Reflection Report #5: Academe – Industry Linkage: GC-CCS Meets Top Draw Animation

I. Details of the event/activity

On November 15, 2022, the Top Draw Animation Studio came to Gordon College and gave career talk on life in animation to the students of the College of Computer Studies Department. During the event, Dr. Erlinda S. Casela-Abarintos, the Vice President of Administration and Finance, as well as the Department Dean, gave the opening remarks. Prof. Arlinda M. Pame, Dr. Imelda DP. Soriano, and Dr. Darwin P. Paguio gave their special message to the delegates. This is followed by the career talk, which was led by Ms. Kleyr Chainani, Chief People Officer of Top Draw Animation, and Mr. Russell Hicks, the President and CEO of the Top Draw Animation Studio. The graduating class of the Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing (BSEMC) showcase their capstone projects and their other works.

II. Reflections on the webinar/activity give rise to (learnings)

From the inspiring career talk, I learned that being passionate in creating is the first thing to consider in the animation industry. Animation is indeed a tedious process and if you do not love making animations, then it will not just affect your output but it will affect you.

III. Reflections on possibilities of implementing some of the webinar input on a practical level (Practical application of learnings)

The seminar was a fine encounter for us students who are majoring in Digital Animation. What Mr. Russell Hicks told us made a mark in my heart. Be passionate and continue working on what you love to do, regardless of what anyone tells you.

IV. Positive feedback (on the event organization)

The PH Nyx did a great job in organizing this event. They made a bridge between the animation industry and the school, who just started to offer an animation program.

V. Suggestions for improvements to be made/consider for future activities

I suggest that the event prioritized the students form the BSEMC and ACT program. The school’s function hall cannot take students from all of the programs of the department.