Rory Neil, from Cranbrook BC, earned a BFA at University of Lethbridge and worked as a new media designer before enrolling in the VanArts 2D Character Animation diploma program from 2009 to 2010, and subsequently launched his career in animation.

Rory sent us an update on what he's been doing since graduating: "My first job was at Big Bad Boo Animation Studios where I worked on a few episodes of 1001 Nights, and then I did a short contract with Global Mechanic, which was a great place to work. Right now I'm working remotely for Toonzone Studios, based out of Los Angeles, on a show called Yoohoo and Friends, and previously worked for them on a show called Action Dad. One of my instructors from VanArts, Paul Johnson, recommended me to the company and that's how I started working for them.

VanArts was a great experience for me. I learned more there in one year than in four years in University. VanArts pushed me and expected me to do the best I possibly could. Not only did I learn how to prepare myself for a studio environment by learning the animation principles, but the school also taught me to work hard and smart. Time management is so crucial to the success of your professional and personal work, and I've been able to take what I've learned at VanArts into my current and future projects."

Check out Rory's work online at www.roryneil.com