Edison Hipkin

Studying and living in Cardiff 

I initially wanted to be a writer and was fascinated by the potential of film as a visual storytelling medium. Since the age of 14, I’ve taken every film course I could find, and it’s been brilliant to continue that journey here. 

I chose USW because of its strong industry connections, including ties to the BBC, Bad Wolf, and the Iris Prize—a major queer short film festival associated with Channel 4. Visiting an Open Day really confirmed that USW was the right place for me, and living in Cardiff has only added to the experience. Coming from near London, I love how friendly and accessible Cardiff is, with all the perks of a city but a much warmer atmosphere.  

I’ve volunteered at the Iris Prize and even served on the student feature film jury, which was an exciting experience. My favourite part of the course has been the seminars, where we dive into film theory and discuss what we’ve watched—these discussions are invaluable for my growth. 

Life after graduation  

After USW, I’m aiming to pursue a Master’s and eventually a PhD in film, as I’d love to continue my education and deepen my understanding of the field. USW has prepared me with essential skills for entry-level roles in production, sound, and camera work, and the facilities here are fantastic.  

For anyone considering film, I’d say go for it! The course at USW lets you explore all aspects of the industry and find your niche.