James
Frost

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I made the decision to go to NTU to study Esports Production because of the resources offered to the students in the form of high-end facilities/technologies and teaching being given by those with years of industry experience. Additionally, being able to attend industry week and connect with individuals currently working in the profession I was studying to get into seemed extremely valuable.

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

Connecting with the passionate teaching staff and collaborating on events as a team of students and teachers to put-on high-quality events.

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

The facilities I was taught in are some of the best in the broadcast education space, as they feature technologies used by professionals and allow for the learning of workflows used in high end professional productions. During my work in the industry, I regularly encounter scenarios where I use the technological fundamentals I learned during my days as a student.

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

During my time as a student, I worked on a large number of events that were held at NTU, from student lead projects to external high-profile shows. These were invaluable as they taught me skills I use in my day-to-day work, both dealing with tech and with people/clients.

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

During my time as a student, I had many opportunities to do freelance work due to connections made through NTU. These enhanced the quality of the work I was able to put out in both my studies and future professional work I undertook and were hugely beneficial.

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

I currently work as a Multi Skilled Operator at the Riot Games RBC in Dublin, which requires me to be flexible across a multitude of different projects and roles, fulfilling requests made by the client (Riot Games). In this role, I can go from engineer to front row operator based on the request made for a project.

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?

I would say I gained and developed several key skills during my time at NTU ranging from time management and working under pressure to communication skills, critical problem solving and technical creativity/innovation.

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

Take advantage of any and all opportunities that are available to you, have a positive/collaborative attitude at all times and do not be afraid to ask questions to those with more experience in the profession.

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

Putting in the work is the main answer, but I would say having passion for what you are doing makes any work many times easier (and more enjoyable!). I also wouldn’t be where I am without the other passionate people I have met and worked with during and since my time as a student - being able to work with others in a creative art is perhaps the most important skill I utilize, and something that every student should focus on developing.