Ethan
Rushton

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I chose NTU because of how far ahead they were than any other university in terms of Facilities and equipment for my course. Another big reason was the incredible atmosphere and sports facilities on offer.

What was your favourite thing about studying in the School of Art & Design?

My favourite thing about the school was all the exceptional state of the art facilities namely the broadcast gallery as well as all the incredibly engaging staff on hand to help.

What do you think of the course facilities? How do they compare to your work in industry?

The Facilities compare fantastically to the industry they are all incredibly recent and cutting edge especially in the broadcast gallery and arena.

Did you get a chance to work on any live projects or competitions during your studies? What was this experience like?

During my studies I got to take part in many live projects for both internal and external clients (namely the NLC winter finals, PDC Darts and live boxing)  and gave me real hands on experience working as part of a wider production team giving me real industry experience alongside my studies.

Did you get involved with any other opportunities at NTU. How did these opportunities improve your experience?

I was largely involved in activities and opportunities in the wider university from being on the committee of multiple sports societies, becoming a fresher rep in both my second and third year as well as going on multiple exiting course trips to places like Brompton technologies.

What job are you currently doing and what does it involve?

I am currently working as an AV technician at Onebigstar. My job involves both the maintenance and preparation of Audio, Video and lighting Equipment as well as the install and operation of this equipment on site for events. Some Events and brands I have worked on as part of my role Prep and operation wise are: The Grand National, Guinness (6 nations Rugby), Comic Con and Dream Hack.

How has your experience at NTU helped you in your current role? Are there any skills you gained at NTU that you now use every day?

At NTU I learned many vital skills essential to my current role. Some skills I use regularly mainly revolve around signal flow (power, DMX,) and networking (Dante) as well as problem solving much of which I learnt through trial and error during many student led productions.

What would your advice be to current Art & Design students?

My Advice would be to take every opportunity your course gives you to get hands on with the amazing kit the university has to offer and just try things. You are very unlikely to get as much free time to just learn about these different technologies when on a real site so take this unique opportunity to just emerse yourself in it while you can.

What was the process of getting to where you are today?

After graduation I used my LinkedIn network to find my position when I first started I was mainly based on the prep side getting to learn more about how each piece of kit works and how to properly maintain it. Since then I have moved onto balancing this with work on different sites now assisting in the build and operation of shows and installs.