What made you choose your specific major?
I remember sitting in a movie theater in 7th grade with my best friend at the time, and I was watching whatever super hero movie was out that year. I don’t remember which movie it was, but I vividly remember having a thought, “I want to work on a movie. I want my name to be on those rolling credits at the end.” So, when I researched and saw Visual Effects as an major, I jumped at the opportunity to learn!
What are a couple of your things about your program of study?
I really like the well rounded approach that this program has. Not only have I worked on one specific application for VFX, I’ve taken classes in modeling, texturing, coding, video editing, etc. I have a reach in many aspects that are vital to the entertainment industry, which is super cool!
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
In my photorealistic shaders course, we combined photogrammetry and modeling! My professor set up a rig to scan our faces from many angles so we had comprehensive scans of our heads. I then sculpted, textured my head in software such as ZBrush and Maya to make a realistic bust. It’s both very cool and a little creepy at the same time.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
I’m involved with many clubs and activities, most noteworthy being marching band and concert band! I have been a member of the Purdue All-American Marching band since my freshman year, and have been doing the athletic pep bands (such as for our men’s and women’s basketball teams, volleyball, even soccer) for a few years now too. I am also a member of Tau Beta Sigma, which is the band service sorority, which focuses on service within the PBO department and the overall community!
What was something unique about one of your summer internships?
I had the opportunity to intern a summer at Walt Disney World for the Disney College Program last summer! It was such a cool experience to work for such a large global company, plus being able to go to the parks on my days off was an added bonus.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
Although VFX and Animation is a more art oriented major, this is still a STEM school! You will still take courses like physics, statistics, calculus, etc.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue Students?
I would research a little more about the industry / specific job roles that you are interested in going in to. College is not only about furthering your passions, but the payoff for that passion after college. Really work towards being on top of things, asking questions, and connecting to your classmates. Also, get involved!!! Since I joined band my first semester, I’ve had this close community of other people who are passionate about music as I am.