Vancouver Film School

[Akaikami]

Woop! I leave for Vancouver in about 15-20 days or so. Starting 3D Animation/Visual Effects on August 31st.

Hope I can find somewhere to live, haha.

[eldee]

vfs has a decent housing board where you can try to meet up with other people who are looking for roommates. if you can, try to get something downtown near the school (as others have said), commuting is a bitch. I live about as far as you would probably ever want to walk.. off in Yaletown near the stadiums, and it's a good 20-30 minute hike each way.. not pleasant in this heat either I can tell you that. I have a lot of friends who live on the west end and they like it a lot. if you try to get a place by yourself you can expect to pay around $1000 per month or more (my place is ~$1500, plus an additional $150/mo for parking). You can certainly find cheaper places, if you're willing to sublet or find a roommate. If you have to find a place further away from school, try to get a place near one of the skytrain stations. though a couple of friends have been stranded at school a few times because they missed the last skytrain (which runs around 2am i think).

VFS also has an apartment locator.. she doesn't actually work for VFS, but she's married to one of the bigwigs and deals almost exclusively with VFS students, so that counts for something. While I can't personally recommend her (bad experience), I'm sure that I'm in the minority and she normally does a great job.

[Akaikami]

I was considering just staying at a hostel/hotel once I get down there until I find a place. I figure it'll be easier to ride around (bringing my car) and check out some places than it will be to look at them online. Probably going to exhaust options like craigslist and that roommate board you were talking about as well. I posted up two ads on there but haven't gotten any replies yet.

[Pixanaut]

Look for places on Alberi or West Georgia on the west side of Burrard.

Parking is expensive, $200-300/month for secure parking... So plan on that if you stay in a hostel. You'll generally get 1 stall when you actually rent a condo/apartment, which means a roommate with a car will mean getting a second stall at $100(or less)/month.

We rent our second stall off of another person in our building without a car at $60/month.

Edit***** provided you're going to the campus at Hastings and Homer St.****Edit

[JamesMcPhail]

When I moved to vancouver in 2005 I found this website useful www.mywestend.ca (http://www.mywestend.ca) it costs $25 to get access to but they walk around the west end looking for for rent signs. A lot of landlords don't bother listing their places online. If you can come to vancouver without having a place organized you can have a lot of luck just walking around looking for signs.

I just moved out to Burnaby because I wanted a bigger place than my 1 bedroom box downtown. But now I really miss the downtown lifestyle so I'm going to be moving in closer once this lease is up :)

[Akaikami]

God damnit. My cosigner for my student loan ($63,500 USD including everything) for VFS was denied by Sallie Mae. It's odd because I know he has really excellent credit.

I have no other cosigners available so I'm pretty much screwed. And I'm supposed to start at VFS on August 31st.

Any suggestions? I'm so screwed at the moment because I already preemptively quit my job, and my boss already found somebody to replace me. Is there a company that would do student loans for VFS for a US Citizen? VFS told me only Sallie Mae was available to me.

[NetMapel]

That is unfortunate to hear :( I wonder if it is possible for you to just get a regular line of credit from your local banks instead ? They will cost more but you are kind of stuck in a limbo right now.

[Pixanaut]

Man that sucks. Well, if nobody will give you the $63,500... see if you can borrow $25,000, buy an awesome computer, take a year off and work your way through a bunch of DVD's (Gnomon, etc...). You'll probably end up with just as much value, at less than half the cost.

You'll lose the ability to network with other students, but compensate by joining organizations and groups in your area.

Not what you were hoping for, I know... but honestly, it's not a terrible alternative. VFS is expensive, but you really only get out of it what you put into it (i.e. learning on your own).

Good luck with whatever you choose.

[JesseDavis]

Man that sucks. Well, if nobody will give you the $63,500... see if you can borrow $25,000, buy an awesome computer, take a year off and work your way through a bunch of DVD's (Gnomon, etc...). You'll probably end up with just as much value, at less than half the cost.

You'll lose the ability to network with other students, but compensate by joining organizations and groups in your area.

Not what you were hoping for, I know... but honestly, it's not a terrible alternative. VFS is expensive, but you really only get out of it what you put into it (i.e. learning on your own).

Good luck with whatever you choose.

Yea thats a totally awesome alternative :rolleyes:

[Pixanaut]

Yea thats a totally awesome alternative :rolleyes:

Better than being jobless and not doing 3D. At least this gives a year off to do/learn 3D. That is the big advantage to the school system. Outside of that, you're pretty much learning on your own anyways.

Search CGTalk, you'll find many people have opted for the self taught route. You shouldn't need a school to tell you to be at a desk working if it's something that you truly want to do.

Nobody hires you based on the piece of paper that you graduate with... it all comes down to the reel.

[JesseDavis]

Better than being jobless and not doing 3D. At least this gives a year off to do/learn 3D. That is the big advantage to the school system. Outside of that, you're pretty much learning on your own anyways.

Search CGTalk, you'll find many people have opted for the self taught route. You shouldn't need a school to tell you to be at a desk working if it's something that you truly want to do.

Nobody hires you based on the piece of paper that you graduate with... it all comes down to the reel.

Or, he could get a new job, save up money, not have to worry about debt after he finishes school, and learn it while he's working.

Or he could do it your way. Blow $25k on DVD's, have no contacts or references, and no guidance or feedback. But hey, maybe when he wants critiques he can ask cgtalk :lol:.

[Pixanaut]

Or, he could get a new job, save up money, not have to worry about debt after he finishes school, and learn it while he's working.

Or he could do it your way. Blow $25k on DVD's, have no contacts or references, and no guidance or feedback. But hey, maybe when he wants critiques he can ask cgtalk :lol:.

I didn't say blow $25k on DVD's now did I? If you're not driven enough to pursue your passion without a taskmaster, don't for one second think the rest of the world is the same. Plus, $25k invested in hardware, learning materials, and a year off to focus means that it is $25k invested in himself. Which isn't a lot of money. School didn't get me a job afterwards, I did. And learning while working doesn't allow enough focus.

I'm not saying this to devalue the school, in fact I have a fair bit of respect for VFS, having just worked on a short film with them. I'm suggesting it as a way to get him going in 3D right away. After he's done that and gotten into it a little, then maybe he can consider the shorter intensives (if they still offer them). Then finish out the $25k with more self-study.

Someone who quits their job to chase down their dreams isn't going to be happy 'getting a new job, save up money'. Where there's a will, there's a way.

If there's something out there that I want, I go for it. And it's worked pretty darn well for me so far.

JMHO

[eldee]

To some extent I agree.. but DVDs and tutorials will only take you so far. The point of VFS is not to have a taskmaster, as you've pointed out a couple times- since students are given pretty much complete freedom (Though mentors and instructors are there to assist). The point is collaboration, networking, and learning from others; not just instructors. There are hundreds of students all with varying levels of expertise and different background knowledge that you can learn from, which is pretty difficult to do when you're locked in a room by yourself. Getting involved with local groups is all well and good, but unless you live in a cg hub like LA, Vancouver, etc, that may prove fairly difficult.

However, in a situation like this, options are limited. You've gotta do what you've gotta do. Take a step back, come up with a plan, and carry it out as best you can. If a school like VFS has suddenly been ruled out as an option, then look at the alternatives. In this case Pixanaut's suggestion may be the only way under the circumstances, and maybe not. VFS is certainly not a golden ticket into the industry.. it can give you a leg up, but like Pixanaut says, the VFS logo isn't necessarily going to get you any interviews, just some inside contacts that might get you some second looks at your reel. If your reel sucks, it doesn't matter where you went to school. In the end, all you have to realize is that where there's a will, there's a way. Make it happen.

[Akaikami]

Are there any other schools similar to VFS that offer a fast paced year long program? If it were in the US it'd be easier getting loans for it.

[Khannalxy'tys]

How about Gnomon?

[eldee]

gnomon is the only school that comes to mind in the US that is similar. There's Ringling, but it's very animation-oriented. There are other schools of course, but they are generally longer programs.

[Akaikami]

Mailing out my application for Gnomon today. After comparing the two I have to say Gnomon is looking pretty good. Workload just as intense, pretty much the same price possibly cheaper considering I can apply for financial aid through FAFSA, program lasts a year longer, and the weather will be different than what I'm used to in the northeast :P

Never really thought of Gnomon but reviewing their certificate program and from speaking to a few people who went there it looks fairly promising. Of course anywhere for me is fine as long as I get a year or two to really light my ass on fire and get a kickass portfolio/reel.

[z3phon]

I'm thinking about doing the 3d animation and Visual effects program from VFS. I've read in this thread that students can use whatever software want to, but as I have access to both Maya and XSI at work. I want to take the time and already familiarize myself with one of them. Which software would it be better to focus on and start learning already if I want to prepare myself for VFS.

[eldee]

I can apply for financial aid through FAFSA
double check on that, because Gnomon is a private school and I don't think it qualifies for FAFSA. That would be awesome if it does though.
Which software would it be better to focus on and start learning already if I want to prepare myself for VFS.
Maya

[hexygen]

z3phon - VFS stopped supporting XSI as far as I know. New students are learning only Maya.
But you can still familiarize yourself with XSI now and then you'll know both, since at school you will start from the very basics. Whether it's recommended or not really depends on your adaptability...


About Gnomon, another option in the US is Fullsail, even though I'm not sure how good they are compared to the others.

[z3phon]

Thanks eldee & hexygen.

[succuby]

Hi there

anyone starting 31st August?

[NetMapel]

Hi there

anyone starting 31st August?
See you at school ;) But I won't be starting until next year, haha...

[pentexplorer]

anyone starting in this October intake, pm me!

[bishtmahesh]

Hey Guys..

can anyone tell me little bit abt he digital character animation course at Vfs..? and also which is better Sheridan or Vfs.


Thanks
MB

[tuddel]

Hey Guys..

can anyone tell me little bit abt he digital character animation course at Vfs..? and also which is better Sheridan or Vfs.


Thanks
MB

vfs doesnt give work permit.i dont know if sheridan does give it.seneca helps on that part as i know.you should keep that in mind aswell.getting work if you dont have work permit is hard.

[bishtmahesh]

Hey Rakesh,

If you read my post again...u will find wht I m asking abt..? abt the course Digital character animation not about the Wrk permit..

anyway thanks for this information ,....So where r u wrking these days..look like u did ur ur course frm VFS...

Thanks
MB

[tuddel]

Hey Rakesh,

If you read my post again...u will find wht I m asking abt..? abt the course Digital character animation not about the Wrk permit..

anyway thanks for this information ,....So where r u wrking these days..look like u did ur ur course frm VFS...

Thanks
MB

i did read what you said.but it normally ends up with students not wanting to go back and asking about work permit.(im sure this is important info for you):D
But yes i have no idea on animation.Now working in anthem.

[googboog8]

Hey Rakesh,

If you read my post again...u will find wht I m asking abt..? abt the course Digital character animation not about the Wrk permit..

anyway thanks for this information ,....So where r u wrking these days..look like u did ur ur course frm VFS...

Thanks
MB

the dca course is 6 months long, uses maya, and most of the students have had some experience with animation before... you need to model/rig/animate your demo reel in 6 months..

that's all i know about dca... i wouldn't recommend it if you're absolutely new to 3d since the competition is pretty intense and you'll most likely fall behind... if you have experience, it's a good option since it's cheaper and not as long as the 3d animation and vfx program

[z3phon]

I need some advice from you guys/girls. I have an option of going to VFS in march or in august. What would you people advice?
hexygen said "at school you will start from the very basics"
Will we be taught everything from the basics?
My knowledge is lacking in areas such as anatomy and also shaders,rending and lighting in maya. I know there is alot of competition there and I just want to be as prepared as possible. I will try to prepare my self as much as possible till march but I feel if august is an option also then maybe I can learn more in more time.

Will it really matter if I prepare myself already or would it be pointless because I will be taught everything in class over there?
I seem to be confused about this and the more I think the more I confuse myself. :p
I would really appreciate advice from you guys.

[z3phon]

I'd really appreciate some advice from you guys asap.

[NetMapel]

I need some advice from you guys/girls. I have an option of going to VFS in march or in august. What would you people advice?
hexygen said "at school you will start from the very basics"
Will we be taught everything from the basics?
My knowledge is lacking in areas such as anatomy and also shaders,rending and lighting in maya. I know there is alot of competition there and I just want to be as prepared as possible. I will try to prepare my self as much as possible till march but I feel if august is an option also then maybe I can learn more in more time.

Will it really matter if I prepare myself already or would it be pointless because I will be taught everything in class over there?
I seem to be confused about this and the more I think the more I confuse myself. :p
I would really appreciate advice from you guys.
Seems like this comes down to your personal preference. You know it's best to be prepared before entering the school because it's only a year long and the competition is fierce after grad. It all comes down to when you feel most comfortable in terms of your skills that you feel will allow you to get the most out of your year at VFS. The school will teach you the basic and advanced topics, but like you already realized, you need to go beyond that to be competitive. You also need to cross your fingers and hope you got good classmates because they will be invaluable in giving you that extra push that will make you a great artist instead of a good artist. I don't know how much you need to improve with your skills and how passionate/ready you are to improve yourself prior to entering VFS. Only you can tell.

However, I think it's possible to sign up for, say, the March session but move it to August session if you don't feel prepared enough by January/February. Not sure if you can do the same thing if you sign up for August and wanted to move it forward to March since enrollment will probably be full by January 2010. Plus, you will have an extra 3 or 4 classes to compete with for jobs if you go with the August class :O

[z3phon]

^ Thank you the reply.

[JesseDavis]

if you lived in the US I'd say go in August since Jun-Sept is the worst time for job hunting. But you don't. So I won't.


Oh wait...

[Pixanaut]

And the other shoe drops...


Whatever you do/create while at school, keep your files/footage close to your chest. I would suggest not putting anything on communal servers where others have access to it. Ultimately, you should release your work how you like and when you feel it is complete.

Don't give others the chance to undermine your chance of submitting your work to the festival scene by having someone else post it online.


