Written by Ewan Daruvalla
“HSDC really helped me to understand the workings of the industry.” These are the words from past Acting student Matthew Harrison, who states that his favourite part of his HSDC experience was his lecturers.
Matthew studied a BTEC National Diploma in Acting at Havant & South Downs College in 2005. Now making it big in the film industry, Matthew reveals how the ‘incredibly friendly’ lecturers allowed him to exceed at the College.
He said: “The lecturers were always incredibly friendly but always totally honest and forthcoming with their advice, to help harness your talent and push you to the fullest of your potential.”
Locations Assistant Matthew is now working with major film companies on productions such as Wonder Woman and Jurassic World 2. He believes that HSDC gave him a platform to be able to achieve what he’s accomplished.
He continued: “HSDC really helped me to understand the workings of the industry and the collaborative process of being a successful performer and behind the scenes professional.”
Matthew is also a Freelance Writer and Director on award-winning short films, documentaries and media packages. Offering his advice, Matthew advocates that students stay focused and ensure that they don’t get caught up in the College ‘bubble’, as he describes it.
He said: “Work hard and never get caught in the college ‘bubble’ – sometimes you can become complacent, you forget that there’s a whole world of people out there who want exactly what you want, just as bad!
“Take every opportunity that comes your way, practise your craft as often as possible and always be learning, not just in the classroom.”
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