The Game Art and Computer Animation Program Advisory Committee met on campus this month, and offered the unique opportunity of an entirely question and answer based panel for students. Hosted in Full Sail Live, students were given an hour to step up to the mic and ask these industry professionals for advice.

The panel consisted of:

• Ricardo Ariza, Artist for Valve Software (2004 Computer Animation grad)
• Russell Barton, Character Artist for EA Tiburon
• Jack Geckler, Animation Lead and Crowd Supervisor for Digital Domain and Full Sail Hall of Fame Inductee (2000 Computer Animation grad)
• David Hackett, Technical Writer for Pixar Animation Studios (2003 Computer Animation grad)
• Allan Norico, Illustrator and Designer for Ecotel Interactive (2004 Computer Animation grad)
• Phil Rosado, Senior Modeler, Integration, Lighter for Method Studios (2007 Computer Animation grad)

Topics covered included how to transition from games to movies, when to shed your school portfolio, and how to tailor your demo reel for the job you want.

When asked how a new intern could stand out working on set or in a studio, the panel had some insightful advice. “Research the tools that a studio uses to better understand the way they work,” said David. “You can jump in a lot faster from the beginning, and employers really appreciate that.”

“The best interns are those who form relationships with the professionals and show their willingness to learn,” added Jack. All of the panel members agreed that whenever you have any free time, always ask to learn something new or to shadow someone.