.

[Enishi3D]

:bounce:

Hey All, Im new to CGtalk and im pretending to attend VFS in JuLY of 2010
in the 3D animation and special effects programm

I have a really big question im 18 i graduated from high school last year when graduating from VFS and searching for a job, it is important to have a Bachelors degree or university title?

[Intervain]

depends on where you want to work after graduation:) If you're aming for a job in the US then definitely. To be able to work there you'll need either a degree or a lot of experience [many years], which you do not have yet. VFS has a lot of US students too, who will be the first to get hired. Getting a degree now would definitely help you in the future

[luckywithnotalent]

Or he could do it your way. Blow $25k on DVD's, have no contacts or references, and no guidance or feedback. But hey, maybe when he wants critiques he can ask cgtalk :lol:.

hey ! i wanna do some sarcasm too !......:arteest:

just wanna say how lucky i am, thanks to my parents who manage to save money for me to go college + im born in the canada. now with a degree in hand, and a future job in one of many top studios in US, now i can say to people who are just starting out that having a degree and years of experience is a must having a crappy demo reel is not a problem as long you have a degree from top school.in the other hand having a good demo reel with no degree is just a waste of time.just try and do some research.all of the studios are demanding for a degree !!
breaking in to industry is really really extremely damn super hard ! you cant learn 3d all by yourself.it will lead you to nowhere !!.DVD's tutorial and book were specially made for "certain" people or hobbyist,they were uselless if you not in a university/school/no experience at all.
so to poor people or i say unlucky people out there. you should know by the price of the software itself that this field is not for you guys. if there any guys out there that have talent but no "luck". kiss your passion and hardwork goodbye :)



"you should have the money to get some money"-letther_ichbemorerich

[rajbir]

hey ! i wanna do some sarcasm too !......:arteest:

just wanna say how lucky i am, thanks to my parents who manage to save money for me to go college + im born in the canada. now with a degree in hand, and a future job in one of many top studios in US, now i can say to people who are just starting out that having a degree and years of experience is a must having a crappy demo reel is not a problem as long you have a degree from top school.in the other hand having a good demo reel with no degree is just a waste of time.just try and do some research.all of the studios are demanding for a degree !!
breaking in to industry is really really extremely damn super hard ! you cant learn 3d all by yourself.it will lead you to nowhere !!.DVD's tutorial and book were specially made for "certain" people or hobbyist,they were uselless if you not in a university/school/no experience at all.
so to poor people or i say unlucky people out there. you should know by the price of the software itself that this field is not for you guys. if there any guys out there that have talent but no "luck". kiss your passion and hardwork goodbye :)



"you should have the money to get some money"-letther_ichbemorerich


Sorry friend , But i do not agree with you on this one. No its not true, Self education can lead you anywhere you want. No degree can lead you any where you want, i am self taught. I trained my self for 4 years and then for another 2 years i got education from a school. Schools only teach you tools. If you are creative enough u can explore your self. Self studying is not a waste of time, Not at all. and you shouldnt say that (so to poor people or i say unlucky people out there. you should know by the price of the software itself that this field is not for you guys.) its kinda harsh.

Even people with degree and shitty demoreel get job , gets fired later as they cant fit in the pipeline.

[Enishi3D]

I think, You can learn a lot by yourself in fact almost evrything about 3D world will be learned by ourselves but schools offer different tools and ways to manage that knowledge for the future, i think you need A degree and the will to make a good reel and it depends on yourself to be good or not!.

[Khannalxy'tys]

Sorry friend , But i do not agree with you on this one. No its not true, Self education can lead you anywhere you want. No degree can lead you any where you want, i am self taught. I trained my self for 4 years and then for another 2 years i got education from a school. Schools only teach you tools. If you are creative enough u can explore your self. Self studying is not a waste of time, Not at all. and you shouldnt say that (so to poor people or i say unlucky people out there. you should know by the price of the software itself that this field is not for you guys.) its kinda harsh.

Even people with degree and shitty demoreel get job , gets fired later as they cant fit in the pipeline.


I think he's being sarcastic =)

Though I agree that it lacks finesse for such sarcasm.

[strawhat]

depends on where you want to work after graduation:) If you're aming for a job in the US then definitely. To be able to work there you'll need either a degree or a lot of experience [many years], which you do not have yet. VFS has a lot of US students too, who will be the first to get hired. Getting a degree now would definitely help you in the future

This may sound a little thick, but I presume a degree in the relevant field(animation or illustration) required? Not one in another field say like computer science?

[JamesMcPhail]

This may sound a little thick, but I presume a degree in the relevant field(animation or illustration) required? Not one in another field say like computer science?

My understanding is pretty much any 4 year uni degree will do. They don't care what it is in.

[Intervain]

yeah it seems they generally don't care about the field...

[Wualforvalle]

well anyway, im going to VFS this June/2010, 3d program of course... i was wondering what is the average age of a VFS student, i mean all i hear is about a lot of guys with titles already, im only 18 years old (will be 19 when i get there), i do feel confident of being able to manage the pressure of VFS, but i dont really wanna feel like the little kid in there (as i felt in my previous 3d course).

anyway anything you guys think i should bring to vancouver?
i got a intuos 3 tablet, of course im bringing that, i read that bringing a laptop would be a nice idea, probably getting a small one for checking emails, and to use it as another monitor anything else that could help?

the weather there? how is it? should i bring lot of warm clothes?

[almagesto]

hey! take with you lot of redbull and dont take any online game's account or u gonna spend lot of time playing online games.
have fun in these last few months before VFS :)
yes take ur laptop, it s a good thing to have it... but not really for vfs as u wont need it at school.
a second monitor can help u mainly in the ant farm, after 6 months.
about the weather: june it s gonna be "warm", in winter the temperature drop around 0-5 degree. anyway google it and see the average annual temperature.
i hope u r very focused in what u want to do (3D) as it will be easy to get distract, most of all if it s the first time u live on ur own.
good luck! :)

[Wualforvalle]

hahaha yeah thx almagesto, thankfully i stopped playing WoW about 2 years ago :P soo any games wont be problem... maybe CoD ><. thx a lot man.

[MrConterno]

Well after spending pretty much all day reading almost the entire thread I have to say, information overload lol. Loads of good information here, it's nice to have a thread like this. I am Nicholi, I want to do the 3d & visual effects major. I'm sure I'll be back soon with loads of questions but for now just wanted to say hi.

And btw I saw Full Sail mentioned a few pages back. DO NOT do it. This is of course my personal opinion but after some extensive research they are pretty much after your money. For lack of a better word they are scam artists. Not saying that with a lot of hard work you can't do good, but I'd say chances of you going somewhere with a Full Sail education are slim. Anyways that's all I'll say on that, don't mean to go off topic.

Question about the foundation course. I am pretty new to the whole CG world, and although I have done a few simple animations (bouncing ball, solar system, walking guy, catapult), I feel I wouldn't be ready to do the 3d & VE major just yet. I don't want to waste 30 grand. Anyone have any examples on what they teach in the foundational course as far as 3d stuff goes. My traditional art skills are decent, so i don't know if I'd be wasting my time. (I got accepted to Ringling for illustration if that means any thing, didn't go of course)

Anyways thanks for the information, can't wait to start doing some thing I care about finally.

[Intervain]

well, I never opened a 3d package before starting my 3d animation and vfx studies and I did pretty well in the school [if I say so myself ;)]. There were several other persons like me and they all had decent reels [a couple had really good ones even]. I don't think the foundation course is necessairy at all. It seems to be a filler... just my opinion :)

[MrConterno]

thank you :)

Friend of mine just got some Gnomon dvds he is going to lend me so maybe ill just skip to that. I dunno.

[gbenard]

My understanding is pretty much any 4 year uni degree will do. They don't care what it is in.

Just a note regarding the US work permit opportunities, specifically for the NAFTA Pro Visa which is for Canadian and Mexicans who want to work in the US, you do need a relevant degree. A VFX Artist friend of mine with 10 years experience and a job offer in the US did not get his Visa because his 4 year degree was in Philosophy.

If this applies to you, make sure you check out all of the details! And best of luck.

[colesslaw]

My understanding is pretty much any 4 year uni degree will do. They don't care what it is in.

I don't know where you heard this from, but that is not true. In order to get either H1-B or TN visas (the 2 most common US work visas), you must be a professional with a relevant job offer in your field and also a degree in your related field (or 12 yrs of experience to replace your missing degree for the H1-B).

However there is sort of a loophole in that 'animation' or 'vfx' doesn't exist anywhere in the acceptable TN List of professions. So in the case of the CG industry, the lawyers will squeeze you in either the 'Graphic Design' or the 'Computer Systems Analyst', depending on the degree you possess. Computer graphics fields are so broad that anything somewhat related can be acceptable, and the lawyers will try their best to make it work. However for the above example, a degree in philosophy is just too farfetched.

Here is the full TN List of Professions and requirements:
http://www.grasmick.com/tnlist.htm

[colesslaw]

Question about the foundation course.

I didn't take the foundation course, but some of my classmates who did said they barely touched 3D.. which is not necessarily a bad thing to have a traditional foundation. The course is really short though, 6 months to cover some animation in 2D and other traditional mediums and I believe some acting(?) as well...

Whether foundation will benefit you, I cannot say... but there are many ways to build up your traditional skills and the Foundation course is not your only answer. Say for example you got accepted into the 3D program for months down the road, you can take some part-time art classes at a local college or something for a much lower price...

[gbenard]

I don't know where you heard this from, but that is not true. In order to get either H1-B or TN visas (the 2 most common US work visas), you must be a professional with a relevant job offer in your field and also a degree in your related field (or 12 yrs of experience to replace your missing degree for the H1-B).

However there is sort of a loophole in that 'animation' or 'vfx' doesn't exist anywhere in the acceptable TN List of professions. So in the case of the CG industry, the lawyers will squeeze you in either the 'Graphic Design' or the 'Computer Systems Analyst', depending on the degree you possess. Computer graphics fields are so broad that anything somewhat related can be acceptable, and the lawyers will try their best to make it work. However for the above example, a degree in philosophy is just too farfetched.

Here is the full TN List of Professions and requirements:
http://www.grasmick.com/tnlist.htm

Thanks for including the link, Sherrie. As I mentioned, a "relevant" degree is what they are looking for, not "any" degree as originally posted in this thread. You can also possess a 2-year Diploma plus 3 years related experience, as seen here (http://www.nafta-sec-alena.org/en/view.aspx?x=343&mtpiID=147#Ap1603.D.1) on the NAFTA website.

In Canada, the category "Graphic Designers" (NOC code 5241 (http://www5.hrsdc.gc.ca/NOC/English/NOC/2006/ViewAllTitlesQuickSearch.aspx?val=5&val1=5241&val65=5241)) does include Animators and related occupations, but in the US it has its own category, which, as you mentioned, is not quite the same as the Graphic Designer category. However, luckily, the Graphic Design category does include a mention of Motion Picture and Video Industries so it usually works.
http://www.bls.gov/oes/2008/may/oes271024.htm

[NetMapel]

I didn't take the foundation course, but some of my classmates who did said they barely touched 3D.. which is not necessarily a bad thing to have a traditional foundation. The course is really short though, 6 months to cover some animation in 2D and other traditional mediums and I believe some acting(?) as well...

Whether foundation will benefit you, I cannot say... but there are many ways to build up your traditional skills and the Foundation course is not your only answer. Say for example you got accepted into the 3D program for months down the road, you can take some part-time art classes at a local college or something for a much lower price...
I agree on this point :) A couple of months ago, I signed up for VFS' 3D program starting this March. So, during that time, I practiced on my own and also took some part-time classes on life drawing. However, I do have a slight art background prior to doing this so it was easier for me to catch up a bit in this couple of months. Nicholi, seeing as you were previously accepted into Ringling, you obviously had some solid art background so I think you will be way ahead of the Foundation curriculum. Depending on what you want to do, I suggest that you spend the time between now and when you start VFS and just practice Maya and Photoshop (and Nuke if you want to go with VFX). Watch the Gnomon tutorials you got and I think you'll be fine.

Just want to also take this opportunity to say hi and see if anybody else here is coming to the 3D program in March ? :)

[MrConterno]

Hey I saw a few pages back people saying you want to be within walking distance of the school so you don't have to pay parking. Now would this mean you are pretty much able to walk to anything you would need, or would you still need a car. I imagine lugging home food from the store would be a major pain.

[Intervain]

you can get anything on foot... I lived in a few different spots in Downtown during my year there and at all times there was a grocery store nearby... no lagging problems whatsoevah ;)

[charimanmeow]

So I've been following the VFS thread because I'm considering the school. My main hesitation is the tuition. 50k. Is it worth it? Are there any recent graduates from '09 that can weigh in on what the landscape looks like upon graduation? Do you end up having to intern or is finding job relatively fast ( ie. less than 3 months )?

Thanks so much. If this has already been answered somewhere please feel free to point me to the right place.

Cheers

Newbie

[Wualforvalle]

so is there any problems working in canada as a american?

[googboog8]

So I've been following the VFS thread because I'm considering the school. My main hesitation is the tuition. 50k. Is it worth it? Are there any recent graduates from '09 that can weigh in on what the landscape looks like upon graduation? Do you end up having to intern or is finding job relatively fast ( ie. less than 3 months )?

Thanks so much. If this has already been answered somewhere please feel free to point me to the right place.

Cheers

Newbie
a lot of people from my batch (3d76) have found jobs, not necessarily in canada, but most of them had some art/3d background before joining. the job scene is definitely getting better than it was a year ago.

[Wualforvalle]

another thing, leaving mexican food really scares me off, i was wondering what do they eat there? liek what is the traditional food? or what is the typical street corner food?

[MrConterno]

I don't know but every city I have been to has had just about any thing you could possibly want. Should be alright.

[RREYGUN]

Starting my Foundation class on Aug 30th
Anyone else?

[MrConterno]

http://www.hellobc.com some kinda cool videos on there and some general information. For Vancouver in general that is.

