Dionysios
Tantele

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose NTU Filmmaking because I always saw myself working in the entertainment industry somehow. What stood out to me about this course was how it allowed for its students to get the chance to experience different fields of filmmaking, and because of this freedom, I really began discovering my passion for Directing and Sound Design.

What’s your favourite thing about your course?

What I love about this course is how there is an emphasis on community within our field. Networking with people is a key part of being a successful filmmaker, and developing those initial bonds with your classmates has been a crucial part of growing myself as an artist. We learn from one another, share valuable experiences, and most of all, have fun!

How have you found the course facilities?

The course has provided us with some amazing facilities to use that would be crucial in our filmmaking journey. We had the opportunity to work closely with our technicians to learn more about the equipment that would normally be used on professional sets, as well as learn an immense amount about different editing software. The facilities, studios, workspaces and equipment are readily available to us. We have the chance to cultivate our creativity whenever we feel like coming in one day and want to just shoot a film.

Have you worked on any live briefs or competitions?

We were briefed to create a music video based on soundtracks generously provided to us by Ninja Tunes, which gave us a whole new perspective of commercial and music-based filmmaking. We also partook in the Young Creative Awards with our own films, many of which were documentaries in the second year. The turnout was a huge success among our group!

Has your course included any guest speakers or industry trips? What have you enjoyed about this?

We had the privilege of being visited by directors and editors like Jeanie Finlay and Catrin Griffiths, where we gained a better insight into what working in the industry is like. It was great getting to see the kind of work they make while learning more about following this career path.

When I’m not studying…

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

The three words I would use to describe Nottingham would be... Lively, Fascinating, Picturesque!

What do you think of the creative and cultural scene in Nottingham? Is Nottingham a good city for an Art & Design student?

I was pleasantly surprised by the bustling creative and cultural scene that sparks around Nottingham. Coming here I didn’t fully know what to expect, but I realized how wonderful it is as a city for young creatives to come in and really discover themselves. As a young Filmmaker, I’m really happy to see the amazing amount of opportunities for us to showcase our work, such as the Young Creative Awards, the Beeston Film Festival, and the Nottingham International Festival. ok.

Where would you recommend visiting in Nottingham?

Beeston! I lived there in my first year of university, and I don’t think I’ll ever forget it. The area feels so wonderful and quaint to take a walkthrough. In the local shops, there are hidden gems that don’t get talked about enough. Also, it’s probably the best place to be during the Summer, and I’d suggest walking around Highfields park. Perhaps take a boat ride in the lake if you can!

If you could give new students some advice, what would it be?

The most important skill that you could possibly learn in university is NETWORKING. As a Filmmaking student, getting to know your fellow creatives can be the difference between having your work be another student project, to an award-winning film that will really put you through the door! And to my fellow incoming filmmakers, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It’s okay to make a few hiccups here and there. Being a student filmmaker gives us that learning opportunity to be better than we can imagine!

What do you think of the course staff?

I’m grateful to have a staff team dedicated to our Filmmaking course and our learning. The pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but they always pulled through to ensure we made the most out of our university experience. We also had recent hires who have enhanced our learning experience more than ever. The technicians are always there when you need them. The team as a whole are some of the nicest people you get to meet. They genuinely treat you as a friend and acknowledge you as creative, while pushing you forward to improve all the time!

Have you used any of the student support services or NTU’s Employability team? How have you found this experience?

I worked as a Student Ambassador as well as a Student Mentor through UNITEMPS. Everyone has been really helpful when I wanted to gain more experience outside of my course hours. From being able to receive extra compensation, to developing my interpersonal skills, NTU’s employability team and support services have been an integral part of my university experience.

About the future...

What’s next for you after NTU?

After I finish NTU, I hope to apply my newly found passion and skills as a creative to develop myself further. I’m considering taking a Master’s Degree in either Sound Design or Film Directing. I know that wherever I go, the impression NTU has left for me will always stay, and will be a wonderful chapter that I will get to look back on once I pave my way further into the entertainment industry.

Why did you want to study in the UK?

My family also studied in the UK, and my support network really helped make my decision clear for where I wanted to study. Although I didn’t visit as much growing up, I knew that I would adapt well coming to study here!

How is NTU for international students?

Growing up in an international school, NTU has exceeded my expectations with its diversity. The university has been so welcoming and open, making life easier when adapting to it. It’s even better when they have their own global lounge for us to visit and relax there while meeting many like-minded people with wonderful stories to tell!