Robert Rowe
I have my mom to thank for directing me to Lake Washington Technical Academy at Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC). I struggled during my public high school years and, upon her advice, visited the Kirkland campus. What surprised me was that The Academy offered both a high school and a college education simultaneously. I knew if I played my cards right I'd receive my high school diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Multi-Media Design and Production (MMDP). How could I refuse such a deal!
The Academy, as it turned out, was no easy walk in the park. Advanced mathematics classes presented a big challenge, especially polynomials. However, I discovered trigonometry to be more interesting and definitely more useful in my chosen field.
I've loved 3D animation since I got my first 3D program - Milkshape 3D. Prior to entering The Academy, I began winning awards in my high school's Student Art Showcase. During my Academy years, I utilized this expertise to organize an art showcase of LWTC students' work. More opportunities arose, as I also designed my own graduation pamphlet, helped fellow Academy students with their artwork during the human life drawing sessions and tutored college students in Maya programming. At the request of LWTC's President Metke, I spoke to investors about the numerous educational and employment benefits offered by The Academy
I'm happy to report that LWTC's guidance and instruction in the area of 3D has landed me a job in Eastern Washington making characters and environments for a historical 3D animation. As I look to the future, my goals are twofold. I'd love to return to Seattle and model characters for video games or video animations. I also see myself teaching a class at the college to share my experiences with the younger generation.
A special thanks goes to Academy instructors John Gabriel, Jason Maccoy, Bobby Julag-ay, Michele Martinez, Martie Ovitt, Glynna Lee, and Kim Infinger who played a major role in my success today.
I highly recommend Lake Washington Technical Academy to any high school student who wishes a head start and a solid education with valuable hands-on experience.
And finally...once again...Thank you, Mom!
Ek Panatkool
I've always had a great imagination. My creativity, plus my solid background as an architect in my home country of Thailand, fit right into my next course of study - Animation/Game Design.
I graduated in Thailand in the year 2000 and started work as a freelance architect. That led to a one-year contract to work for the Thai government as a National Park Architect. I was responsible for design site planning, circulation, and zoning of Thailand's national parks. My job took me to beautiful places throughout the country, which was fulfilling...at first! However, every three weeks I would have to re-pack my backpack and move to a different national park location. I recall one dismal time when I survived for a week deep in a forest due to torrential rains and landslides blocking my way out. Despite that exciting episode, two years ago I left Thailand feeling bored with my job and seeking a new challenge. I followed my adventuresome nature, which led me to a friend's home in Seattle and to a new experience in the United States.
Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) came highly recommended by another friend, the owner of Thumra Thai Restaurant in Totem Lake. Animation/Game Design was a field I've been interested in for some time and was thrilled to find LWTC's program.
I'm preparing to become a 3D animator, and feel it relates well to my knowledge of architecture and to my imaginative curiosity. The students at LWTC have provided a friendly, warm environment in which to learn English, which I struggle with daily. My instructors have created a stress-free climate where I can gain the animation skills I need. I'm also required to give presentations which help to improve my English as well as enhance my knowledge of animation.
After graduation, I plan to return to Thailand and open my own small business using special effects and architecture...a good combination!...a great adventure!
Nathan Oquist
Like my brother Isaac in the LWTC software development program at Lake Washington Technical Academy, I benefit from the education I'm getting at Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC). The bonus for me is that I like the maturity level of the adult students who attend the college, and enjoy learning and mingling with them.
Because of my creative nature and long-time hobby of drawing, I decided that Multimedia Design and Production would be the perfect major for me. I'm taking various multimedia classes including layout and design color theory, along with computer animation.
I also study digital video production while working 10 to 20 hours a week at a bookstore. Since I'm hardly a math whiz and struggle with a reading disability, Math and English remain my courses to conquer. Despite these challenges, I made the Dean's List for academics in winter of 2003 and will graduate in spring of 2005.
I see myself some day working in my field of study, buying a house, and getting married. With brother Isaac's love of rock climbing, and my interest in kayaking and roller blading, we both manage to stay busy, healthy, and balanced.