[almagesto]

a lot of people from my batch (3d76) have found jobs, not necessarily in canada, but most of them had some art/3d background before joining. the job scene is definitely getting better than it was a year ago.

i dont think that many people from 76, 77 and 78 found a job in the industry.. i think less than 1/3 in my opinion.

[googboog8]

i dont think that many people from 76, 77 and 78 found a job in the industry.. i think less than 1/3 in my opinion.
i dont know about 3d 77 and 3d 78 but there's atleast 20 people i know from 3d76 who are working or doing internships in the 3d industry.

[Pixanaut]

another thing, leaving mexican food really scares me off, i was wondering what do they eat there? liek what is the traditional food? or what is the typical street corner food?

You can find what you like. There is lots of sushi and pizza joints(especially by the school), plenty of middle eastern type places, and yes Mexican food. Vancouver has a huge mix of cultures, so there are plenty of options. Plus all of the staple fast food chains from McD's to Subway, etc... Not that I suggest making those your main source of foods by any means.

Vancouver has a high number of ESL schools, with plenty of Mexican students. You could inquire there as to any hidden favorites that they know about.

[MrConterno]

Anyone know how apartment land lords up there feel about dogs?

[Pixanaut]

Anyone know how apartment land lords up there feel about dogs?

Vancouver is pretty dog friendly. Most apartments will allow small pets with a pet deposit (which I believe is around $200). Many people have small-medium sized dogs in my building.

[roderickweise]

I applyed at vfs and got accepted but at the time the economy was bad here in the U.S and I couldnt get approved for the loan. Vfs wants 65k for tuition and another 10 for living expense. I do not know if that is in anyones budget any more but Think Tank Training Centre is a lot cheaper and they are putting out really good work as well. I will be attending / applying for the fall class.

[Pixanaut]

I would also suggest bringing at least $1500/month to live. $10k to live for the year will leave you pretty stretched. If you don't have $700-850 for your PORTION of the rent, you'll most likely be living in a less than desirable building.

[MrConterno]

Vancouver is pretty dog friendly. Most apartments will allow small pets with a pet deposit (which I believe is around $200). Many people have small-medium sized dogs in my building.

Wooohooo I don't think I could live without my baby. I guess the only problem is she is a German Shepherd, Rottweiler mix, but she could probably pull off as being a chunky black lab if need be.

[Intervain]

take into consideration that you'll need to be at school most of the time in the last 4 months or so - so she'll have to stay alone all the time...

[googboog8]

taking care of a dog while spending most of the day in vfs is going to be hard... especially once you start working on your demo reel... unless you live close enough to walk back every few hours to feed/walk your dog...

[RREYGUN]

I have a question about when were doing our demo reels. Is it mandatory to work on your reel with their computer or can u take your project in a usb bring it home, work on it, go back the next day, update the project and continue working on it?

[googboog8]

I have a question about when were doing our demo reels. Is it mandatory to work on your reel with their computer or can u take your project in a usb bring it home, work on it, go back the next day, update the project and continue working on it?

you can take it anywhere you want...

[RREYGUN]

you can take it anywhere you want...

Wow thats good to hear. Thank you for the fast reply!

[charimanmeow]

i dont know about 3d 77 and 3d 78 but there's atleast 20 people i know from 3d76 who are working or doing internships in the 3d industry.

Is that typical? After a year of intense 3d VFX training at an acclaimed school like VFS and then internship?

[Kskovbo]

Why would you take your project home and work at home? They are preparing you you for what comes after you graduate. You wont be able to take your work home when working in a studio anyway.

I dont understand why people want to lock them self into a basement and just work on their project by them selfs. Whats the point? You wont get any feedback, teachers are not there to help you, and you wont make any friends or connections that way?


But as a guy earlier said, sure you can take your project wherever you want. Just think of all the stuff you will be missing out on.


I am in the last term now, just about to finish soon btw.

[googboog8]

Is that typical? After a year of intense 3d VFX training at an acclaimed school like VFS and then internship?

anything to get your foot in the industry.... the other option is to stay home and watch tv...


or something...

[Radon]

Is that typical? After a year of intense 3d VFX training at an acclaimed school like VFS and then internship?

3D internships are totally different than internships in other feilds. I did an internship for my first job out of VFS and it was great for me. Think of it as cheep labor and a safety net for them. Studios want to make sure the skills you show in your demo reel are up to standards and that you will click well with the team. I've seen it a couple times before where a student has a great and well polished reel but then they get into a studio environment and can't perform because that model that took them 6 months to do is expected from them in about 2 weeks or less.

For me a internship was great, I got to learn the ropes after school with minimal pressure and once the studio saw that I could handle myself they were more than willing to offer me better projects and something more permanent.

[Intervain]

Is that typical? After a year of intense 3d VFX training at an acclaimed school like VFS and then internship?

depends solely on the student - a lot just do not work much while at school - instead they think the knowledge will pour into their heads straight from the air that fills the classroom :curious: And yeah an internship is not that little and can prove useful...

[colesslaw]

Is that typical? After a year of intense 3d VFX training at an acclaimed school like VFS and then internship?

It's not about what's typical. This industry is pretty competitive and at school you have to work for what you get. Then after you grad you take every opportunity that can get your foot inside the door. In the state of today's economy, many studios have internships as a safety net to screen new hires that do not have any industry work experience attached to them. Work experience is extremely important in this industry and if an internship is going to get that for you then so be it. Your demo reel tells the employer very little about you as an employee and the pace in a work environment is much much faster than the time you have in school to make your demo reel.

I did an internship myself and many other interns have 4 year degrees, some have masters. It doesn't matter how much schooling you have, you still have to proof yourself in the beginning. That said, it's not a MUST that you end up in an internship after grad, you might get hired straight away with a short contract to try you out, it really depends on the company. I'm just saying internships are getting popular in today's economy. Bit if not then you'll most likely get a short contract, not many companies are willing to commit in a full time hire for a fresh grad.

[MrConterno]

just wondering, would it be a waste of time to go learn some basic 3d stuff at another school and then come to VFS to take that knowledge and run with it?

[DagMX]

just wondering, would it be a waste of time to go learn some basic 3d stuff at another school and then come to VFS to take that knowledge and run with it?
Not at all, and you may find VFS to be superfluos at that point, but I find the 3D program right now(I'm term 3 3d83) is fine for beginners and more experienced people alike as long as you're willing to put in the hours.

[Intervain]

but I find the 3D program right now(I'm term 3 3d83) is fine for beginners and more experienced people alike as long as you're willing to put in the hours.

agreed and it's expensive enough in itself... I don't see a need to spend more on another school beforehand.

[NetMapel]

just wondering, would it be a waste of time to go learn some basic 3d stuff at another school and then come to VFS to take that knowledge and run with it?
Having some knowledge of 3D softwares is never a bad idea. There are plenty of people in the school to ask around about software techniques. I would say it is more important to practice figure drawings before entering the school.

[DagMX]

To add to the two replies above me,and it's just a thought, I found the Foundation program quite helpful to going into 3d(as an alternative to another expensive school) seeing as I had no artistic experience before hand.

Mileage may vary but it does have a ton of useful classes and it's very much geared to being an entry into the 3D program. It's still expensive, but it's a year long program so the living costs over a longer school would even things out.

Classes I found most useful now that I'm in 3D were things like script writing, cinematography, editing and lighting. Maya classes were a bit too simplistic for me, but useful for a ton of other people. All these things are also covered in 3D but there's little overlap because the pacing for both programs is very different.

[diegop]

They teach you everything from the beginning, so there's no need for previous preparation. Having said so, it could probably help. There's a lot of new stuff to learn and the risk is of being overwhelmed. I think having some kind of background on arts or technical stuff could help a lot in the process.

[NetMapel]

They teach you everything from the beginning, so there's no need for previous preparation. Having said so, it could probably help. There's a lot of new stuff to learn and the risk is of being overwhelmed. I think having some kind of background on arts or technical stuff could help a lot in the process.
Hey, saw your reel at the grad showing yesterday. Very very good work ! Congratulations.

[diegop]

Thanks a lot, happy you liked it!

[tula]

I hear VFS is getting worse- why?

[Towley]

Well, I'm replying to the message I saw in my emails..which your cousin didn't like.

I'm currently enrolled in VFS in class 3D81 in my 5th Term and I have mixed things to say, parts of the course are excellent, and parts are not as strong. I found that the earlier part of the course, terms 1-3 were somewhat dull and I didn't take a lot away from it apart from the modelling and animation classes, those two were excellent and well taught by the instructors and TA's.

The last two terms (4-5) have been the best terms I've had at VFS. I'm in the VFX stream and the VFX mentor is great, he really knows his stuff and drives you to get the best out of your reel. I also know that the modelling mentor is fantastic and very knowledgeable.

I'm not going to name the weaker courses but there are some at VFS, but if you put in some extra time and don't expect information to come to you on a platter you'll be way ahead of the pack and you will get a good demo reel out of VFS.

There's a lot of negative comments on the board about VFS but I get the feeling that a lot of them are from people who went expecting to get a good reel with not much work. You have to work your ass off at VFS and any other school if you really want to excel.

[G00DEVIL]

hello, am from india, and currently am doing diploma in 3d animation, where i've completed sketching, photoshop, 3ds max, currently am doing maya at the academy, and in the end we'll have vfx classes.
I've decided to go to vfs, because the output of their students is simply awesome. I got accepted by vfs and my classes will start from feb 2011.
I just want to ask whether the decision of choosing VFS is good or not?

[Towley]

If you put the hours in, VFS will provide you with the tools and mentoring you need to come out with one of the awesome reels you see on their website. If you don't put the time and effort in, no course will give you a good reel.

VFS is not perfect, there are flaws and problems, and it is true you only see a small percentage of the reels on their website but like I said, if you put in the time, theres no reason why your reel couldn't be up there amoung them come February 2012.

[colesslaw]

It's true that the awesome reels you see are only a portion of the reels churned out by students every year, and those reels don't necessarily represent the level of every student that come out of vfs. That said, there are also lots of slackers at vfs, and you simply cannot expect them to come out with the same quality reels as those who work their butts off. Everyone I know who put in the hours, worked hard and pushed themselves got great reels in return, and if you work hard too there's no reason why you won't come out with a reel that vfs wants to show off on the internet.

Some people think that once they got in they will magically end up with a great reel at the end of the year, it doesn't happen that way. Like every single school in the world, you get what you put in. You have to work hard, push yourself, and compete with yourself so you can keep surpassing your own work.

[NetMapel]

Actually, throughout the newer terms, we got more and more stuff. ZBrush license is one of the latest one and now we're being taught that in class as well as Maya. We also got nice new big Intous 4 tablets to help with the zbrush lessons. I thought that was pretty nice.

[kelgy]

Like every single school in the world, you get what you put in.

**although there are cases--in Vancouver in fact, where schools will hire less than competent teachers or ones with an axe to grind(i.e. they didnt get where they wanted to in life and decided to take their frustrations out on students), and its not necessarily always true that what the student puts in will be what the student gets out.

There's one case that made the Province newspaper a few years ago-(not VFS)--students gave teacher petition complaining they didnt feel they were learning enough in class, teacher responded by kicking classroom door in. Teacher remains on staff to this day.

Schooling can definitely be a gamble.

[MikeRhone]

Wow, VFS is up to class 81 now? I feel old. (I'm actually sitting near a former 3d-16 classmate these days. It's a very small world in VFX)

[Towley]

Wow 3D16! Haha, it's great to hear you guys are still around in the industry! I'll be heading back to the UK after my one year stint at VFS looking for a job in London, as I see you now work for Double Negative! That's awesome, hopefully I'll be in a similar situation some day!

[Wualforvalle]

soo my questions are...
are there classes on saturday or sunday?
around how many hours of classes per day?
much homework?

[succuby]

hey, no classes on saturdays or sundays, though expect to stay in school working after classes and even on saturdays. depending on the effort you want to put in of course...

[G00DEVIL]

and what about classes in evening ??? because I need to do part time job there

[Towley]

There are occasionally classes from 7 till 10pm but only once a week, one class per term.

[DagMX]

soo my questions are...
are there classes on saturday or sunday?
around how many hours of classes per day?
much homework?
There are opt-in classes on saturdays and sundays, usually life drawing or some workshop. Nothing mandatory. But expect to be in school on the weekends unless you're working from home.

There are usually two blocks of classes every day. A morning one from 9-12 and an afternoon 1-4. Sometimes, and quite often there'll be a 4-7 or a 6-9 class usually once a week.

There will be quite a bit of homework depending on the classes for the first two terms. Term 3 is more concept related and from then on it's your final with a few classes.

and what about classes in evening ??? because I need to do part time job there

On the topic of a part time job, seeing as you're from India, remember it will be hard to find work if you dont have a work permit. Something I see quite a few students not understanding. It is also harder to work during the week with all the assignments due for the first few terms, but gets easier on the weekends and later terms.

[G00DEVIL]

hey, what about class school timing ??? and can we access the computer lab anytime??

[DagMX]

hey, what about class school timing ??? and can we access the computer lab anytime??
Class timings vary from day to day. Most days are 9am-4pm with a break from 12-1. Some days have evening class at 4-7 or 7-9 and sometimes later.

You can access the computer labs at any time as long as there is no class and usually not during term breaks.

[PeterRabel]

I will be attending VFS starting feb. 2011.
I just have a few questions...

1) Are most of the industry contacts you make while at VFS with canadian studios? Or are there a fair number of US studios that look to VFS as well?

2) Is it difficult to get a work visa as a US citizen in Canda after attending VFS?


Thanks in advance for any information!

[Towley]

Yes, almost all the industry contacts you make while at VFS are with Canadian based companies, however, if you really impress the instructors theres a good chance they'll write you a reference which could help you secure a job after VFS.

While your here you should join SIGGRAPH and make sure you attend the SPARK FX and Animation seminars that are held in town, that is one of the best places to make contacts in companies all around the world. I've met reps from ILM, Weta Digital, CISVancouver, Pixar Canada, Digital Domain and a couple of others, so there is plenty of opportunity.

