From Middlesex to EA SPORTS: My journey into Motion Graphics

When I first started studying BA Graphic Design at Middlesex University, I already knew I was a creative person with lots of ideas. The course helped me learn how to refine those ideas and develop them through research and experimentation, then turn them into pieces of work that I was genuinely proud of. It also taught me to be much more critical of my own work. Looking back, I can see so many things that I would never have noticed if it wasn't for the guidance and feedback from the lecturers throughout the course.

How Middlesex prepared me for the motion graphics industry

One of the biggest ways the degree prepared me for the motion graphics industry was by teaching me how to work under pressure. The industry moves quickly and university helped me learn how to experiment efficiently without getting stuck on a single idea. It also gave me the confidence to communicate with clients, lecturers and peers professionally, preparing me for the collaborative nature of working in a creative studio.

The industry opportunity that changed my career

The opportunity to join the motion graphics agency came through my programme leader and lecturer, Michael Wright. He has been an incredible mentor throughout my time at Middlesex and I genuinely feel that so much of my growth, both in terms of my creative skills and my patience as a designer, came from his teaching. Being recommended by someone I look up to meant a lot to me. Michael also knew how passionate I was about esports and that side of the creative industry, so he thought the opportunity would suit me well. From there, I got in touch with the agency, sent over my portfolio and was invited for an interview.

From the classroom to major sporting events

Working in the industry has taught me an incredible amount in a short space of time. I'm definitely not the same designer I was six months ago. I've learned that every project involves a lot of trial and error and that delivering high quality work often means working to very tight deadlines. Thankfully, Middlesex had already prepared me for that environment. Since joining the agency, I've had the opportunity to contribute to projects for major companies and sporting events, including Roland Garros, Wimbledon and EA SPORTS. Being trusted to work on projects of that scale has been surreal and has given me a huge boost in confidence.

The partnership between the BA Graphic Design course and the agency opened a door that, at one point, I thought was closed. Like many graduates, I was anxious about the current job market. Breaking into the creative industry as a junior designer without professional experience can feel incredibly difficult. I'm grateful that the agency believed in me and gave me the opportunity to prove myself. I worked hard for this opportunity and I hope this partnership continues to create similar opportunities for future Middlesex students.

Working on EA SPORTS and Netflix projects

One of the highlights of my journey so far has been contributing graphics for content on the EA app and helping create stadium screen graphics for the Netflix Fury vs. Makhmudov boxing event. Seeing work that I helped create appear on such projects this big has been an unforgettable experience. Every project has pushed me creatively and helped me continue developing my skills.

My advice for students starting out

My biggest piece of advice for current BA Graphic Design students is to start building your portfolio as early as possible. Focus on quality rather than quantity. It's tempting to include everything you've ever made, but it's much more important to showcase the projects you're genuinely passionate about and proud of. If you're early in your degree, I'd also encourage you to look for work experience whenever you can. It will help prepare you for the industry and give you confidence before you graduate. Most importantly, if you genuinely love what you do, keep pushing yourself and don't give up. Passion, hard work and persistence really can take you further than you imagine.