AMPD Testimonials

York has given me incredible opportunities to explore a wide range of theatre practices. This year, I’m taking classes in directing, playwriting, performing, devising and theatre studies. I truly feel that AMPD is preparing me for a successful, fulfilling career as an employable artist. One of the most exciting experiences I've had was participating in the student-run playGround Festival.

Charlie VanStone

Third-year Theatre Student

I love how flexible my program is. There’s such a wide range of courses to explore, from contemporary art to works from the very beginning of art history. I also love being able to connect with BFA students and build friendships and professional relationships with other artists like me. The field trips and on-campus galleries, like the Goldfarb Art Gallery and the Archives of Ontario, make learning feel so hands-on and inspiring. It’s exciting to be surrounded by art and creativity every day.

Jocelyn Bourgeois

Third-year Visual Arts & Art History Student

I love my program. It’s been amazing to explore so many different mediums and ways of creating. The community at AMPD is so friendly and creative, you just love being here. If you don’t want to be limited to one medium and you have ideas you want to bring to life, this is the place to do it. Whether you’re just starting out or already experienced, you’ll learn so much and have an amazing time.

Athena Philippou

Fourth-year Media Arts Student

The environment here is incredibly supportive. AMPD gives students access to hands-on tools from sensors and programmable hardware to 3D printing at the Makerspace. The community is welcoming and collaborative, and it’s helped me grow both artistically and technically in ways I never expected.

Seila Bak

Fourth-year Digital Media student

York changed everything. My studies at AMPD reignited my curiosity, turning my confusion into exploration. The mentorship I received helped mend the invisible gap between me and my potential. My professors showed me that I didn’t need to be a virtuoso pianist to have a voice in music. I could shape my own path, create my own role and build a life in music that felt authentic to me.

Alokananda Dasgupta (BFA Music ’09)

Award-Winning Film Composer (Netflix, Amazon Prime)

Read our feature on Alokananda’s journey.

The music faculty at York University were dedicated professionals who provided invaluable guidance during my studies. Their expertise helped me build a strong foundation that I now draw upon in my current role. 

Luis Ramirez (PhD ’24)

Assistant Professor of Music Theory, Brandon University

While studying at AMPD, my film professor Tereza Barta once told me my script was terrible, and it was maybe the best thing she could have done. It helped me realize how important criticism is if you ever want your work to get better.

Dusty Mancinelli (BFA ’07)

Screenwriter, Director and Producer. Several films shown at TIFF, including a feature film in 2025, with work also featured at Sundance, Berlinale and BFI London, earning recognition and awards worldwide.

The people we met that have since become collaborators is undoubtedly the most valuable thing. We met our Director of Photography at AMPD, and he has shot every one of our films since we began working together. As a young filmmaker, I had no idea what my voice was or what I had to say that was at all interesting or unique. Professor John Greyson was instrumental in guiding me towards finding the stories inside me and exploring what I had that was distinctive.

Madeleine Sims-Fewer (BFA ’08)

Actor, Director and Screenwriter. Several films shown at TIFF, including a feature film in 2025, following recognition at festivals such as Sundance and Berlinale.

From amazing professors to the fellow classmates who I continue to collaborate with to this day, my experience and friendships at York have been very important in my journey.

Yong Zong (MFA ’18)

Editor and Filmmaker, with work featured at TIFF in 2025