As far as I know if you have experience it's easy(ish) for a US citizen to get work in Canada, but if you don't have exp. you might be better off heading back to the states for a bit while you get some and then head back here at a later time.

[PeterRabel]

Thanks for the reply Towley!
My main concern is being able to get a permit to work in canada where the contacts I will make will be. Is Siggraph going to be in Vancouver this year? I've always wanted to attend that! I will definitely check out the Spark FX and animation seminars, thanks for the tip.

[Towley]

I don't think the main Siggraph exhibition is here, pretty sure it's in LA, but you should checkout Siggraph Vancouver. They hold events and seminars throughout the year at various locations across the city.

I see where your coming from with the contacts, but a lot of the people you will meet here will have worked all over the world in the VFX industry even if they currently work in Van, or they will know people who work in companies everywhere. Through VFS and networking myself while I've been here I know people who have worked in Van, the US, the UK, Singapore and New Zealand so there is plenty of scope for meeting people from all over and they're generally very happy to chat and stay in touch.

[Intervain]

the Vancouver Siggraph is happening next year - this year's LA

[PeterRabel]

@towley - That's good to know that I will get opportinities to meet employers from various locations. If you don't mind my asking, how long have you been at VFS? Do you feel that you're going to be at that professional level by the time you graduate?
I have already comitted to the school, but this kind of feedback is always good to have :)

@Intervain - I will be attending from Feb. 2011 to Feb. 2012, so it looks like I'll be in town :)

[hismasterpiece]

Wow. I just read all 91 pages.

Hahaha. So anyway, my plan is to enter VFS on the 3D animation & Visual Effects course in August 2011.
I'm 19 now and I'll be graduating from my current polytechnic in Singapore this Thursday although I honestly don't think I've gained much out of the 3 years here.
This is the demoreel that I accomplished while here and.... I think it's kinda bad :/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAcnVMDpQ5o

But it does show pretty much what I know (which is not much), but from what I read in the last 91 pages, it'll be more then most of the people who enter the course. Is it still recommended for me to take the course? I know about the first 3 months being dull and all that, but I'll like some good training on my basics again. (:

I do hope I can get some scholarship. Read that it's hard, but no harm trying right? Haha.
My parents will be paying for my tuition fee, but they do seem to have some financial problems so I'll probably try and earn some money for this year... after all it's still such a long way to go.

My bf is also joining VFS's sound design course in August 2011 when he is done with his national service. (yeah we're going together, but we're aware how busy we'll be) I've read that there are some collaborations though, so is it possible for him to do the sound for my reel or is it something that everybody does themselves?

Do you guys ever travel out of Vancouver as friends while in the 1 yr in VFS? Like during the weekends (does seem a little impossible after reading) or breaks?

It'll be hard to get a job in Vancouver as a foreigner wouldn't it? Damn. Ah wells at least the CG scene here in Singapore is growing... I'm hoping to try out working there though.

[Erdauq]

Since VFS is one of the schools im looking at, besides VanArts, decided to ask some questions here:

1. Would the degree from VFS also transfer over to the United States or would it only work in Canada (thinking about going for Game Design)?

2. Would finding housing near the school be difficult? Or does VFS help with that somehow?

3. What is the 'work visa' you need to get to go to school there from the U.S?

[DagMX]

Since VFS is one of the schools im looking at, besides VanArts, decided to ask some questions here:

1. Would the degree from VFS also transfer over to the United States or would it only work in Canada (thinking about going for Game Design)?

2. Would finding housing near the school be difficult? Or does VFS help with that somehow?

3. What is the 'work visa' you need to get to go to school there from the U.S?

1)VFS only provides a diploma, not a degree and it would work anywhere in the world, for the most part. Though mostly studios would look at your portfolio.

2)VFS has a housing facility, but it's easy enough to find places. It's a little harder near the game design campus, but most housing exists within a short bus ride or walk.

3) You only need a student visa if you don't plan to have a part time job while studying. I'd call the counselor for VFS and ask them details.

[DagMX]

Wow. I just read all 91 pages.
(cut it down for quoting)
1)Is it worth going to?
2)Scolarship?
3)Collaborations?
4)Travel?
5)Work as a foreigner?


1)I'd say it's worth going to as long as you're willing to put in the effort yourself. Even seasoned animators improve based on exposure to the people here and feedback from the instructors.

2)I'm a part scholarship student. They gave me one term for free in both the foundation and 3d programs that I took(am taking). It wasn't too hard for me to get it, just submitted some work I did and your reel may help you. They do have scolarship periods though so call your respective counselor.

3)Collaborations are doable though not advisable as a main focus as each person will have a huge workload and won't be able to dedicate time. He can do your final but it's probably not inn his best interest to do it as his final(as a side project maybe though) as Sound design students can ask professional studios for permissions to videos.

4)Some people travel. 3D people don't really. Too little time.

5)Yeah getting work is hard, but it all depends on your final portfolio.

[hismasterpiece]

Oh okay thanks! :D

Haha you're the one that gave me hope that there was a chance I could get a scholarship when you replied in the past pages. Haha before you commented, I was thinking that there was no hope ):

I really wish to travel, I guess I'll just have to reach early and do the travelling before school starts. Where's good to go visit and have fun? I heard Seattle is only a 3hr drive away, it that true?
I don't know if we'll get a car tho, it's starting to seem completely unnecessary.

Btw, how's the weather there all year? I hope it's not too cold :/
Was there anything there that you didnt expect and it came as a complete surprise to you that you can well, let me know of so I can prepare?

[DagMX]

I really wish to travel, I guess I'll just have to reach early and do the travelling before school starts. Where's good to go visit and have fun? I heard Seattle is only a 3hr drive away, it that true?
I don't know if we'll get a car tho, it's starting to seem completely unnecessary.

Btw, how's the weather there all year? I hope it's not too cold :/
Was there anything there that you didnt expect and it came as a complete surprise to you that you can well, let me know of so I can prepare?

For traveling, I haven't really done any. There are term breaks of about 4 days and a couple 2 week long holidays throughout the year so you can travel then too.
Seattle is about 3hrs away and you can easily get to Victoria and the rest of Vancouver Island in that time too.

A car is probably unnecessary. Vancouver is tiny and it's one bus rie to get to most places, but a car could be nice to go out further.

The weather here is sunny for half the year and then abysmally rainy for the rest. It rarely snows but last year, when I was in foundation, it snowed like crazy and they had their hottest summer ever. I didn't expect that so had to get snow boots and a table fan. But that was a freak year I hear.
THis year has been pretty nice overall.

umm be prepared for a lot of work is all I can say. It's a lot piled on an once and can get overwhelming for some.

[Pixanaut]

Oh okay thanks! :D

Haha you're the one that gave me hope that there was a chance I could get a scholarship when you replied in the past pages. Haha before you commented, I was thinking that there was no hope ):

I really wish to travel, I guess I'll just have to reach early and do the travelling before school starts. Where's good to go visit and have fun? I heard Seattle is only a 3hr drive away, it that true?
I don't know if we'll get a car tho, it's starting to seem completely unnecessary.

Btw, how's the weather there all year? I hope it's not too cold :/
Was there anything there that you didnt expect and it came as a complete surprise to you that you can well, let me know of so I can prepare?

Don't bother with a car. It'll cost you a fortune to park it downtown. Use the money that you would waste on parking, gas, insurance, etc to live closer to the school (like, within 10 min walking distance). You won't regret it.

If you want to explore, rent a car. But, I agree that during the course, you won't have time to go far. I think there are scheduled breaks and such during the course. You can drive from Vancouver to San Diego in about 24 hours if you push it. (I've managed to do it in 21 hours once, so essentially, you can go anywhere if you have the time.)

[colesslaw]

Don't bother with a car because parking is expensive. I had a car and drove to school everyday because I am a local Vancouverite and I lived at home so I didn't have to pay rent. I had to put myself on the waiting list 6 months beforehand for a monthly-parking spot (at a nearby commercial parking lot) to ensure I get a space when school starts. I paid $96 per month which is already CHEAP for downtown parking. Many lots run at >$200 a month and have huge waiting lists of people waiting for a spot. Most of street parking is metered at $2 an hour or so and you can only park for limited hours so that is not ideal for sometimes you have to stay late.

As for traveling, you may IF you can find time during term breaks and IF you are not totally burned out by the term, which is rare. Seattle is slightly over 3 hrs away, but you need to cross the border which means you and all your potential classmates traveling with you would need valid visitor's visas and that may limit your travel choices to within Canadian borders. :rolleyes:

[hismasterpiece]

Oh thanks so much guys!

I guess I'll really have to find somewhere near the school to stay in!

I'll be going in during August (2011). What season is it in August? Fall?
Haha sorry if it's a stupid question, Singapore is summer all year round. Since I'll enroll during August 29th, I guess I'll graduate around then the year after. That would kinda mean that the summer break won't be much for me since it's August 22nd - August 26th right? Haha.
(Oh wait, does that mean August is in Summer?? lol!)

Btw, is it troublesome to get a visitor's visa? I really want to head to Seattle to visit my cousin (:

[Wualforvalle]

You can drive from Vancouver to San Diego in about 24 hours if you push it. (I've managed to do it in 21 hours once, so essentially, you can go anywhere if you have the time.)
Another 20 min and you are in Tijuana :D, Vancouver its gonna be close to my city at least, actually my parents are driving me there, going in a month, from now, 28 June my first day :D

[googboog8]

Oh thanks so much guys!

I guess I'll really have to find somewhere near the school to stay in!

I'll be going in during August (2011). What season is it in August? Fall?
Haha sorry if it's a stupid question, Singapore is summer all year round. Since I'll enroll during August 29th, I guess I'll graduate around then the year after. That would kinda mean that the summer break won't be much for me since it's August 22nd - August 26th right? Haha.
(Oh wait, does that mean August is in Summer?? lol!)

Btw, is it troublesome to get a visitor's visa? I really want to head to Seattle to visit my cousin (:

nope, its easy, unless you want to commit acts of genocide on US soil...

you'll find out what i mean when you get the visa app form

[workaholicmind]

can any one of VFS graduate tell what are the chances of international student to get job or work permit after studing at vfs is over . i know about the permanent residency rules of canada but i m asking what if i only need work permit or job in good company in canda and i know its depend on my showreel though what if my showreel is impressive enough .It just i heard that international student have very few changes to get into to get job over canada.So was keen to know about it

[googboog8]

can any one of VFS graduate tell what are the chances of international student to get job or work permit after studing at vfs is over . i know about the permanent residency rules of canada but i m asking what if i only need work permit or job in good company in canda and i know its depend on my showreel though what if my showreel is impressive enough .It just i heard that international student have very few changes to get into to get job over canada.So was keen to know about it
it's very difficult. nearly impossible if you don't have prior work experience, because the company that is sponsoring you for the work visa has to prove to the government that there is no one in canada capable of doing the job better than you, i've only heard of 1 case where a person without experience was offered a job (max wahyudi) and even that took a couple of months...
it's a lot easier if you've had atleast a year of full time work experience in the same field

[colesslaw]

I have no idea about how high/low the chances are.
Let's just say that I haven't heard of any international student in my class or the class before and class after me get a work permit, other than those with PR.
That depends on a lot of factors though and may or may not relate to the actual chances. But I'm guessing that "impressive enough" is maybe not enough, perhaps "extremely impressive" is closer to what you need. Big companies have better resources to offer work permit applications, and there's just not that many big companies in Vancouver. Satellite branches of big companies don't really count because they run on limited budget.


can any one of VFS graduate tell what are the chances of international student to get job or work permit after studing at vfs is over . i know about the permanent residency rules of canada but i m asking what if i only need work permit or job in good company in canda and i know its depend on my showreel though what if my showreel is impressive enough .It just i heard that international student have very few changes to get into to get job over canada.So was keen to know about it

[BartokDesign]

I agree with this..
At least at 2007 /2008 it was like this


I have no idea about how high/low the chances are.
Let's just say that I haven't heard of any international student in my class or the class before and class after me get a work permit, other than those with PR.
That depends on a lot of factors though and may or may not relate to the actual chances. But I'm guessing that "impressive enough" is maybe not enough, perhaps "extremely impressive" is closer to what you need. Big companies have better resources to offer work permit applications, and there's just not that many big companies in Vancouver. Satellite branches of big companies don't really count because they run on limited budget.

[Intervain]

It's possible but not easy. Took quite a bit of time for my company to get the visa and not without hiccups. The chances are slim though, I have to agree with others.

[hismasterpiece]

My advisor made it seem pretty easy :/

"Work permit --- if you have a job offer (minimum one year ), there’s no problems to change your status from Study permit to Work permit and our Student Service center will help you through the stage.. don’t worry about that ! I always tell my students, the only thing you need to concentrate is your learning attitude, how to learn the most within this one year. This is the only thing you can control.. "

[diegop]

It's true that with a job offer you can request a work permit but it takes weeks and companies usually need people to start right away. Also they get some tax discount if they hire more Canadians so especially for junior positions it's hard. There are special cases like working holidays (if your country is part of the program) or IT work permit (if you have 2 years of previous experience, they're taking it away on September though).
In the end, it is possible but really hard, I've seen a lot of people with awesome demo reels having trouble with this.

[Wualforvalle]

work permit is necessary or same deal to get, for every nationality?
im both American and Mexican

[Intervain]

yes it's necessary - Americans need a work permit for Ca - I think there's some different rules though under the North American Free Trade Agreement than for other nationalities... I might be wrong however - just check out the Canadian Gov websites, they explain it all very well.

[hismasterpiece]

Sigh that sucks.
I have a feeling I'll like it there more then I like it here. Oh wells.

Anyway.. I've just finished and sent in my application for the 3D animation course next year august. Super excited, yay!

Considering I already know basic 3D and stuff..should I start brainstorming on awesome demoreel ideas already?

