Q&A With SSU Creative Video Editor: Claire

Have you ever wondered what it’s like being in the Film and Television program at Sheridan? We sat down with recent Sheridan graduate, Claire, to chat about life in the program and her plans for the future. Whether you’re heading into the BFTV student in the fall, passionate about working in the industry, or just want the inside scoop on college life, check out our Q&A chat:

“When I went into this program, I never thought that I would be graduating with a passion for Visual Effects!”

- Claire Firstbrook

Q: What's the most exciting part of your program so far?

A: The chance to be able to create a film that you have been wanting to make. To have a full crew and equipment given to you, it is super fun! 

Q: What's a project or assignment you're really proud of working on? What made it so rewarding?

A: Personally, in my head, I never thought that I was amazing at my passions, but when people come to me saying they loved my work on another film and they want me to work on their new film, it is the most rewarding ever! It makes all the long nights worth it! 

Q: What made you choose Sheridan and what made you select your program?

A: My family has loved Sheridan College since my parents met and grew up in Oakville. My great grandma even taught a flower arrangement class at Sheridan! So when I was looking for colleges, Sheridan's campus and program were one of my favourites from all of the other colleges. Sheridan just seemed right for me and my path! 

Q: Tell us about your experience in your program.  What surprised you most? What was challenging?  

A: My program allowed me to be able to try everything film-related! I was just so excited to try all the high-tech equipment that my younger self would be so amazed that I got to use! When I went into this program, I never thought that I would be graduating with a passion for Visual Effects! The one thing that is challenging is that throughout my four years of being here, I would be excited to do all my schoolwork in my free time—but it uses a lot of creativity. I never would have thought that creativity is something that I would be running out of! 

Q: Favourite Course(s) & Why?

A: Visual Effects! I loved the small classes, and everyone was trying to help each other out. Visual Effects is also kind of like a puzzle, and somehow it just makes sense in my brain!
The Art of Cinematography was a super fun class. It was fun to make small videos that I was super proud of! Cinema is a passion of mine, so it was fun to play around with it!

Q: What's something you learned about yourself in this program?

A: It’s funny, but over the past four years I somehow got rid of my shyness. If you told any of my friends at school that I have always been shy, doesn't-talk type of girl they would be shocked. When I tell my parents that I'm outgoing and not shy at school they are shocked. 

Q: What's a hidden gem (an item, app, tool, software, etc.) that wasn't on your syllabus that you found to be essential to your success?

A: I know this is cliche, but TikTok has some great creators that give you small tips or you see someone else's film and it gives you an idea! I find it’s almost like TikTok knows what you’re struggling with and sends a video that helps you! 

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