AMPD Testimonials

What I really love about this program is the network that you create with your classmates. From first year all the way to fourth year you're with a great group of students that you'll spend time with both in and outside of the classroom. As a Film student, I also really appreciate being able to take courses outside my own discipline.

Chifundo Thangata

Fourth-year Production student

International Student - Kenya

My first-year experience as a theatre and performance student was transformational. Sure, I had heard of York’s reputation as one of the best theatre schools around, though I was not aware of how comprehensive it was, from hands-on tech and design to a deeper understanding of theatre and performance. What amazed me was the collaborative nature, working with peers in a spontaneous whirlwind of creativity. It was electric and eclectic.

William Kerr

First-year Theatre Student  

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

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

AMPD has really helped me grow as both a painter and an artist. I’ve learned so much from professors who are actively working in the field, so they’re up-to-date with what’s happening in the industry. I feel really prepared to create my portfolio and apply for future job opportunities.

Karina M

Fourth-year student, Visual Arts - Art History (BA)

Learning the technical skills that are part of computer science gave me the backbone to create. I'm able to express my creative ideas in new ways, it's opened many doors for me in academia and personal projects.

Amir B

Digital Media Student 

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.

My time in York University's CMA program at AMPD was foundational to the way I work and collaborate today. I was drawn to the program because of its hands-on approach and the opportunity to explore a variety of paths within the film and media industry. From day one, I was surrounded by like-minded creatives who challenged and inspired me. One of the things I valued most was the chance to try on many different hats: writing for TV, directing fiction, cinematography, picture editing. Today, I approach filmmaking from a place of community building, and it's this program that taught me how to build and maintain strong professional relationships, something the film industry is built on. I’m especially grateful for the time and feedback my professors gave me on my work. Their encouragement allowed me the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them, which was crucial to my development.

Eric Bizzarri (BFA '17)

Co-Founder and CEO, Future of Film Showcase

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