[workaholicmind]

It's true that with a job offer you can request a work permit but it takes weeks and companies usually need people to start right away. Also they get some tax discount if they hire more Canadians so especially for junior positions it's hard. There are special cases like working holidays (if your country is part of the program) or IT work permit (if you have 2 years of previous experience, they're taking it away on September though).
In the end, it is possible but really hard, I've seen a lot of people with awesome demo reels having trouble with this.

whats IT work permit ? to have work experience in related to animation field or to be related to IT field.Well if work experience count than i have it as flash freelancer (for 2 years) plus i have good knowledge of 3d and have some good work under my shelf. If its related to IT, i am already a computer science engineer.I even had a talk with counselor of VFS,they said i might not have any trouble regarding work permit with that much qualification and experience though but ya even they won't guarantee that (no institute will i know that).Studying in VFS really means alot to me but i was even looking for some experience there which could help me grow if i come back to my country.so i was looking for some graduate advice but i guess i get all the review i needed so far. i guess i better look at PR if not work permit though.Thanks anyways

[ShadowM8]

Americans can get a TN permit however it requires a degree or a 2 year diploma plus 3 years of work experience. So if you just went to VFS and have no prior education you're out of luck.

It is possible for a VFS grad to get a permit but probably not in Vancouver. The talent pool there right now is very high and they are a lot of people still looking for work after big lay offs in the gaming sector. Most studios won't touch anyone without a few years behind their belt. However there are other places in Canada that are much better. Prime example is Montreal. Both eidos and ubisoft are very good at getting people permit, even juniors with no work experience. So consider applying there.

Magda I dig the avatar :) Btw you coming for E3/Siggraph?

[Intervain]

hehe cheers Serguei - you a fan too? Not this year - I think I'll skip 2010 and go to Van next year. :cool:

[diegop]

whats IT work permit ? to have work experience in related to animation field or to be related to IT field.Well if work experience count than i have it as flash freelancer (for 2 years) plus i have good knowledge of 3d and have some good work under my shelf. If its related to IT, i am already a computer science engineer.I even had a talk with counselor of VFS,they said i might not have any trouble regarding work permit with that much qualification and experience though but ya even they won't guarantee that (no institute will i know that).Studying in VFS really means alot to me but i was even looking for some experience there which could help me grow if i come back to my country.so i was looking for some graduate advice but i guess i get all the review i needed so far. i guess i better look at PR if not work permit though.Thanks anyways

It's a special permit for people with 2 years experience in a lot of IT related things (I'm pretty sure Flash is a part of it). It works well in this contest because you don't have to wait for approval but just go to the border and get it right away. As I was saying though, they're taking it away on September this year.

[workaholicmind]

It's a special permit for people with 2 years experience in a lot of IT related things (I'm pretty sure Flash is a part of it). It works well in this contest because you don't have to wait for approval but just go to the border and get it right away. As I was saying though, they're taking it away on September this year.dude thanks for info but i still don't get it .. .can u provide me any online link from where i can get more info ?

[diegop]

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/special-tech.asp

[workaholicmind]

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/special-tech.aspthanks deigo that helped a bit

[Wualforvalle]

ahhh siggraph is going to be at LA when i leave to Vancouver, at least on 2011 its going to be at Vancouver ill have to see if i stay around some more months there. :(

[ShadowM8]

Yep! I think the new cast of Karen Gillian and Matt Smith is great!
I'll definitely be in Van for next years siggy so I'm sure we'll run into each other there! The new convention center is really cool too!

[Okilo11]

Forgive me for the lengthy post :)

I will be graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science in 2011, which makes me sort of a jack-of-all-trades type in that I am skilled at reading and writing code, yet have taken a strong personal interest in 3D graphics and animation. My school doesn't offer anything in the ballpark of modeling or animation (the closest is art history - which is not close).

I am really serious about taking my abilities to the next level, which can only go so far working by myself with no real feedback from classmates who have any skill using programs like Max or Photoshop. I've spoken on the phone with a VFS admissions advisor and they say that a student with a background like mine is actually a great fit for their 3D Animation and Visual Effects program, as long as I have a demo reel that shows motivation and potential - that I would be shocked at some of the quality of reels that student get admitted with.

I've read a lot of posts talking about how VFS will take anyone's money, and I just want to make sure I don't fall victim to that. Are these claims valid? I really am very motivated so I wouldn't get admitted just to slack off. Also, although you don't get any sort of Master's from VFS, is it typical for someone to attend VFS after going to a four year school?

[Pixanaut]

Get an industry job as a programmer, learn 3D at home or slowly from the people you make friends with at work. School is great, but getting paid to learn is much better than paying to learn.

[Towley]

Hey Okilo11 (http://forums.cgsociety.org/member.php?u=425795),

I came from a background very similar to yours, I did a computer science degree before I went to VFS. Now... I honestly never used my programming skills once at VFS. I'm not saying I couldn't have, if I had chosen to do some crazy particle simulation I'm sure I could have done... but 99% of people don't do this and for a good reason, VFS gives you a platform to make a demo reel which shows you have the basic skills to get a junior job in the industry and it's best to keep your reel somewhat simple.

I think VFS is a great place if you have the cash and the will to learn but I don't think coming from a programming background will really benefit you greatly at VFS, you might be better off getting some Maya and Nuke scripting tutorials teaching yourself because from what I saw none of the tutors at VFS are particularly skilled when it comes to scripting.

[Okilo11]

Hey Okilo11 (http://forums.cgsociety.org/member.php?u=425795),

I came from a background very similar to yours, I did a computer science degree before I went to VFS. Now... I honestly never used my programming skills once at VFS. I'm not saying I couldn't have, if I had chosen to do some crazy particle simulation I'm sure I could have done... but 99% of people don't do this and for a good reason, VFS gives you a platform to make a demo reel which shows you have the basic skills to get a junior job in the industry and it's best to keep your reel somewhat simple.

I think VFS is a great place if you have the cash and the will to learn but I don't think coming from a programming background will really benefit you greatly at VFS, you might be better off getting some Maya and Nuke scripting tutorials teaching yourself because from what I saw none of the tutors at VFS are particularly skilled when it comes to scripting.

And that is perfectly fine with me - I never thought I would say it, but as much as I like programming, I love the artistic side of the whole process that much more and would much rather focus on modeling, animating, rigging, etc.
Would you say VFS helped you reach your goal of breaking into the industry despite coming in with a Computer Science background? Does your CS degree give you an edge even in the slightest now, or is it unimportant? And if it is unimportant, do you think having the CS degree hinders you compared to a traditional Art degree?

[Towley]

VFS definitely helped me in my goal to break into the VFX industry, without them I wouldn't have the reel I have. I'm actually graduating in July, but since finishing my reel in mid June I have already had an interview with a big Vancouver VFX company and my reel isn't even online yet! So I owe a lot to VFS and my own hard work.

I think the CS degree is a good thing to have, it shows you have a good technical understanding of computers and are a good problem solver amoung other things.

VFS will help you achieve your artistic goals, the degree is a good thing to have to show you are also technically minded. Not having an artistic background is not a big deal, aslong as you have a good eye for detail and can work well with colour it'll be fine, and at your time at VFS you will train you eye to see the kind of details I'm talking about.

[Towley]

Just to clarify, I'm not saying VFS is 100% the thing to do for you, training yourself or learning on the job (if your lucky enough to get one) is a great way to go. But I can't dispute the fact that VFS did help me a lot.

[hismasterpiece]

Forgive me for the lengthy post :)

I will be graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science in 2011, which makes me sort of a jack-of-all-trades type in that I am skilled at reading and writing code, yet have taken a strong personal interest in 3D graphics and animation. My school doesn't offer anything in the ballpark of modeling or animation (the closest is art history - which is not close).

I am really serious about taking my abilities to the next level, which can only go so far working by myself with no real feedback from classmates who have any skill using programs like Max or Photoshop. I've spoken on the phone with a VFS admissions advisor and they say that a student with a background like mine is actually a great fit for their 3D Animation and Visual Effects program, as long as I have a demo reel that shows motivation and potential - that I would be shocked at some of the quality of reels that student get admitted with.

I've read a lot of posts talking about how VFS will take anyone's money, and I just want to make sure I don't fall victim to that. Are these claims valid? I really am very motivated so I wouldn't get admitted just to slack off. Also, although you don't get any sort of Master's from VFS, is it typical for someone to attend VFS after going to a four year school?

Heya,I'm waiting to go VFS so my answer may not be accurate.. but yeah there are claims that the school takes your money. But does it matter? They are well known for their networks and teaching, so as long as you work hard and not slack off, I believe you'll be getting your money's worth.
Oh I'm attending VFS after a 3 yr diploma in polytechnic. So I'll have 2 diplomas by the end of VFS. Haha (:

[roderickweise]

Heya,I'm waiting to go VFS so my answer may not be accurate.. but yeah there are claims that the school takes your money. But does it matter? They are well known for their networks and teaching, so as long as you work hard and not slack off, I believe you'll be getting your money's worth.
Oh I'm attending VFS after a 3 yr diploma in polytechnic. So I'll have 2 diplomas by the end of VFS. Haha (:
They took my money and ran with it. The school promised me that I would get a loan and that students have gotten them same loan just two weeks before me. So I signed up and submitted my art work. I got accepted and needed to pay 2500$ to save my seat. Well I applyed for the loan and didnt get it. I applyed several times for it and didnt get it. I called the school and asked what was the deal and I asked if I could get a portion of my 2500 I sent them. They denied it and they stopped calling me and havnt worked through this to help me. I say screw vfs and attend a better school like think tanke traing centre.

[PeterRabel]

Well, according to their refund policy, you should have gotten all but about $500 back from them unless you were near the start date. In which case you weren't supposed to get your money back.


I would have ran into the exact same situation, but I avoided it. I wasn't going to pay in until I knew I was going to get the loan. I was accepted and all ready to pay the initial $2500, but I waited and applied for a "fake" loan from Sallie Mae. You can only take a loan out up to 6 months before the start of a term, so I told sallie mae I was starting 6 months from the time I applied from the loan. My actual start date was a year from then, but I just wanted to see if I would be accepted or not. I was denied. As a result I spent the next year working to get more money and improving my credit while waiting for this recession to settle down.

I re-applied for the loan, and got accepted, so now I'm paying in for my seat.

[ShadowM8]

My advice to all new people starting on this journey is to play to your strength, if you have a CS degree then by all means go into the TD field! It's the most thought after trade in the industry these days.
I know that it might be exciting and tantalizing to go out and become a matt painter (just an example as its as far removed from CS as I can think of) and while it certainly is possible just make sure to have a common sense and honest approach to your skills, talents and eventual prospects of getting a job!!!

And yes it is very common for people to attend VFS after a 4 year degree program. It is also true the admissions screening is weak at the best of times. You definitely shouldn't expect the same pedigree of artists you'd see at Cal Arts or other schools actualy requiring a portoflio.

[z3phon]

edit: Nevermind.

[Towley]

My reel from my time at VFS (and a couple of months after) and I can confidently say I would not be at the level I'm at without what I learnt at VFS, so for me, it was well worth the money.

http://www.cgcritic.com/reel/will-towle-vfx-reel-2010

[roderickweise]

Well, according to their refund policy, you should have gotten all but about $500 back from them unless you were near the start date. In which case you weren't supposed to get your money back.


I would have ran into the exact same situation, but I avoided it. I wasn't going to pay in until I knew I was going to get the loan. I was accepted and all ready to pay the initial $2500, but I waited and applied for a "fake" loan from Sallie Mae. You can only take a loan out up to 6 months before the start of a term, so I told sallie mae I was starting 6 months from the time I applied from the loan. My actual start date was a year from then, but I just wanted to see if I would be accepted or not. I was denied. As a result I spent the next year working to get more money and improving my credit while waiting for this recession to settle down.

I re-applied for the loan, and got accepted, so now I'm paying in for my seat.
I would have done the same thing but sali may wouldnt do anything with the loan till I showed that I got accepted and had a start date.

[PeterRabel]

My reel from my time at VFS (and a couple of months after) and I can confidently say I would not be at the level I'm at without what I learnt at VFS, so for me, it was well worth the money.

http://www.cgcritic.com/reel/will-towle-vfx-reel-2010 Good to know. Very nice reel!

@roderickweise - when I applied for the fake loan I had been accepted, but I had deleyed paying VFS until I had made sure I had the loan. They wont process the loan unless you've already paid in to the school to reserve your seat, but they should give you a "yes" or "no". At least that's how it worked out for me.

[roderickweise]

Good to know. Very nice reel!

@roderickweise - when I applied for the fake loan I had been accepted, but I had deleyed paying VFS until I had made sure I had the loan. They wont process the loan unless you've already paid in to the school to reserve your seat, but they should give you a "yes" or "no". At least that's how it worked out for me.
Ok I got ya well I am happy the loan didnt work out at the time. I am going to attend Think Tank Training centre I got approved for the loan and everything.

[nomar289]

So is VFS a school you go to after high school or more of a secondary school?

[ShadowM8]

Eric it depends whether you want to have a college education or not. If you don't then by all means go there after high school. Bare in mind though if you prove to be not that talented which unfortunately does happen sometimes, you are stuck with 50k + in debt and nothing to show for it!
My advice is to go to college and get a degree in something that's going to help you in the field, be in computer science or fine art. And if you do go with fine art spend the time actually becoming a good artist and not passing bs classes.

Bare in mind I went to VFS right after high school myself so I'm not bias either way, just my opinion after being in this industry for quite a few years.

[ai888]

so what's the average age of students there? i'm nearing 30 and i'm considering a change of careers. i've always been interested in computer animation, but i don't want to seem like the grand pappy there.

[ShadowM8]

I'd say average age is round 25

[tsaktuo]

so what's the average age of students there? i'm nearing 30 and i'm considering a change of careers. i've always been interested in computer animation, but i don't want to seem like the grand pappy there.

25 is about right for the average age. I'm about to graduate (3D82) and I am turning 30 in January. I have 4 or 5 classmates around my age or older.

