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Alokananda Dasgupta

Alokananda Dasgupta

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 […]

Luis Ramirez

Luis Ramirez

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

Dusty Mancinelli

Dusty Mancinelli

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 […]

Madeleine Sims-Fewer

Madeleine Sims-Fewer

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 […]

Yong Zong

Yong Zong

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

Pranay Noel

Pranay Noel

My professors at York had a lasting impact on my creative practice as a picture editor and filmmaker. I even had the pleasure of their mentorship and feedback on Still Single, premiering at TIFF. Finding the balance between serving the vision of directors and producers, while being a constructive and tenacious creative force, was a […]

Maya Bankovic

Maya Bankovic

I came to film school to find people to make work with. Almost twenty years since graduating, I still work with a large number of York alums. It’s no surprise, since this school tends to attract people seeking more radical ways to make films, and not just formulaic imitations. Maya Bankovic (BFA ’07) Award-Winning Cinematographer, […]

Nicolás Pereda

Nicolás Pereda

I had several amazing professors at AMPD who completely changed the way I think about cinema. But perhaps the greatest influence came from my peers. It still amazes me how many talented filmmakers I had the chance to go to school with. Nicolás Pereda (BFA ’05, MFA ’07) Director and Screenwriter with films shown at […]

Benjamin Gillespie

Benjamin Gillespie

What I valued most during my time in York’s undergraduate and graduate Theatre programs was the excellent mentorship I received from faculty who deeply shaped my path as a scholar, and the opportunity to engage with advanced courses in theatre and drama that challenged me to think critically and creatively about the field. Benjamin Gillespie, […]

Angela Li

Angela Li

York University’s design program introduced me to design in all its forms—across industries and influential movements—while giving me the tools to hone my craft. It taught me to see design’s influence everywhere, from the smallest details to the largest cultural shifts. This program didn’t just shape my career—it sparked a love for design that continues […]