Matthias Reiche

With a passion for new experiences, Matthais Reiche was attracted to the idea of an international education. Additionally, he wanted a course that could lead to career opportunities in his chosen field. "I always look to do different things experience different countries, meet other nationalities and learn other languages. Studying oversees is the best way to do that. I studied New Media in Berlin and wanted to gain more knowledge in 3D animation, particularly in Maya (an animation software programme). New Zealand sounded very interesting to me - a friend of mine had visited there and after seeing her photo album I decided to go."

Matthais chose to study Media Design School's Diploma in 3D Animation, enjoying the benefits of smaller class sizes and an environment that encouraged creative thought. "Media Design School is small so every lecturer is really accessible. I enjoyed the atmosphere, especially between my classmates. We would often work late into the night to get a project finished, bouncing ideas off each other. I think that's something I appreciate more now that I am working and realise how important a cooperative, supportive environment is.

Compared to what I experienced back in Germany, New Zealand has a much more relaxed lifestyle people are more open-minded. There is not so much bureaucracy, which makes life so much more enjoyable. I also spent time traveling before I began my studies, walking the Abel Tasman, Tongararo, Milford and Rakiura tracks amazing! I also ran the Auckland Marathon (at least half of it!).

I really liked the fact that New Zealand is so rich in Maori culture, while indigenous people in other countries are often pushed aside or forgotten. New Zealand has a healthy balance between all of their people. "

However the greatest benefit of Matthais' time in New Zealand has been the launch of his career as an Animator. "My studies enabled me to get my first job in Animation. Now I can call myself a 3D Animator and can work pretty much anywhere in the world in my field. Currently I'm working in Sydney as a 3D Characther Animator for a company called Drummond Design."