Personal Statement

Nick Warner – Personal Statement

The last year has been a vast and needed change in trajectory for me. Adjusting from life within a grammar school environment at RGS High Wycombe to Film Studies at Amersham College has allowed me to explore a subject I have always been passionate about but never had the opportunity to pursue. Thanks to my previous studies, I have developed a greater understanding of my core subjects, which gave me the confidence to take a risk into my chosen field. Excelling in Graphic Design at GCSE level focused me towards the creative industry. I have gained skills in branding, idea generation and developed an overall fascination and understanding into the crafts of other artists and creators. My jump away from the grammar school was unorthodox, nonetheless this was the greatest shift for me personally. Those additional couple of years before adulthood were a perfect place in life to learn the basics of the creative industry and find my feet as a creator rather than traditional academic.

The language of TV and film has always been a dominant feature of my life. My parents introduced me to their favourite classics at a young age and through my own learnings, the medium has been there to support in terms of escapism, global context and a fuel of imagination. It always intrigued me how these projects go from an idea through rewrites, shoots and edits before appearing onscreen as a product of hard work and fellowship. It amazes me that in a world of conflict and cynicism, creators are able to bring the masses together in celebration of collaborative storytelling. Everyone from the director to the actors, producers, camera operators, riggers, runners and craft service are as integral to the filming process and outcome and to be any cog in this wheel is my dream.

Studies in the classroom have allowed for debates, auteur analysis, project research and delivery. I have thrived in my own accord, managing to secure myself industry work experience at a sound mixing desk, alongside self-organised projects for clients, filming and editing, without the college’s assistance. In my free time, I’m able to prove my worth as a creator, travelling and experiencing stories worth telling. Over time, this has given me the opportunity to expand my work beyond a portfolio website to social media platforms such as YouTube and Spotify Podcasters, broadening my breadth of media capabilities and storytelling variations. 

Furthermore, it’s in this time outside of general studies when I’ve taken time to progress socially and advance additional skills and hobbies. I have pushed myself physically competing in fencing championships alongside musically advancing on the clarinet, feeding into my devotion to musical theatre, working both onstage and behind the scenes on several productions. Since early childhood, I have excelled and thrived within the scouting movement to master survival and domestic abilities. Scouting has enabled me to travel internationally and meet and collaborate with young people from across the world. All of these interests have shaped me into a rounded individual, increasing my confidence socially and physically. When surrounded by others, I have earnt my place as a strong leader and empath, willing to support others in times of mental and physical struggle.  

By progressing in the tv and film industry, I aim to learn my craft from experienced creators and move into positions those around me deem necessary to enhance my own growth and support those around me. I have always been a practical learner as opposed to pure academia. Challenges from the grammar school have helped push   my mental limits, allowing me to thrive in both atmospheres. Progression through the TV and film industry will move as fast as I prove my dedication and optimism towards the craft. A fundamental asset of mine is a constant willingness to learn and accept challenge to grow my knowledge, capabilities and understanding. There is always something new to learn and I stand ready to face it, no matter the outcome.