In my grade 12 year, I took computer technology classes. There I learned the basics of HTML, Flash and Photoshop. I was inspired by multimedia design, so I started to research my options for post-secondary school. I came across the Digital and Interactive Media (now Digital Media Design) program at NAIT. It offered a variety of courses, from 3D modeling to flash animation and video production to graphic design. I was very intrigued.
My design skills were pretty rusty, but having the right attitude got me accepted into the program.
Choosing NAIT Over The Rest
Knowing that multimedia was what I really wanted to do, I picked NAIT because they offered great hands on experience as opposed to some other post secondary institutions. I attended the open house as well as their information meeting where I was able to talk to some of the instructors.
When the cost of the tuition had to be dealt with, I found the program to be very reasonable. It was around $1500 per semester. I didn’t even have to take out a student loan because I could afford it right off the top.
The Digital and Interactive Media Design Program
When I first entered the program, I was stressed out over the fact that I was introduced to so many different programs. I wondered if I was going to really be able to do it. Eventually, as time went on, I realized it wasn’t as bad as I thought and all my expectations were filled.
Whenever we needed access to equipment, it was always available just as long as other students didn’t need it at the same time. I never had any problems taking out equipment and the instructors were really cool about it.
I found that the best part of the program were the instructors because they were really helpful when I needed them. Even though the class sizes had 25+ students, they offered great one on one attention. They taught us so many concepts and programs that I am so grateful to know.
Still, there were bad parts to the program as well. The worst part being that we didn’t learn enough about the programs we were using, or didn’t learn some programs at all. For example, we didn’t learn Adobe InDesign because it wasn’t considered an “industry standard” program. After working in the industry, I found that all design companies use InDesign. I ended up having to learn it on my own. It was the same with Compressor and After Effects. We didn’t learn enough of these programs and they’re some of the most sought after programs the industry asks for.
Career Choices
When it came to our career choices, I believe the program did prepare us. We had to choose a major and a minor and that’s what we focused on in our second semester. The only thing was that I felt there wasn’t enough time to learn what we needed to know about our concentrations. I did learn a lot, but I just wish there was more time.
At the moment, I am currently working in multiple industries. I have a freelance graphic design business as well as a full-time job in the film industry. The skills that I learned in school mostly apply to the graphic design side of things, but my main focus is on film. I would have never had the knowledge I do if it weren’t for the Digital and Interactive Media Design program. I feel that I wouldn’t need to do anymore post-secondary because I have learned what I need to know to keep working in the industry. I’m very comfortable right now doing what I do.
When it comes to the program itself, there is no doubt in my mind that I would recommend it.
The Verdict
When it comes to the program itself, there is no doubt in my mind that I would recommend it. It’s been a lot of fun and you learn so much. Since I’ve graduated from the program, it’s undergone many changes that it’s really a completely different program. I wish they had changed it sooner, while I was still in school because the programs they now offer would have been really useful. If I had known that it would be changing, I would have waited to enroll. Other than that, it’s been worth it.
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That’s pretty cool. I’m taking New Media Production & Design at SAIT, and it sounds similar to this program.