As part of induction week, new students were welcomed to Screen, an event designed to introduce Film, TV and Animation students to their journey at Westminster.
During the event, students received a welcome from Head of College, Janet Jones, who highlighted the importance of developing skills in new technologies. She emaphasised that the most crucial skills revolve around the art of storytelling through screens and other media channels. She encouraged the next generation of screen professionals to refine these narrative skills as they will remain significant throughout their careers.
Held at our Regent Street Cinema, the event featured a screening of two films highlighting the cinema’s rich history, alongside student projects and collaborations with the cinema itself. The event concluded with the screening of “Scrapper,” a feature film that premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival and earned the Grand Jury Prize for the World Cinema Dramatic Competition.
We had the opportunity to catch up with some of our new Film students from both our undergraduate and postgraduate courses to hear about why they chose to study Film at Westminster and their aspirations for their time at Westminster and beyond.
Why did you choose to study your course?
Ruby Downing-Martin (Film BA): Before embarking on this course, I had a very basic knowledge of filmmaking and, aspired to expand my understanding through a combination of academic learning and practical experience and developing a professional mindset.
Grace Stuttard (Film BA): I chose to study Film BA because I think the arts are extremely valuable and Film is, in my opinion, one of the best mediums through which to create art.
Harriet Thuku (Business of Film MA): I chose this course, as I would like to understand further the business aspect of film. In particular, learning more about the funding and marketing aspects of the industry. I am also looking forward to being able to place African stories on the map. This is important to me, as growing up, I was exposed to films from other established cultures as opposed to Kenya, where I am from. Although the film industry in Africa such as Nollywood is rapidly growing, I think it would be wonderful to have other people from from different parts of the world engage or learn more about our culture and I’d love to be a part of this.
Shiwei Li (Film, TV and Moving Image MA): I selected this course for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I have a great interest in film curation and distribution and would like to explore potential career paths in this field.
Secondly, the University of Westminster boasts a longstanding reputation for excellence in film media. I am intrigued by the prospect of immersing myself in an academic environment known for its achievements in this area.
2. Why did you choose the University of Westminster?
Ruby Downing-Martin (Film BA): While exploring potential courses, Westminster stood out to me right from the beginning. Its accelerated and comprehensive course outline, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities, instantly appealed to my academic and professional aspirations.
Chandana Chandran (Business of Film): In researching universities that specialise in film business , I found that Westminster’s course precisely aligns with my goals and interests. The opportunity to study on a course offered by a renowned institution like the University of Westminster, in collaboration with the British Film Institute and Regent Street Cinema, is a prospect any aspiring film student would consider an honour. What particularly drew me to this program is its comprehensive curriculum, coupled with real-world experiences and networking opportunities. The prospect of learning from seasoned professionals who have made significant contributions in various roles within the industry is genuinely exciting.
Harriet Thuku (Business of Film MA): This is a new course, developed in collaboration with the British Film Institute, offering a unique educational experience. The University boasts a strong culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that values and respects differences. Moreover, the course provides ample opportunities to enhance my work experience, aligning with my goal of gaining practical insights and expanding my skillset during my academic journey.
Shunfeng Jin (Film, TV and Moving Image MA): I received offers from other Universities in other cities. However, after careful consideration, I chose the University of Westminster. Both my instinct and the advice of friends emphasised the importance of being in the right city. I decided to choose Westminster because of the opportunity it provides to live and study in this vibrant metropolis. Additionally, Westminster’s emphasis on industrial connections, job placement, and the outstanding features of this course align with my personal aspirations.
3. What are you most looking forward to whilst being a student at Westminster?
Ruby Downing-Martin (Film BA): As a student at Westminster, I look forward to learning how to effectively collaborate with creative freedom, enabling me to explore diverse ideas, various working methods, and different professional roles.
Chandana Chandran (Business of Film MA): I am looking forward to being based in London and the UK, a hub for numerous significant international film studios and production firms. The multicultural society in the UK will expose me to many cultures and viewpoints. This exposure will aid my understanding of the sector and aid in the production of distinctive and memorable films that contribute to both entertainment and social change. The university of Westminster provides its Film students with the support and experience needed to connect to the UK film industry and other industries across the globe. I am also looking forward to collaborating with fellow students who are passionate about film and come from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
Nela Wozniak (Business of Film MA): I am excited about learning more about the business side of the film industry, networking with industry professionals, and forging lifelong friendships.
Shunfeng Jin (Film, TV and Moving Image MA): I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to come to London for my studies, especially as an artist. Being a student at Westminster holds immense value, providing access to a variety of events at Regent Street Cinema, as well as numerous film festivals and art exhibitions across London. The amount of cultural experiences feels boundless and is something I’m particularly eager to immerse myself in.
Chandana Chandran at London South Bank as part of a course trip to The British Film Institute (BFI) for the London Film Festival. 
Shunfeng at a Cinema Distribution and Exhibition study trip
4. What do you hope to achieve by studying at Westminster?
Grace Stuttard (Film BA): I hope to gain a deeper understanding of film and develop the necessary skills to produce films, operate industry-standard equipment and gain a practical understating of working on a film set.
Chandana Chandran (Business of Film MA): Without a doubt, I am confident that this master’s degree will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need for a successful career in the film business. I am optimistic that the MA will significantly influence my future career as a film industry professional, aligning with my mission to support filmmakers and films from the most remote parts of the world. My goal is to contribute to their global success, both artistically and financially.
Shunfeng Jin (Film, TV and Moving Image MA): Studying at Westminster, I aim to fully utilise my course and tap into the artistic resources that London offers during my time here. As an international student, the essence lies in stepping out of your hometown for education, getting inspired, and crafting beautiful memories and artworks that can be shared and cherished. For now, I am simply grateful that I made this decision.
What are you career aspirations?
Grace Stuttard (Film BA): I aspire to transform my ideas into live projects and collaborate with individuals who inspire me. Through my work, I aim not only to express my creativity but also to inspire others within the industry and beyond.
Chandana Chandran (Business of Film MA): I look forward to supporting independent and regional films by expanding their international market reach. I’m thrilled to join the large and thriving community of film business professionals and filmmakers. I aspire to gain experience with both large and small production houses, studios, and OTT platforms. Ultimately, my goal is to evolve into a film business entrepreneur and establish my own ventures in the realm of filmmaking.
Shunfeng Jin (Film, TV and Moving Image MA): Since childhood, I’ve had the dream of becoming a screenwriter, a passion that has remained unchanged over the past 15 years. I love the idea of telling a good story. A good story is the metaphor of our lives, and it never gets old. I aim to do so throughout my future career.
Eleanor Roseblade, Assistant Head of Westminster’s School of Media and Communication said “We are delighted and thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the incoming cohort of students joining our Film courses. Our courses are designed with a practical focus, aiming to equip students with the essential tools and knowledge required for success in their chosen roles and industries.
During their time at Westminster, we encourage our students to make the most of the numerous advantages associated with studying Film with us. These include our impressive industry connections and partnerships, access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, and the guidance of our esteemed academics who are well-regarded in their respective fields.
We look forward to supporting and witnessing their academic and creative journey and hope they thoroughly enjoy your time at Westminster.”
About Westminster
As one of the most diverse universities in the UK, we are a global university with London energy, with more than 19,000 students from 169 countries.
Visit our website to find out more about our Film, TV and Animation courses.
