Testimonials from the 2006 SWEAT class

Stacie Lee, Grade 11, 3-D Animation
“I like the fact that I was exposed to animation because it was something I had never done before. I couldn’t believe you could make so many models from such simple shapes – and now I know how to do it. I would like to come back next year and try the 2-D Animation program.”

Murphy Kennedy, Grade 11, Recording Arts
“I like that I got the chance to work with equipment that is standard in the industry. I also like that I had the chance to work in groups like I would in an actual post-production situation.”

Raisa Ruiz, Grade 12, Fashion Design
“It’s really awesome. It shows you the different aspects of the fashion world and you have the freedom to design whatever you want. It’s been a really good experience to be in this environment and be around people who are so positive.”

Ashlyn Behrndt, Grade 11, Fashion Design
“My teacher is amazing. The program gives you a lot of insight and ideas that you can do on your own. I was considering a career in fashion and came here to find out more. I am pretty set on it now.”

Silvana Avignoni, Grade 12, Fashion Design
“I’ve enjoyed the whole experience of working hands-on and knowing what it is like to think like a designer. I love that everyone here was chosen because they are artistic or talented in this field. Everyone has individual skills to bring. You can relate to them so much!”

Cristina Capacillo, Grade 11, Fashion Design
“I like seeing other people’s ideas. I have my own, but it’s also great to see what others are creating. I love fashion – it’s such a cool form of art. You see it all the time, you wear it all the time – it’s everyday art.”

Meagan Williams, Grade 11, Culinary Arts
“The facilities are new and really easy to get to. It was a real learning experience – someday I want to be a Chef and open my own hotel, spa and restaurant in Cape Town.”

Madilyn Pearson, Grade 11, Culinary Arts
“It’s so much fun! You meet so many cool people, but you’re also learning in a structured environment. It’s not stressful or repetitive and in the morning you actually look forward to coming here. I’ve gained a lot of knife skills, which was one of the reasons I actually wanted to do this program.”

Elle Fan, Grade 12, Interior Design
“I’ve always wanted to become an interior designer and heard the program was really fun. I am hoping to apply here. It’s been an awesome experience.”

Kristal Vanzweitering, Grade12, Interior Design
“I learned how to build my portfolio and what schools are looking for. I like that we are not using a computer – that we are using drawing skills. The instructors were awesome – both of them!”

Romualdo Rono, Grade 12, Interior Design
“I like the program because it gives you enough room to be creative, but it’s also structured. My dream since I was a little kid was to be an architect, and this is definitely part of that. The program really helps you shape your creativity. I like the whole program. I would recommend it.”

Saara Rayani, Grade 12, Graphic Design
“The experience has been beneficial and fun. It’s a great environment. I’ve learned a lot in a short amount of time, and the teachers really know what they are talking about. I’m most excited about seeing the end product.”

Jessica Orth, Grade 12, Digital Film, Multi-camera
“It was a really hands-on course. Even if you are a beginner and don’t know a lot, they start from the beginning. It’s a really good program to see if this is something you want to pursue as a career. And the equipment is sweet to work with!”

Jessica Bryant, Grade 11, Digital Film, Multi-camera
“It’s a lot of fun and I think the instructor is great. Instead of just being told what to do, we actually get to try things and experiment. You also get to meet new people who have the same interests, and see the school and decide if you want to go here.”

Luke Milden, Grade 12, Digital Film, Editing
“Our teacher Rob was really professional. I also liked that the equipment was top of the line. It’s really helped my editing a lot, so it will definitely help me with the movies I am making at school.”

Brent Wanstall, Grade 12, Digital Film, Editing
“I love the people here – the instructor, Rob, was great and I thought the course was really well done. It gave us the chance to work with other people who are interested in the same things, and a chance to work with professional level equipment.”

Blair O’Neill, Grade 12, Game Development
“I’ve learned how game development works – how game development companies work. You learn a lot in the first few days, and then move into teams and start working on a board game… Making your own game is pretty cool.”

Kyle Wilkins, Grade 11, Level Design
“I’ve just completed a game level, so I have learned a lot! This is the school I plan on coming to. I’m having a great time.”

Robert Damaso, Grade 12, Digital Film, Multi-camera
“It’s really fun. I want to keep doing this – it’s a really cool program. You don’t just do one thing, you do a lot of different jobs. It’s really good training too.”

© The Art Institute of Vancouver