Harry Symonds completed a Level 3 Media Production course at West Suffolk College during the initial covid lockdown. After achieving a distinction, he went on to attend his first choice university and is now working in the VFX industry on major productions for streaming giants such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.
What made you want to study at West Suffolk College?
It introduced me to something entirely new and that I hadn’t tried before. Coming from photography GCSE, film production seemed like such an exciting step. Since it was my top choice, I relocated to Bury St Edmunds to pursue it.
Are there any standout moments you remember as part of your time with the college?
I specifically remember the craziness of the 48-hour film challenge and the trip to Norwich for a VFX talk with Jules Foddy.
What are some key things you took away from studying at WSC?
I will be forever thankful to my tutor, Ben Pryke, for consistently pushing me and recognising my potential in the VFX industry. Without his support, I likely wouldn’t have been able to pursue the path I am on today.
A particular quote I remember on the Gateway building I believe sums up my time at WSC: ‘we are what we do repeatedly do, therefore excellence is not an act, but a habit.’
What’s one piece of advice would you give to future students and future staff?
Future students – take risks, try everything, don’t be afraid to fail, work hard with immense passion.
Future staff – never underestimate the impact of your words and actions on students, the smallest word of encouragement can really be the difference.
