Name: Hoching K
Program: Animation
University: University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol)
SI-UK caught up with Hoching, a former student of the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), to hear about their current job in the animation industry, their experience studying in the UK and advice they would give to anyone considering doing the same.
What is your job role?
My last job was as a junior Storyboard Artist at Gutsy Animations in Bristol. The studio runs the production of Moominvalley Season 4.
What drew you to the animation industry?
I really liked watching cartoons as a child and still enjoy it to this day. One day while I was watching a cartoon that I particularly liked, I had an alarming realisation that what I was watching was probably made by a very dedicated team of people- a team of people who had to work tirelessly day and night so others could watch this cartoon. I find that attitude inspiring, and seeing what potential for storytelling animation has, I decided to try it out.
Why did you study animation in the UK?
There are more resources and experience to be found in the UK in terms of animation than in Hong Kong. And I wanted to travel outside of my home to broaden my mind.
Why UWE Bristol?
I wanted to leave home and see more of the world. The UWE animation showreel made me believe that the course is where experimentation and creativity are put above everything else, so I enrolled.
How did UWE Bristol prepare you for the world of work?
During my studies, there were lectures from guest animators who told us about different aspects of the animation industry (whether it's storyboarding or making stop-motion puppets). The university also puts up a bulletin board of jobs in the hallway, where students can find all sorts of briefs and volunteering opportunities.
I have made good friends who seem to be the most valuable industry contacts that I have gained. Our annual university degree show gave us an excellent opportunity to talk to animation executives and veterans around Bristol. I had a chance to talk to the Head of Rumpus Animations (Joe Wood) during our degree show.
Was your current role the first job following the completion of your degree?
My first job was to direct a short animation film for the BBC on Lunar New Year. It was a 3-month project. The aim was to educate 3 – 9-year-old children on how we celebrate the New Year in Asia. The film was broadcast on CBeebies (children's channel) during the lunar new year in 2023 and can be watched on BBC YouTube channel: Celebrate Lunar New Year 2023 with CBeebies (youtube.com)
What has your experience of the animation industry been like so far?
I think everyone in the industry understands how hard it is to work and thrive in the industry, so everyone is honestly very kind! My colleagues always taught me new techniques and things. Despite all of us having different positions and roles, we try to support each other as much as possible.
Are there any projects that you’ve worked on/are currently working on that you can tell us about?
During my studies, I created two short animated films which went on to get selected into multiple animation festivals in both the UK and international stage. In my spare time now, I will sometimes work on creating short animations or writing story beats and notes for other short film ideas that I have.
What advice would you give to a student interested in studying in the UK?
I think the best advice to give is to keep an open mind about things, and simply try to enjoy your surroundings and the people around you. The most valuable part of the university is the connections and relationships you form with others.
Did you make any mistakes early in your career? If so, how did you learn from them?
I think I was very anxious to make a career for myself in animation and so put a lot of unnecessary stress on myself during my university years. Although it seemed right at the time, the excessive pressure was not the best for my mental health, and now in hindsight, I really would have rather relaxed more and gone out more with friends. Now I try to balance both work and social life so I don’t get lost in either.
What surprised you most while living in the UK? Any culture shocks?
I was very surprised the first time my tutors told me that I could call them by their first names.
Highlights of your time at the University of the West of England Bristol?
It certainly gave me a lot of free reign in regards to what direction I want to take it. I dabbled in a wide range of animation techniques from different workshops and lectures and learned things I would have never considered. I enjoyed interacting with my fellow classmates the most because in some ways they taught me more about what animation is. On many sunny afternoons I would be away with my friends doing animation in an animation room formed one of the best memories of my university life.
Favourite things to do on campus or around the city?
I never get bored art-wise since there are so many different art events going on at once everywhere anywhere in Bristol. I’ve done things from life drawing drag queens to dancing in the streets. There are tons of inspiration everywhere.
Do you feel like you are able to achieve a work-life balance? If so, how do you manage that?
I think I am doing better now than I’ve done before, although my friends still call me out for overworking from time to time. I try to set a few days out that are mostly for socializing and fun, or at least try to separate one day so that work and social life don’t overlap too much.
What does the future hold? What are your long-term career goals?
I want to be a film director for animation! It’s going to take a very, very long time- but I think I can make it.
We would like to thank Hoching for their time and wish them the very best in the animation industry. Any students interested in studying animation in the UK can speak to their SI-UK Consultant who will be to advise on the best options for their program in the UK. If you do not yet have a Consultant then visit here for your free UK university consultation.
