Mia Tawhiao-Lomas

Bachelor of Creative Technologies (Game Art)

Cultural heritage: Māori (Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Hikairo) 

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Hobbies/Interests: Video games, art, music, languages, travelling, te ao Māori and dance. 

  

What were you doing before you started studying at Media Design School?  

I was working full-time in a graphic design and customer service role for a small family business in Melbourne for a year. Before that I was living with whānau in Tauranga for a year after studying 2D animation for two years. 

  

What do you enjoy most about studying at MDS?  

I love how varied my course is and the lecturers at MDS are awesome too! The new building is very neat as well. 

 

What advice do you have for students wanting to study at MDS?  

My advice would be to try your best and stay on top of your mahi (work), and don't be afraid to ask peers or staff for help. Keep yourself motivated and inspired by surrounding yourself with the right people and reminding yourself of the personal goals you want to achieve. 

  

Who has been a positive influence on you, both personally and in your studies?   

A positive influence for me would be the lecturers at MDS as they are very passionate about what they do and it's very motivating for me personally and within my studies too. 

  

What were some of the initial challenges you faced when you entered your study?  

It was a bit hard initially due to COVID and the learning curve for certain topics/software was difficult on top of that, but I managed in the end. 

  

What support has helped you during your time at MDS so far?  

During COVID last year and especially before the first lockdown MDS were very quick to act and move things online. Additionally, they were very helpful and understanding of students’ situations during those difficult times. 

  

What do you hope to do once you finish your studies?  

I hope to join a studio or work on projects that are focused on creating content based on/promoting te ao Māori and indigenous cultures. Or I wouldn't mind travelling to work for an overseas studio and/or doing freelance work! 

Mia Tawhiao-Lomas