I found myself getting inspired by other people’s work to create something which could possibly be put into a game or just satisfy myself in the process of finding new techniques ways of achieving result or effects.
I have found myself finding the whole process of making a model challenging yet extremely rewarding. One of the reasons I am 3D modelling is because I find it incredible being to be able to make something that I could only imagine, Watching it unfold over the process and make it exactly how I would like it to be. Although I have not had much experience in animation this is something I have been trying to self-teach myself along with getting as much help with it as possible from lecturers and tutorials online.
On the side I have participated in other activities such as Ten Tours which developed my team work and team leadership skill. This has boosted my confidence. This has benefited me on my current course allowing me to voice my own opinion and challenge others if I believe something is incorrect, for instance coding. But this has also benefited me as I will listen to others to see what they Suggest and recommend. I have also participated on community projects while on a Princes Trust course this involved finding others strengths so I could delegate tasks to them which would be most suitable for them, This also ended up with the person being a lot more productive and happy about what he or she was doing improving the productivity of the group. Both of these have improved my confidence while giving presentations and just improving my ability to communicate with other people as a whole.
For the prospects of the University course I am looking forward to challenging myself on a new level and reaping in the rewards of the tasks at hand. I am particularly looking forward to learning new software’s such as Maya, Mud Box and also Z Brush learning how to sculpt 3D models and rig them for animation. Also I am looking forward to working in groups where everyone works off one another’s strengths for tasks as I find work like this extremely productive, enjoyable and rewarding.
During my studies I have taken advantage of multiple lectures where someone has come in to show off a certain aspect of programs from Photoshop and peer to peer lectures where university students show how they develop their work and their design process.
After I have obtained my degree and left University I would like to pursue a job where the skills I have developed can be used creatively in the entertainment industry, for example working for game production companies, on CGI films / trailers or other opportunities which may open possibilities which will eventually lead me to fulfil these.
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I have always been fascinated by art and animation, sketching imaginative characters and environments, and immersing myself in animation and a variety of gaming platforms from a young age. Studying the design and development of interactive media has provided the perfect outlet to develop my skills and passion in this area, which I wish to continue through Higher Education.
Since starting my course two years ago I have advanced from sketching 2D characters in a notepad, to developing skills in multimedia technology and creative design, allowing me to transfer these characters into 3D designs and use computer techniques to add effects not possible by hand. Although many of these techniques and programmes are complex, and were new to me, I took on the challenge with enthusiasm and a keenness to learn and understand their use and application. Through group tutorials, independent reading and practice online and in the library I now feel I am proficient in a wide range of programmes, which has provided a solid base to develop my creative portfolio and a thirst to learn more about computer animation techniques. I have further explored the creation and application of textures using advanced tools in Photoshop and 3DS Max. I have particularly enjoyed developing a 3D street and a 3D character using multiple sections to allow me to animate and deconstruct it in 3DS Max. Through my portfolio work I have also been able to expand my organisational skills and ability to work and learn independently, which I believe are essential to help contextualise and apply the concepts and techniques learnt in the classroom and I look forward to continuing this during my degree course.
During a one year break I took part in and managing community-based projects with 12 individuals from a range of backgrounds as part of the Prince’s Trust Team programme. This developed my ability to communicate and work effectively as part of a team and this also developed my confidence and organisational skills. During this year I also took part in Tomorrows People. This focused on self-improvement and organisation. These courses subsequently contributed to gaining admission to my current course
Outside of my academic studies I also enjoy being active and travelling. Last year I completed a 210 mile cycling trip with three friends. I ensured cycle routes were planned, camp sites booked and appropriate equipment obtained in advance of the trip. Team work was important once we had begun our expedition to ensure equipment was appropriately distributed and everyone was supported in completing the tour. I have also taken part in the Ten Tors expedition, a team event which requires several months of physical and mental training during which I was also team leader. This role provided me the opportunity to develop my leadership skills, listening to members of the team, providing direction and control and often making difficult decisions, all of which gave me confidence which I have applied to my studies and other areas. I am very privileged to have a mixed heritage which has allowed me to travel extensively through South-East Asia and experience and embrace a range of cultures and traditions. This has opened my eyes to how people’s priorities differ depending on their culture and income.
Fitting in all these activities, and successfully completing them whilst keeping up with my academic studies demands good time management, commitment and dedication. All of which I feel I demonstrate well.
Throughout my education art and design has captivated me, and I enjoy the challenge of developing my skills in this area. I also believe my extra-curricular experiences place me in a great position to fully embrace the experiences Higher Education will bring. Here I will be able to apply all the skills I have attained to progress successfully through my degree course and future, hopefully moving into a career in interactive media or computer animation and design industries.
