Margarita Borodina -2019

What education did you have before you took the Visual Effects for Film and Television course?

-Before taking Visual Effects for Film and Television course, I have studied Graphic Design program at Seneca College, and before that I did Bachelor in Design at the Ural State Academy of Architecture and Arts in Russia.

Tell us a bit about your experience at the college.

-I think it was the best program I have taken. It’s focused on introducing to different areas of visual effects and preparing for the real job. It wasn't easy to give all of my time to college, and leaving my full-time job; competing with the classmates, who previously had an experience in the field. It was very challenging 8 months for me, trying to catch up with as much as I can, but I am happy I did it.

How do you use the education you got at Seneca in your job today?

- Currently I am a Lighting Artist at Mr.X. As a Lighter who works primarily in Houdini, I am grateful for paying attention to fx classes. Depending on the shot and project, it requires different level of knowledge of compositing and programming as well. I can say that learning at school how the shot is build, starting from shooting on the camera and finishing in Nuke was very helpful.

What advice would you give potential students who are thinking of taking the course?

-Don’t be lazy, and don’t give up. This short course has very friendly and talented mentors, listen and learn from them. I really enjoy what I am doing now, it’s creative, interesting and definitely not boring. Good luck!

(Written in 2020)