Diana Solórzano

MA Film, 2015

Tell us a bit about what you’ve been doing since graduating.

As soon as I finished my studies at university I travelled to Guapi, a remote little town in Colombia, Latin America. I was following the story of a documentary I am producing and directing and I did the pre-production in Guapi. I presented the first 30 minutes of the 90 minute documentary as my MA Film dissertation project and I am really keen to finish it.

At the moment I am back in the UK, looking for an exciting job position within the media industry with the aim of updating my film knowledge as well as getting valuable experience which I can apply to my documentary work.

What drew you to this industry and what do you enjoy about it?

My background was as a Business Administrator, but I was given the opportunity to work as a TV presenter, which made me realise how wonderful and thrilling the media industry is.

I think media is a powerful tool to persuade, to teach, to learn, to showcase places, situations and environments, to see the wild, the justice and the injustices of the world. It is a lovely way to access the unknown, the unfamiliar and to tell peoples stories and to share thoughts. I am passionate about film and how it can show a real situation or maybe show the way you see life and perhaps, just perhaps, generate a positive influence.

What drove you to do a postgraduate degree at Middlesex?

The MA Film course offers practical and theoretical learning within a wide range of creative industries. This is what initially caught my attention. In addition, the master´s enables you to explore your own film interests and produce work that will benefit your individual ambitions. These were the two main reasons that I chose the MA Film course.

I think it is marvellous that Middlesex University supports local communities, contributing with more than £242m to the local economy. An added advantage of Middlesex University is that it has an impressive network of 180 academic partners to deliver academic excellence, to ensure that every student has access to the very latest thinking and cutting edge research.

How have you been able to use what you learnt at Middlesex since you graduated?

As I mentioned before, after graduating I successfully completed the pre-production of my first feature. In the making of the production and post-production stages, I was able to put into practice every skill I gained from the course.

What did you enjoy most about your master’s at Middlesex?

I enjoyed having the opportunity to meet great people; very kind and always helpful staff, as well as highly knowledgeable and professional lecturers.

The modern facilities offer great support to students, especially the editing suites and well-maintained film equipment.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone hoping to follow a similar career path to you?

If you are going to study, try your best and try hard while you are at university. Achieving high grades and producing outstanding work is only part of your studies. Make the most out of the time you spend with your fellow students, technicians, lectures, etc. Make friendships for life, get involved in projects, build professional relationships and networks, try to contribute with something positive and enjoy! That is what really matters.

PS: It is going to be tough, so be ready and good luck!!