Please state your name, major, and year of graduation.

Gina Gonsalves, Animation MFA 2022

Why did you want to study your major?

I’ve been drawing since I was a toddler and have always found the process of animation fascinating, from ideation to screen. I want to make movies like the ones that have inspired me so much throughout my life.

How do you think SCA will prepare you for the career you want to have?

SCA has amazing faculty who really do everything they can to help you improve as an artist and filmmaker. The amount of encouragement, resources, and real world experiences they share with us is so valuable and helps us get a better idea of what the industry will be like after graduation. The amount of collaboration used amongst fellow students has also greatly helped me expand my knowledge and skills. Everyone is talented in different areas and the environment is incredibly supportive. 

What have been your greatest successes and challenges at school so far?

My greatest challenge since entering SCA has been struggling to trust my creative abilities. I had really bad impostor syndrome when I started, but my greatest success is finally building confidence in myself, my ideas, and my abilities as an animator.

What projects have you worked on that you’re proud of?

I am most proud of the work I have done for my thesis, which I am currently working on. It is something very close to me and I am excited to share it once it is complete. I have put a lot of heart into this project and have used all the skills I’ve developed in the past few years at SCA.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying to SCA?

For those thinking about applying, SCA truly values diversity and individuality. Don’t try to conform to what you think they want to see, be yourself and put your best work forward. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, has different styles and different stories to tell when they come here and it makes the program such a great place to be. Also, don’t stress if you don’t feel you know enough in a certain area of animation; you will be taught everything you need to know and have plenty of opportunities to grow as an artist. Good luck!