Name: Nathan

Degree: Bachelor of Communications (Film Media Major)

How did you come to study a Bachelor of Communications?

Originally I was studying Secondary Teaching but realised it just wasn’t what I wanted to do. I switched to a new degree called Climate Science and Adaptation because my major for teaching was Environmental Science, I figured I’d eliminate the teaching and do that instead. One of my assignments during the first semester was regarding a crater on Mars and the debated existence of a mineral creating bacteria in it. NASA had extensively researched this topic since the creation of the assignment, so I panicked not knowing how to do it. I spent my time procrastinating by watching movies and editing videos, so I decided to switch to a Communications degree instead.

What has been your favourite part of your degree so far?

Unlike many of the compulsory courses regarding news and social media, the creative-collaborations course focuses more on my film major. We created one and three-minute short films and the three-minute film was showcased at the Goldfish Festival toward the end of the year. It was a great night to see your film and to see ones created by other students in the degree.

Has your degree unlocked any interesting opportunities for you?

I’ve been given the opportunity to volunteer and assist a PhD student with creating a short film, that’s going to be exciting.

Are you associated with any clubs at the University?

I am currently a treasurer for the Sign Language Club and the Writing Club which has been fun. I highly recommend joining the Sign Language Club if it’s something you’ve ever been interested in, all the signs I know have been learnt through them. In the future, I’d really like to start my own club where we can watch and create films, hang out and eat pizza.

Do you have any advice for other students?

I was in the military for a while, so I have no fear of putting myself out there in a class by volunteering or doing public speaking. I recommend even if you hate public speaking just do it. It’s an important skill to learn. Teachers are going to pick on you the more you hide or remain quiet anyway. There’s no harm in trying. Other students really don’t care either so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.