Oliwia Sydry

Growing My Passion for Animation Into a Career

Animation and Games
Oliwia sat behind a desk smiling at the camera

We get to collaborate with students from other courses, including CGI and different year groups, to create projects.


Choosing the Right Creative Path at USW 

I’ve loved animation since I was young, so choosing this course felt completely natural. It’s something I always imagined myself doing either as a career or as a meaningful hobby, so I knew I wanted a place where I could dedicate myself fully to learning the craft. USW quickly became the most appealing option, known as one of the most creative environments in Wales.

Studying here has given me plenty of chances to get involved in real opportunities, especially through the Cardiff Animation Festival. I volunteered there last year, which helped me gain confidence and put my work in front of audiences. As I’ve progressed through the course, the modules have become even more rewarding. I learned so much in first year, applied those skills in second year, and now, in third year, everything is coming together in a way that feels exciting and challenging.

Employability and Careers

I’VE HAD ACCESS TO PROFESSIONAL SOFTWARE LIKE THE ADOBE SUITE AND TOON BOOM, COMPLETELY FREE

Oliwia Sydry

BA Animation (2D and Stop Motion) student

Building Skills, Confidence and Industry Experience

One of the highlights has been how flexible and supportive the lecturers are. They adapt to how you work rather than forcing you into a rigid structure, which makes a huge difference creatively. This year we’ll also be collaborating with students from other courses, including CGI and different year groups, especially for our final films where we can ask for help with colouring, line art or more specialised tasks. Living in Cardiff adds to the experience - it’s a colourful, creative city full of art, independent shops and energy that feeds into the work we make.

The facilities at USW have set me up well for where I want to go. I’ve had access to professional software like the Adobe Suite and Toon Boom completely free during my studies, giving me time to properly learn the tools that studios expect you to know. Looking ahead, I want to apply to a range of studios - Pixar would be a dream, but I’m also excited by the rise of smaller studios and the idea of possibly opening my own one day.

Find your course

Interested in Games, Animation and Visual Effects?

With on-campus motion capture, green screen, VR & AR, we will teach you how to work as a creative professional.