[Sotey]

Is there anyone around that has/is going to VFS from the U.S. that is relying on some kind of aid to fully pay their way? I basically just want to know if it's possible. I have no savings, and my parents are flat broke, but my grandparents have just about as close to perfect credit as you can get and are willing to co-sign for anything I need.

So simply put, with a good co-signer, is it possible for a US citz to have their full cost of going to VFS covered by some kind of aid/loan(paid AFTER school).

Tried to keep is short and to the point, any help is immensely appreciated.

[roderickweise]

Is there anyone around that has/is going to VFS from the U.S. that is relying on some kind of aid to fully pay their way? I basically just want to know if it's possible. I have no savings, and my parents are flat broke, but my grandparents have just about as close to perfect credit as you can get and are willing to co-sign for anything I need.

So simply put, with a good co-signer, is it possible for a US citz to have their full cost of going to VFS covered by some kind of aid/loan(paid AFTER school).

Tried to keep is short and to the point, any help is immensely appreciated.
I would say yes and no. When I applied for a loan for vfs I could only get 40k with a co signer and it would cost me about 75k.

[MrConterno]

What is VFS's main 3d software?

[rustEdge]

About the software the use, it depends on the program. For game design and game-related modeling classes Max would be the primary. I took Digital Design from VFS and we had Cinema4D as our main 3d app. I'm guessing Maya and XSI would be more for the film-related courses.

[PeterRabel]

The main 3d software we use is Maya. We also use Zbrush and there is XSI installed on the computers, but I haven't heard any mention of anyone using it.

[MrConterno]

thank you both much

[MrConterno]

Looks like I might be joining you guys this October, apparently there was a last minuet opening. Still waiting to see if I can get my loan but pretty sure I can.

Anyone around that is starting in October? I'd like to meet some of you.

E-mail mrconterno@hotmail.com
Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/MrConterno

[Okilo11]

I got in to attend August 2011 after I graduate, I'll be able to meet you in your 5th/6th term.

[MrConterno]

I got in to attend August 2011 after I graduate, I'll be able to meet you in your 5th/6th term.

Can meet up and give you some pointers :p

[bludragon88]

Hey guys, after reading almost all of this thread, I still have a couple of questions left.

So I know there are beginners that attend the program, but what about somewhat experience people in the industry? I say somewhat, because of those people who have worked on 3D jobs (whether it be freelance or entry level positions) looking to expand their skill set and pump out a better demo reel hoping to be hired by a bigger mainstream studio. Anyone know people in this situation attending the school that can expand on this?

Also, someone mentioned a couple pages before (so Im guessing it was quite recent) that vfs now provides students with Intious 4 tablets, is this true? I was planning on buying a new wacom but im hoping they do so i don't need to spend money on a new one (currently using a bamboo fun, the smallest one btw :D)

Im glad to say that i will be attending in August 2011!
Anyone else have the same start date?

[tsaktuo]

I just graduated from the program (3d82). There were a few people who had industry experience who were looking to do exactly as you say, expand their portfolio or create a better demo reel. I can tell you that those who go into it, believing they know it all and not learning from mentor/teachers will not benefit. There is one student in the class behind me who refuses to listen to constructive criticism.

To answer your second question, yes there are Intuous 4 tablets available to you now. You still have to share with other classes, but they are brand new and pretty large.

[bludragon88]

Ah good point. Then there should be no reason for them to attend the school in the first placee imo.
How do scholarships work? And how do you apply for one, it says nothing on their website but some people on this thread have gotten one. Any ideas?

[Okilo11]

Can meet up and give you some pointers :p

I'll take any advice thrown my way :) Do you know which path you want to go down yet? (As far as modeling, animation, vfx)

[tsaktuo]

Ah good point. Then there should be no reason for them to attend the school in the first placee imo.
How do scholarships work? And how do you apply for one, it says nothing on their website but some people on this thread have gotten one. Any ideas?

About the scholarship, I'm not quite sure. I believe they give students who have outstanding art skills fresh from high school in Vancouver, a look first. Don't quote me on that though.

You can apply for a scholarship during term 6 of your program year, in which you will be eligible for an extra term or few months to polish your demo reel. This is really a post-scholarship.

[googboog8]

Ah good point. Then there should be no reason for them to attend the school in the first placee imo.
How do scholarships work? And how do you apply for one, it says nothing on their website but some people on this thread have gotten one. Any ideas?
you get a scholarship after 1 year, an extra two months to work on your demoreel. (if you're work is good enough and you want to continue)

vfs doesn't offer any scholarships for the entire course (it did in 2008 and that was heavily covered on youtube). i knew someone who was at vfs through a scholarship but that was provided by their own country, not by the school

[bludragon88]

ahh good to know, thanks! I guess those 2 months would be good for rendering, but probably unnesessary if planned out properly, but then again that depends on the person and type or reel being done.

So who's going next year?? Lets chat :p

[ninjatofu]

Nevermind...

[Intervain]

ahh good to know, thanks! I guess those 2 months would be good for rendering, but probably unnesessary if planned out properly,
:scream: good luck planning properly - the scholarship is a very good bonus that definitely helps you polish your reel in peace and hunt for a job while you're there

[bludragon88]

Thanks magda, is that what you did while u were there?

[colesslaw]

Don't know if things have changed now. But when I was still at VFS, you are not allowed to plan for pushing all the rendering to the 2 scholarship months. You are still required to have a reel rendered by your normal graduation date, and the extra 2 scholarship months are for improving what you had.

ahh good to know, thanks! I guess those 2 months would be good for rendering, but probably unnesessary if planned out properly, but then again that depends on the person and type or reel being done.

So who's going next year?? Lets chat :p

[astuteterror]

Anyone joined DCA for Jan 2011 entry ?

[TrevorTang]

ahh good to know, thanks! I guess those 2 months would be good for rendering, but probably unnesessary if planned out properly, but then again that depends on the person and type or reel being done.

So who's going next year?? Lets chat :p

You probably would dig a hole for yourself. Since scholarships (when I went) are based on who is best in the Class. If you came to the end of your year with no renders, you probably wouldn't get the scholarship, and have no reel. Unless you have access to a render farm Good luck.

Be smart and plan out your time. It's easy to lose track of it, and suddenly your demo reel is due.

Btw you guy's are lucky. LCD's, Inu'4's. We had huge honking CRT's and a handfull of Inu2's back in 07'

[jesse92]

So i read that Fundation visual art and design = 1 year
Vissual effects and animation = 1 year

So 2 years to get the professional lvl? why in other schools like SCAD or AAU.. is 4-5 years.. and people from VFS get better prepared in 2 years?, 3 if they continue with the 6 months advance program.

Now, i know Gnomon does something similar, but if we add the Fundations program to the CG program, its 3 years for Gnomon, more understandable than 2 years, i mean 1 year basics, and 1 year CG? isnt that like, i dont know, i mean, how much can someone learn in 1 year?

My question is, will the 2 years of education at VFS will be enough to get good enough no get into the industry? or is it expected to have a former education before going to VFS?

[rustEdge]

I only took up the VFS Digital Design Program (one year, multidisciplinary course for Motion, Interactive, Print, and Branding.), I skipped Foundation. From what I've heard from my classmates, Foundation is more for if you have little to no experience in the industry you want to specialize in. Or in case you're not sure what career path would be right for you. You could liken it to the first two or three years of an art college.
From my experience, the one year you spend *can* get you industry-ready. A lot of the instructors have affiliations with the industry, or work in it themselves, so they can focus teaching more of what's currently in demand. Here's the catch. You have to give at least 200% effort to what's expected of you. Never stop asking your instructors and colleagues how you can one-up your own work. If you've seen something cool, see if you can do better. There's a reason why the campuses are open 24 hours a day, you know.
In Digital Design, our classes are usually from 9am to 9pm for the first four terms, then we get to choose our electives after that. Most of the free time we have, we use for homework and projects. Some of us actually stay awake and work for 48+hours at a time, me included. So if you count the hours you spend in VFS, it's at least two years' worth compared to the other schools.
We had several guys who started in Print and suddenly went into Interactive with practically zero experience in that field. And they're doing pretty well now. It's all a matter of you pushing yourself to make something better than what's already been done before. (This sounds like a generic answer I know, but it's really what has to be done if you expect to get industry-ready within one year.)

Cheers,
-gene

[jesse92]

So, I talked to this Advisor from VFS, and she says that they are going to make something, i dont know how its called, but it enables international students to stay in canada, for a year, to look for a job, and if you find a job, you get your work visa for 3 years or something like that, maybe she was just trying to " sell the product" you know, but, lets say this is true, and lets say i graduate and i manage to find a job somewhere in canada, so thats it? i mean, i made it? now what i need to do is after the 3 years of working experience apply for some kind of permanent resident visa or extend my work visa? so i wouldnt need a degree after all to obtain a work visa...

[TrevorTang]

So i read that Fundation visual art and design = 1 year
Vissual effects and animation = 1 year


You can skip the Foundation if you already have a 2D or 3D portfolio to submit -> gets approved.

VFS is what you make it to be. They teach you the tools, but the hard work and level of detail is dependant on the student. Usually if you already have a strong 2D background you'll come out with a better modelling reel that most of the class your in. I cannot speak for Animation or VFX, although if your more the brainy type, you usually do better in either rigging or VFX I've noticed.

If you want to stay in Canada, you pretty much need to find a job ASAP that can help you with a work Visa.

[gbenard]

So, I talked to this Advisor from VFS, and she says that they are going to make something, i dont know how its called, but it enables international students to stay in canada, for a year, to look for a job, and if you find a job, you get your work visa for 3 years or something like that...

There have been some changes to the Work Permit process this past year and rumours of more changes coming next year. I have heard that there is discussion or lobbying underway to allow students in PRIVATE career training colleges, such as VFS and others, to access the Post-Graduate Work Permit (currently only for PUBLIC universities), which allows for students to apply for an open work permit equal to the length of their studies. If you study for one-year, you get a one-year permit.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-postgrad.asp

There has been no publicly released information about this and we will not know for sure until spring, I would think. Keep an eye on the government website for updates:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work.asp

[jesse92]

Hey Thanks for the response gbenard, i hope they make it happen. :)

[DeVinci]

Anyone has some feedback on the Foundation Art and Design program ?

[ShadowM8]

Thanks for that info Gillian, it would be great if this indeed came through!

[pandasaurus]

nevermind this post.
sorry

[SheikAmjath]

This thread is full of useful information! Thank you all ... I will be in VFS for June intake this year .. ;)

[DanielSound]

Hi Sheik! Just got accepted to start 3D & VFX at June 27 as well :D Guess we'll be classmates ^^

[SheikAmjath]

Hey Daniel , See you this June!

[Daveblueband]

I will be attending in June 2011 as well - can't wait!

[guismo]

Hey guys, after reading almost all of this thread, I still have a couple of questions left.

So I know there are beginners that attend the program, but what about somewhat experience people in the industry? I say somewhat, because of those people who have worked on 3D jobs (whether it be freelance or entry level positions) looking to expand their skill set and pump out a better demo reel hoping to be hired by a bigger mainstream studio. Anyone know people in this situation attending the school that can expand on this?


I wonder this too and it was not answered.

Actually, I wonder a lot of things, even after reading almost all pages. I am not sure if I should ask here or make a new topic.

Anyway, his question is the most important for me. I already work as a generalist here in brazil, and I am satisfied with the jobs I can get. But I am not, by far, satisfied to the quality of my work. My only reason to be attending VFS (or another school) would be to get out of there with an improvement to my work that I could not have done by myself.

Now, I am not like the majority of the people I saw posting here. I am already 30 years old and it is not my mother or father or loans that are going to pay it. It would be the savings of my entire life. I will finally have money to do one of this 2 things:

-Spend up to 5 years here in brazil by myself, without having to worry about work or freelancing, trying to improve my work by myself, like I have always done, but with a time to dedicate myself that I never had (and so far I have not got very far)

- Trust in a school overseas to provide me what I could not do by myself, and return without any money.

I understand that no one but myself can answer this question. And I can not answer it either. Both might fail for many reasons. But I ask those who attended VFS or other school like that if the way that the content is passed to students will allow me not to spend time learning what I already know or I do not need and maximize the skills I already have/want to have.

Someone said back here that you spend 3 months learning what is a polygon and 6 months making your reel. Am I going to pay about 70 thousand dollars to learn for 3 months then?

Understand that I am not saying that I would not learn a lot reviewing the basics and making my reel. But I believe this kind of thing I can do alone. I would not like to pay to review basics and create a reel, I would like to pay for a pedagogic methodology, for planned steps created by people with prior knowledge. To explain better, I want to pay for the exact thing I saw many people here complaining; for the lack of freedom. I want someone I trust to tell me what to do, how to do it and when to do it. Because they know better then I. But only if this will really improve my work. If I can really trust they can help me.

That being explained, I ask if VFS is the right place for me. And if there are other options I could have. The other options I studied so far:

-Think Tank, but they are too oriented to modelling, and I wanted to focus more on rendering and effects. Anyone here went there? Can I have VFS level of rendering and effects there? Also, it is 20 thousand dollars cheaper then VFS. I could go there and still come back with some money.

-Lost Boys, but despite very good reviews around here, the student reels seems to be very weak. Most of them I could do myself. And I can not find the price. Does anyone knows? And would I have to do a lot of filming stuff? Is this really useful to learn the 3d part?

-Others, they are either in non english schools, are more then 2 years long or are in the United states. I really do not think I can get a vista for that country without too much trouble. Is there another good school I could go to that is less then 2 years?

There are many other questions, but I am trying not to be too confusing. So that is it for now.


If it helps anyone analyse my case, here is my reel:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dV-uzAzOXuw

I do not consider it good, but there are many students reels in many schools that are not better. If I will spent my whole savings, I should at least expect to get better then this, right?

And I will talk tomorrow by phone with an advisor. But I expect a lot of marketing talk. I come here looking for honesty the advisor probably can not give me.

