Griffith Film School graduate Rachel Shapiro is living her dream – helping to bring Australia’s top TV shows to life.
Since graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor of Film and Screen Media Production, Rachel has worked as a senior sound assistant on four seasons of The Block, Lego Masters and countless sport broadcasts, including the Big Bash League and PGA Championships.
“I love working in the TV industry – it has always been my dream,” she said.
“Every job is a lot of fun and I work with great people.”
Rachel said the unique opportunities she was given at Griffith Film School paved the way for a successful career in the industry.
While at Griffith, Rachel completed internships with broadcaster NEP during the Rio Olympics and the Commonwealth Games, thanks to the university’s industry partnerships.
“The NEP internships changed everything for me,” she said.
“I was working on broadcasts that had a global audience of more than a billion people.
“It enabled me to make contacts and gain industry experience – both of which helped me achieve my ultimate goal of working in the sound department of a television network.”
Her advice to current students is simple.
“Make sure you do work experience before graduating, and get those contacts,” she said.
“If you’re motivated, kind, and have a sense of humour, you shouldn’t have any issues sticking with a job once you get the chance.”
Film students have the opportunity to pursue industry projects through LiveLab, the commercial production arm of Griffith Film School.
Griffith is the only university in Australia with a permanent in-house commercial studio. With programs covering film, television, animation, multimedia and games design, it is now Australia’s largest film school.