Robert Fish

My Journey Back to Education at USW

Film and Visual Effects
Student facing the camera and smiling for a profile shot

I’d recommend USW for the supportive teaching environment and practical resources that help you build hands-on skills.


Deciding to return to education to study film

I’m a mature student who returned to education to pursue my long-time passion for visual effects. I actually studied archaeology in university years ago and spent the last 20 years in a different field, but I finally reached a point where I could follow my interest in VFX. I chose USW partly because I’m from Cardiff and heard great things about the University. When I looked into the course, everything lined up. 

Though I didn’t attend an Open Day, the information online gave me a great overview, especially regarding the practical focus and access to industry-standard software. Now in my second year, I’ve been using tools like Cinema 4D, Houdini, Nuke, and the Adobe Suite—almost all of it provided free or at reduced rates. Learning on the same software used in the industry has been invaluable. 

Find your course

WHEN I LOOKED INTO THE COURSE, EVERYTHING LINED UP.

Robert Fish

Visual Effects and Motion Graphics student

A friendly, creative environment

Being back in the classroom has been a change from my previous experience with large lecture halls, but the smaller class sizes here make for a personalised learning environment. It almost feels like private education; sometimes, it’s even one-to-one with lecturers who have real industry experience. They’re accessible and open to giving feedback, which I appreciate. 

As a Cardiff resident, I love that I’m studying in a city with a strong and growing creative community. For anyone serious about a career in VFX, I’d recommend USW for the supportive teaching environment and practical resources that help you build hands-on skills. 

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Interested in Film and Visual Effects?

Through Film and TV School Wales, we can offer students the best opportunities in the UK to build a successful career in film and TV.