[jesse92]

Hey Guismo, i saw your reel, and i think you would not get a lot of improvement by getting into a regular program, you should use that money to get into something like advance workshops online, like those master classes gnomon had some months ago, because if you go to school you'll get basic stuff and then you are going to pay a hell of a lot of money to polish your reel for 7 months or whatever, something you could do on your own and by watching your reel i dont think getting the basics again would help you at all...

So bottom line... stay at home, get into advance online workshops, improve yourself as much as you can, set the bar up as high as you can, challenge yourself as you never did before.

But all this is just my opinion... a 18 old animation student. : )

[PeterRabel]

I agree with Jesse92. Looking at your reel, you wont get nearly $60,000 worth of improvement. VFS does not teach effects simulations (fluids, particles, cloth, etc...). Take gnomon's master classes and practice traditional art skills.

The benefits of going to vfs for you would probably be:
- motivation to work 12 hours a day 7 days a week for a year
- practice
- being surrounded by peers all day every day

The teachers are great and they know a lot. The question would be how much of that knowledge you could absorb. You have to keep in mind that the program is designed for people who have never touched 3d before. It can be frustrating if you have experience, you will learn almost nothing new from classes in the first 6 months. You have to spend time after the classes doing your learning.

[guismo]

Thanks a huge lot for your opinions guys. I am kind of sad with that, as this idea of going to vancouver to get a "magical touch" that would make my work better was getting me quite excited. But this is a lot of money for a vague hope.


- motivation to work 12 hours a day 7 days a week for a year
- practice
- being surrounded by peers all day every day


Yes, that is what I think as well. But you know what? There is another place where you can get that. The place where I learned most of what I know. At work. After I got a little portfolio, I went to são paulo and was fortunate enough to be accepted in a studio where I would get exactly that. Lots of talented people around me, lots of work, lots of motivation (besides income and not being fired).

Unfortunately são paulo is one of the most disgusting cities in the world, and most jobs that will make me learn are there. I do not consider any human being should live there, not even for learning.

So.. I guess I will try that; spend some time studying at home with online classes and/or look for another job to learn in a city I can live in.

This is probably not the topic for it; but with this portfolio, can I get a temporary job in some country? Canada for instance? Maybe as a trainee or something. If there is any studio that would hire me (there probably is, if I can get hired here), would it be possible legally?

Spend 6 months, 1 year or so working somewhere. Any advice on that?
Not that I could not do it here in brazil. But big cities around here use to be really horrible and uncivilized places. But then again, this would be temporary. So maybe I could go back to são paulo...

But in any way, your opinions were what I needed to hear. I will still talk to the advisor, but I am sure he will say something like "of course you will improve a lot, you just need to focus a lot by your own".

[PeterRabel]

My roommate is from brazil and he went through the Digital Character Animation course at VFS. He has been looking for work for about 3 months and has not been able to find it. I'm fairly certain that has a lot to do with the fact that he's from brazil. Getting a working visa is difficult because you have to be sponsored by the company that wants to hire you. If the company can find enough local talent, they often don't want to bother with that.

That is one other benefit I forgot to mention about VFS. A law was just passed in January that allows students who graduate from school to get a 1 year working visa in canada. You don't even have to work in your field. I am not sure which schools up here qualify for that, but I know VFS does.

You're exactly right. You can get all of those things on the job if you work at a good studio. VFS basically gives people work experience in a studio, or as close to that as a school can offer. It's a valuable thing if you aren't good enough to get hired yet.

[guismo]

Yes, I suppose it would be a lot of trouble looking for a job in another country. If I go after that, I suppose it is better to look for it here in brazil.

Anyway, I talked to the advisor moments ago. And is it hard to talk to someone in english! I have never talked to a native english speaker and it was quite a stressful experience. I wonder how would it be like in the first days or weeks living there...

She told me what I expected. That yes, I will improve my work there. That if VFS can not, no one else can. That they do not accept reels without good experience and that most people there are people in my situation; around 30 year with already a good experience in the field. Like she said, "looking for the next step".

This is quite a contrast to what I read in this 90 pages. Through this topic I learned that the VFS has a majority of people from 19-25 years, going from highschool or from another field, with little to no experience that are mostly wanting to get a job in this field.

Who to believe in? I do not know. But in any way, she told me that it would take about an year to get there. Though she also told me to hurry up (something that I also read here they would say), I do not see much difference between 1 year or 1 year and a half. So I will take my time to decide and just calm down.

[almagesto]

Yes, I suppose it would be a lot of trouble looking for a job in another country. If I go after that, I suppose it is better to look for it here in brazil.

Anyway, I talked to the advisor moments ago. And is it hard to talk to someone in english! I have never talked to a native english speaker and it was quite a stressful experience. I wonder how would it be like in the first days or weeks living there...

She told me what I expected. That yes, I will improve my work there. That if VFS can not, no one else can. That they do not accept reels without good experience and that most people there are people in my situation; around 30 year with already a good experience in the field. Like she said, "looking for the next step".

This is quite a contrast to what I read in this 90 pages. Through this topic I learned that the VFS has a majority of people from 19-25 years, going from highschool or from another field, with little to no experience that are mostly wanting to get a job in this field.

Who to believe in? I do not know. But in any way, she told me that it would take about an year to get there. Though she also told me to hurry up (something that I also read here they would say), I do not see much difference between 1 year or 1 year and a half. So I will take my time to decide and just calm down.


sorry but they told u loooots of bullshits as they want ur $$$ :)

they told me the same and i spent almost the first 6 months getting bored as they start from the basic.
in most of the classes there r lots of young people with NO 3d experience....
trust me: if u know 3d already and u r looking for the next step then buy some digital tutors tutorial and watch them as at VFS they will tell u the same (or actually less) for much more money....
there is no secret 3D, secret way to do things that at VFS they teach u and in other places you cant get... video tutorials show u the same and much more.

i wish someone told me that before i paid lots of $$ for VFS..................

[guismo]

sorry but they told u loooots of bullshits as they want ur $$$ :)

they told me the same and i spent almost the first 6 months getting bored as they start from the basic.
in most of the classes there r lots of young people with NO 3d experience....
trust me: if u know 3d already and u r looking for the next step then buy some digital tutors tutorial and watch them as at VFS they will tell u the same (or actually less) for much more money....
there is no secret 3D, secret way to do things that at VFS they teach u and in other places you cant get... video tutorials show u the same and much more.

i wish someone told me that before i paid lots of $$ for VFS..................

Actually, I am very surprised by the amount of time, attention and sincerity they spent with me over the phone and email.

The advisor told me this things that I said. But she was not sure. So she asked me a link to my portfolio and showed it to some teachers there. They then phoned me here and explained that, indeed, they teach basics. That they prepare the students with portfolio and know how of the industry, of how to work under pressure and under deadlines.

And he told me that by my portfolio I already knew my way around at a work place. And my objective (to increase my habilities in render and vfx) is very specific and I would not get as much value with my time there as would someone who have never worked in a studio.

I would still learn stuff. But he could not be sure that in the end I would think it was worthy 50 thousand dollars. My entire life savings.

This made me a little sad, as I was really looking into it. But this is a lot of money that I would get little back as results.

Anyway, I no longer have this idea that they are only after money. If it was here in brazil, I am sure no school would have told me that. I am sad for not going there, but I am very happy because I could have made a terrible mistake and they help me.

[brunofx]

I have been thinking about go to VFS for more than 5 year and only now I could save the necessary money, so I have all of those doubts too, Im getting crazy and I cant stop thinking about this! It is too much money to take a risk! It is very difficult to make all the doubts clear because we hear many different things and we can't trust in our advisor from VFS because OF COURSE he want sell it, but I cant disagree with one thing, many people here say it "dosen't worth go to VFS" because is too expensive and they will teach you only basic things that you can easily find by yourself on the internet FOR FREE. But if it is really true how can they have many great demo reels? Maybe because this great demo reels is from people that went to VFS already having a lot of experience?! I don't know...

People here on the CGSociety and from VFS always say about VFS will help you to make your demo reel, everything make me thing, 60k to have someone by my side helping me to do a demo reel?! That is it?! I know if you want get on this field the demo reel is the most important thing but come on!!! 60k!? Do you guys know another good school in Vancouver cheaper than VFS? The only thing that didn't let me gave up until now about VFS is because of the new work permit, because Im from Brazil and I really want to move out to Vancouver.

I read many pages here but I couldn't find anything about another very important thing too, the salary! Everyone here work with CG because of passion, me too, but I do care about my future and my money too, so please help me guys! People that went to VFS or people that already have or had a job in Vancouver think about it? How much the industry is paying for a beginner, for a senior and for a recently graduated student in VFS, I asked the last one because the school have a big name so I hope that students from there to even not been so good.

[tula]

Hi there,
I am well knowledgeable about the school situation around town, as I have attended a school here and am now working in the industry.
First I have to say that your instincts/fears about paying too much for a school like VFS are correct. Dont do it! 60 thousands of dollars is crazy!!! And they do not guarantee you work at all. So when someone says the adviser wants your money, they are right...they are trying to run a business! And you are the fuel.
Learning online can be fine for some people, but you may still feel like you need guidance. If you are already into VFX, I would suggest a school like Lost Boys Learning. They focus on VFX, and can tailor to your skill level. Plus the teachers there are actually high level VFX proffessionals themselves. That school has a 98% hire rate so its a good chance for you.(no the school doesn not pay me, but I work with a couple of the grads from there...)
The reels that people actually see coming out of VFS are the ones they advertise. 80% of the work that is completed by students, that you dont see on the sites, is actually really bad. Just go to a grad show. I am sure some of the students did not work hard, or were not talented, but also I think the school promises a lot and in a short time,and realistically can not deliver on that promise.
Why do I care to tell you this stuff? Because my cousin lost a lot of money, when he could have bought an apartment, and he is back working at his old job. Maybe it is his fault, but the promises that a lot of these schools say, can not come true in reality. In fact I think in canada and america the private school are being investigated because of these practices.
In my opinion( after Many conversations with people that I work with):
If you want to become an animator- go to Animation Mentor online, or a small focused school ( Think Tank in Vancouver). If you then have lots of money and time and want to make a short film with support and guidance, then maybe try VFS after doing a focused school.
If you want to be a modeller, VFS is good- my modelling supervisor went there and some years later his work still looks good. But he already had experience when he went, and actually he is talented.( an no he is not paying me to say that). Also I see good modeling reels come from The Art Institute in Vancouver ( but terrible animation reels, and so-so vfx reels). I think AI is 30 thousand for 2 years.
If you want to be a VFX professional, Lost Boys Learning is hands down the best school- but I have seen good stuff come from VFS too. But the compositor I work with that went to VFS says he wouldnt go there if he knew what he knows about it now. And actually a lot of the VFX reels thatcome from VFS are like little short films and not really focused on a skill set that is practical. Its like a lot of work for a small amount of skill.
Anyways I just thought I would give you some ideas. Also you cant work in Canad easily after doing that school because they don't give degrees. Something like that, I am not sure, but I know that a lot of people that come from other countries think they can stay in Canada after vFS, and they cant.
Good luck and work hard. As for the wage question, I know the starting salary here at my company is 35 thousand a year. is that good or bad? I dont know.
I love this business, but I have no life and I work very hard! But its fun! Good luck to you all.

[brunofx]

Hi there,
I am well knowledgeable about the school situation around town, as I have attended a school here and am now working in the industry.
First I have to say that your instincts/fears about paying too much for a school like VFS are correct. Dont do it! 60 thousands of dollars is crazy!!! And they do not guarantee you work at all. So when someone says the adviser wants your money, they are right...they are trying to run a business! And you are the fuel.
Learning online can be fine for some people, but you may still feel like you need guidance. If you are already into VFX, I would suggest a school like Lost Boys Learning. They focus on VFX, and can tailor to your skill level. Plus the teachers there are actually high level VFX proffessionals themselves. That school has a 98% hire rate so its a good chance for you.(no the school doesn not pay me, but I work with a couple of the grads from there...)
The reels that people actually see coming out of VFS are the ones they advertise. 80% of the work that is completed by students, that you dont see on the sites, is actually really bad. Just go to a grad show. I am sure some of the students did not work hard, or were not talented, but also I think the school promises a lot and in a short time,and realistically can not deliver on that promise.
Why do I care to tell you this stuff? Because my cousin lost a lot of money, when he could have bought an apartment, and he is back working at his old job. Maybe it is his fault, but the promises that a lot of these schools say, can not come true in reality. In fact I think in canada and america the private school are being investigated because of these practices.
In my opinion( after Many conversations with people that I work with):
If you want to become an animator- go to Animation Mentor online, or a small focused school ( Think Tank in Vancouver). If you then have lots of money and time and want to make a short film with support and guidance, then maybe try VFS after doing a focused school.
If you want to be a modeller, VFS is good- my modelling supervisor went there and some years later his work still looks good. But he already had experience when he went, and actually he is talented.( an no he is not paying me to say that). Also I see good modeling reels come from The Art Institute in Vancouver ( but terrible animation reels, and so-so vfx reels). I think AI is 30 thousand for 2 years.
If you want to be a VFX professional, Lost Boys Learning is hands down the best school- but I have seen good stuff come from VFS too. But the compositor I work with that went to VFS says he wouldnt go there if he knew what he knows about it now. And actually a lot of the VFX reels thatcome from VFS are like little short films and not really focused on a skill set that is practical. Its like a lot of work for a small amount of skill.
Anyways I just thought I would give you some ideas. Also you cant work in Canad easily after doing that school because they don't give degrees. Something like that, I am not sure, but I know that a lot of people that come from other countries think they can stay in Canada after vFS, and they cant.
Good luck and work hard. As for the wage question, I know the starting salary here at my company is 35 thousand a year. is that good or bad? I dont know.
I love this business, but I have no life and I work very hard! But its fun! Good luck to you all.

