Digital Media Careers

Soolim Sohn

Web Designer, Salt Design, Auckland
Country: Korea
MDS Diploma of Digital Media graduate

A recommendation from a friend (who studied 3D at Media Design School) led Soolim Sohn to visit MDS for an initial tour; the main thing that struck her was the level of creativity going on in the students digital media work.

“I was shown a few example of past students’ work and was really impressed. I decided to take the course (Diploma of Digital Media) because I saw how they can teach us to meet industry standards without jeopardizing our creativity.”

Even though English was Soolim’s second language this didn’t hinder her at all when it came time to finding work after she graduated, as she was so adept with the necessary tools for a career in Digital Media.

“From MDS, I learnt a lot of practical skills that are essential in order to survive in the web design industry, and I became very confident in handling programmes such as Flash, Dreamweaver and Photoshop. English is my second language but this didn’t hinder me in the job hunting process because I knew I was very equipped with all these skills in my bag. I was employed soon after the course. I think MDS really tackled what the industry standard is so we are very well-prepared and very employable. They helped me a great deal in the job hunting process too because MDS has a very good graduate support network.”

Further to learning the software programmes was the emphasis on teamwork and bonding with classmates and tutors through shared experiences. These connections remain strong after graduating, and the networks Soolim established at MDS are an integral part of her working and social life.

“Whilst at MDS, I didn’t only learn the skills I need for the digital media industry. I learnt how to work in a team and formed some strong friendships with schoolmates while we took the course together. Because the web industry is evolving all the time with new programming language and new tricks to be learnt, it’s very nice to have a support network formed between the students so we can always ask each other questions.”

Having in worked in Korea before coming to New Zealand, Soolim has found there are some real differences in the culture and mentality the workplace. She is pretty happy here with her career as a Web Designer for now though.

“I really like my job at Salt Design as a web designer. I’m finally getting paid to do what I enjoy doing. My job also allows me to stay in New Zealand and experience a life style that is totally different from the one I had in Korea. I find the working culture very different between the two countries. It’s a lot more relaxing in New Zealand in comparison. I can now balance my work and life outside of work a lot better because there is less stress. I find living and working in New Zealand very enjoyable.”