Ida Mizaree

Getting career ready at the University 

After graduation, I joined a start-up studio at USW and later received the Springboard program, which proved to be a transformative experience. I now work as a freelance multimedia artist, and the MA Animation course at USW laid a strong foundation for my career. It equipped me with essential technical skills and provided valuable insights into industry practices. The hands-on projects and supportive faculty helped me gain confidence in my abilities and nurtured my creativity, leading me to produce a short animation that won several festival awards. This recognition not only brought credibility to my work but also opened doors to exciting opportunities. 

I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to study at USW—it truly felt like USW chose me. As an asylum seeker, I was awarded one of the two scholarships provided by the university, which completely changed my life. USW’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, along with its strong reputation in multimedia arts, made it the perfect place for me to pursue my studies. The supportive environment and access to state-of-the-art facilities further reinforced my decision, allowing me to develop both personally and professionally. 

Ida’s advice to current and future students  

The best advice I can give to current students is to keep practicing and honing their skills. Additionally, never underestimate the power of networking and building meaningful connections. The film and TV industry thrive on relationships, and the peers, professors, and industry professionals you meet along the way can become essential allies in your career. Being proactive, attending industry events, and engaging with professionals whenever possible can make a significant difference.