Thank you very much Tula!!! It helped me a lot! And I’m sorry for your cousin, I thought the same thing, should I buy one apartment or go to VFS hauhauahuahuaha The demo reel of this school Lost Boys is amazing, better than the demo reel from VFS! And the price is so much better! Probably it is really a very good school. I tried to call then to ask more information but no one answered, it let me a little bit worried about the structure of the school but anyway I sent an e-mail and now I'm waiting for the answer, Why you told me that this is a school is for people that is already inside the industry? They don’t teach from the beginning? And trying to guess, the school is super far away from Vancouver so maybe I will not meet anyone from the industry until I’m working, thing that I really think that is import because I’m thinking about stay in Vancouver, because the government now is changing a few things and now a few school have a post graduation work visa that will allow me to work for the same duration of my studies. And about the salary 35k per year is the start but anyone know how far this salary can reach a few year later?

[almagesto]

many people here say it "dosen't worth go to VFS" because is too expensive and they will teach you only basic things that you can easily find by yourself on the internet FOR FREE. But if it is really true how can they have many great demo reels? Maybe because this great demo reels is from people that went to VFS already having a lot of experience?! I don't know...

People here on the CGSociety and from VFS always say about VFS will help you to make your demo reel, everything make me thing, 60k to have someone by my side helping me to do a demo reel?! That is it?! I know if you want get on this field the demo reel is the most important thing but come on!!! 60k!? Do you guys know another good school in Vancouver cheaper than VFS? The only thing that didn't let me gave up until now about VFS is because of the new work permit, because Im from Brazil and I really want to move out to Vancouver.

I read many pages here but I couldn't find anything about another very important thing too, the salary! Everyone here work with CG because of passion, me too, but I do care about my future and my money too, so please help me guys! People that went to VFS or people that already have or had a job in Vancouver think about it? How much the industry is paying for a beginner, for a senior and for a recently graduated student in VFS, I asked the last one because the school have a big name so I hope that students from there to even not been so good.


it s not worth to go to VFS because if you dont have experience in 3D you can get the basic of 3D in any school, for much less money.
then when you know the basic you can do the rest on ur own or still find a cheaper school.

yes most of the amazing reel from VFS r from people who have previous experience or that are VERY talented.
in a class of 30 people you can find 1 or 2 amazing reel, 3 to 5 that are good and all the rest is crap, not at the industry standard. but of course VFS doesnt show that.

salary for someone that starts is around 25-30k per year in vancouver as far as i know.
maybe it sounds a lot for you that live in brasil, but it s pretty low for living in vancouver. u live it s fine, but dont think u live like a king :)

[almagesto]

I definitely agree with Tula on everything.

for VFX go to Lost boys (i ve heard it s good and cheaper)

for Animation go to Animation mentor

for Modeling go to.................. mmm VFS?? still too expensive, u can find good modeling schools everywhere. BUT i have to say that the modeling mentor at VFS is really good. I dont say anything about other mentors..... if u know what i mean.

Tula said the same things i said: most of the reel at VFS r CRAP. not saying in other school r better, BUT dont judge on what they show u!
dont think u pay 60k and u ll end up with a SUPER COOL REEL like the ones u see online!!

again, i wish someone have told me all these things before i paid so much money !!!

[almagesto]

hey let s put this up. it might be useful to people isnt it?

[pingkeat]

Yes!! good for me. i started to felt that , i was childish as i thinking if i graduated from VFS then i can get higher salary than other student who graduated from other school ==..i had a wrong thinking but now i won't anymore :) .. i just graduated from my diploma in 3d animation and i wanted to work in VFX but i only explore myself from internet.. im thinking that , am i need to take a VFX course in Canada and get a job from there?

[moonfairymagic]

Hey Guys,

I have been to VFS to take the 3D Animation and Visual Effects course. And if I could go back in time, I wouldn't go there. I made a review of it on this site for you all to see. VFS's whole school is a complete fraud. Art Institute is being sued 11 billion dollars for paying recruiters commissions for each student they convinced to go to that school. I can imagine VFS does the same Ponzi scheme.

Here's my review:

I’ve been in love with animation, drawing and being creative since I was a little boy. I always dreamed of waking up every day and going to a job that really doesn’t feel like a job but feels more like having fun. I couldn’t imagine a better career than to do what I love and am most passionate about.
I choose the school for a variety of reasons. Prior to going to VFS, I was a student for Digital Animation at a local public college, and my experience there was not too favorable. One day as I was sitting in the computer lab browsing YouTube, I saw some of the VFS demo reels from the 3D Animation and Visual Effects students, and they looked amazing. That was the major factor contributing me to go to the school.
I did many things prior to going to VFS, because I knew it would be a lot of hard work to garner all the money I needed to get to go there. I talked the admissions adviser and a student who graduated from VFS. But the adviser didn’t say anything bad about the school and the student was hand-picked by the school to give a testimony to me.
My previous experience was 10 years worth of art training and 2 years worth of software training at the public college I attended. I had basic understanding of the software that the school used and thought it would be beneficial if I went there with some of the skills I acquired from my other school.
The program is broken down into 6 terms. The first 2 terms deal with 3D modeling and animating, texturing, life drawing, classical animation and visual storytelling. The third term deals with the same but most of it with concept development for your demo reel. The last 3 terms of the program deal with your demo reel, and you go to a presentation once every month to showcase you work and get critique. The last term, though, is more for rendering.
The best things that I can think of about the school are the people. I’ve meet some really great people there. VFS is an international school, and you meet people from everywhere. It’s a great multicultural environment and has a few nice teachers. Sadly, I can’t name too many good things about the school other than that.
VFS has so many bad things that as I am about to the name them off, they might make me sound like a frivolous, disgruntled student who never worked hard there or someone who just likes to complain. I am being 100% honest, and I am writing this to warn prospective students, especially the international ones. I have a duty to get my story out and warn other people. I do feel that what VFS is doing is a crime, and if my experience of VFS can better inform people about the school, I will have less of a burden on myself. Saving people from an unbelievable amount of debt and heartache is why I am doing this.
The cost to go there is beyond reasonable. The tuition is 55,000 dollars for international students and 35,500 dollars for Canadian/landed immigrant students. That’s not even including the living expenses, which is another 13,000 dollars. Each year they seem to raise the tuition more and more. I’ve seen some international students pay over 68,000 just for that one year. And some of these international students had to save for that money in a different currency and work for years. Try converting that into Mexican pesos.
The curriculum at the school is so frolicsome. While you are there at the school, you are taking some many courses you don’t need, from life drawing to classical animation to visual storytelling to character design. They were a complete waste of time, and they always got in the way of other work that was more important. Recently, since I had last checked the site, they changed their curriculum and got rid of a few courses. They also fired a few really bad teachers. The school doesn’t like other people to know how bad a lot of the students complain about the school, and at the end of each term, they get all the students to write reviews about the courses they are taking and the school tries to revamp them. But they really haven’t been taking it that seriously.
One of the biggest problems with the school is the marketing ploy. VFS spends millions of dollars a year on creating this perfect image of the school, showing all these great reels with the great posters and VFS logos. This marketing is how they are literally getting hoards of people around the world to go to Vancouver and spend a gargantuan of money. They have been doing this for years unrepentantly. A lot of the students never spoke out against the school over the misleading information the school advisers told them. What the school doesn’t want you to know is that all those amazing reels came from people with previous experience and who had taught themselves before they went there. There are a few circumstances of when some students were able to pull of some good reels in the year and they had a bare amount of experience. Even in this rare circumstance, their success was not because of the school. VFS wants to take the successes of other students who are talented and hardworking and exploit the student’s success and talent until they find another reel to showcase the school.
The school 100% owns your demo reel when you are done. This is one of the worst things about the school. They can take your reel and use it however they like in their marketing scam, further contributing to the VFS delusion. They have you sign a copyright distribution release form at the start of the year and another one I think at the end of the year.
The time spent at VFS is so minuscule. One year is not enough time to learn everything you need and so much of your time is spent on frivolous projects that don’t contribute to you getting a job. The scary thing about VFS is that the school is literally like a factory pumping students out or a vampire sucking their victim dry of money as quickly as possible. It’s unreal when you think about … treating people’s hopes and dreams like a commodity or a meal.
The school doesn’t do anything that you can’t do for yourself. They teach bare minimum of anything at all. They lie about their job placement rate. If you go, you’ll find out how many in your class will actually get a job. Some classmates will already be extremely advanced and will more than likely get a job once they graduate but others who don’t have that talent and think that school will wave a magic wand and make them a great artist think again. When it comes to being a great artist, the best teacher in the world is you. Did Leonardo di Vinci or Michelangelo go to some prissy school to be the geniuses they were? No. They worked hard, experimented and loved what they did. If you have the sort of dedication, you can do anything you want. All the best artists, 3D artists and 2D artists were self-taught and used tutorials. Why spend all that money for a piece of paper when you can do it at home a 1/100th of the cost and get more of an education.
The class size at VFS has increased a lot in the last 5 years or so. I think they added 8 new seats to a term since 2004. They used to have like 22 in a class. When I was there, it was 30 to a class, but now it’s 32. They are literally trying to squeeze as many students into a class as possible. They barely had enough space as it is, and they added 2 more. The school was saying about how popular the school is and how they wanted to increase the class size. I was baffled at how greedy the school is. Since they were able to convince many people that the school was great, they claimed VFS to be popular.
VFS has some up-to-date equipment and lots of computers and they were supposed to have added a render farm. I imagine they would try to get the best equipment, considering the amount of money it takes to go there. But students have to complain enough or the school will just slack off and do nothing at all.
It’s hectic and just flat out crazy in that school. You have to be there to experience it. The whole program is disorganized. Good luck finding a computer to render your frames for your end of term presentations. The term presentations are a waste of time, too. The teachers just there and talk out of their behind at your stuff. Most of the student’s would rather be working on other important things. Altogether, roughly 2 weeks or more of your time at that school is just sitting there at inconsequential presentations. They always make a big deal out of presentations and going to class; and if you miss a certain amount of class even if you hand everything in on time, they will kick you out no questions asked. Teachers there can be cruel too and give you a mark of zero even if something is 5 minutes late and they act all superior over it, even though you are paying their salary, and you are the customer—I mean, student. A few of the teachers are not that bad about time delays and handing things in on time. The industry doesn’t care about marks or what school you went too. That’s the 100% truth.
I wouldn’t recommend this school to anyone who is serious about the animation industry. I would also definitely not recommend this place to international students. VFS loves international students. Ninety percent of all the students there are from abroad, and I guess they think international students are easier to trick. Most international students go there to just get the diploma so they can stay and work in Canada.
If you want to learn everything you need to be a 3D artist, go to digital tutors (digitaltutors.com) or animation mentor or other online ways of learning. Also, go and download some tutorials from torrents. Many people post free tutorials too. But if you want to spend all the money and waste all that time and you are rich and have the money, go to VFS. You have nothing to lose, but if you are poor and hardworking and you are working 2 jobs like I did, I would severely advise you to reconsider.
I am not working at all right now. I am working a minimum wage job and am still working on my reel that isn’t done yet.
I would’ve listened to the art reviews on this website about VFS. I read one about VFS for the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program from a guy who had the “VFS: A Risky Investment” review. His review was a very honest and truthful one. This was a month before I started, and I was really concerned on whether or not he was right. In the end, it turns out he was, and it was lots of regret and hurt that transpired after that.
I had high expectations for this school, and I had a lot of faith in this school. I’ve meet so many nice people there at the school but such low quality in teaching and compassion destroyed a lot of my hope in human beings. VFS is a business, not a school. At the end of the day, your money meant more to VFS than your well being and dreams. I find that very rude and inhuman. I’ve heard many horror stories of students that spent all that money and were jobless at the end of the year and in so much debt they weren’t able to live adequately for a while because of student loan payments. Some had chronic stress and depression, a lot of which I am still dealing with today.
If you have read this far, you know where I stand on VFS or any other school. I am not against schooling in general but people have been trying to capitalize on the phenomena of the CGI marvel.

[TrevorTang]

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TL : DR for the most part, did try to skim most as I can.

If anything, I would take that with a grain of salt. VFS is what you make it too be. Like any school, there will people that will shine and some people that don't.

I've meet alot of people in the industry that come from VFS so they're doing something right. Most of my class did find jobs, and those are the ones who were truly dedicated to the craft got them first.

Sure the tuition price maybe a crime, but there are always risks. If I would do it again I would probably do it again if it weren't for Think Tank (for modelling at least, and Think tank just started out when I attended VFS)

As for the copyright, it's not like your going to use your student work to make money? that seems laughable, and your probably not going to reuse down the road after your in the industry. And you can still use your own reel as much as you want.

One thing I can agree on is, it is risky. Your class success depends on classmates working well w/ each other, and who is mentoring at the time. Sure you can get the same dribble learning the basics. But having good mentors and industry experienced teachers point you in the right direction and to pump out a polished reel. Somthing you can't do at home self teaching, is having peer's critique your work on a daily basis.

[BojanStankovski]

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TL : DR for the most part, did try to skim most as I can.

If anything, I would take that with a grain of salt. VFS is what you make it too be. Like any school, there will people that will shine and some people that don't.

I've meet alot of people in the industry that come from VFS so they're doing something right. Most of my class did find jobs, and those are the ones who were truly dedicated to the craft got them first.

Sure the tuition price maybe a crime, but there are always risks. If I would do it again I would probably do it again if it weren't for Think Tank (for modelling at least, and Think tank just started out when I attended VFS)

As for the copyright, it's not like your going to use your student work to make money? that seems laughable, and your probably not going to reuse down the road after your in the industry. And you can still use your own reel as much as you want.

One thing I can agree on is, it is risky. Your class success depends on classmates working well w/ each other, and who is mentoring at the time. Sure you can get the same dribble learning the basics. But having good mentors and industry experienced teachers point you in the right direction and to pump out a polished reel. Somthing you can't do at home self teaching, is having peer's critique your work on a daily basis.


I am about to go to Think Tank, Forget VFS, i heard a lot of bad reviews from very good students. Their price is crime.