A Wake-Up Call for CG and VFX Students: It’s Time to Step Up

Let’s have a real talk. If you’re a student entering the CG and VFX world, chances are you’re carrying not just your own dreams but the hopes and sacrifices of your family too. This journey isn’t just about you—it’s also about the time, money, and energy your parents or guardians have poured into your future. They’re backing you because they believe in your talent and your potential. But here’s the truth: belief alone won’t get you to the finish line.

I’ve seen it too many times. Students enter training programs with excitement, but somewhere along the way, the drive fades. They get comfortable, distracted, or even disheartened. Deadlines are missed, assignments lack effort, and instead of going above and beyond, they do the bare minimum. Then they graduate and realize the industry is tougher than they thought. They aren’t fully prepared, their skills aren’t sharp enough, and opportunities feel few and far between. Meanwhile, months go by, their parents still waiting for that moment when all the sacrifices will feel worth it.

Here’s the thing: the CG and VFX industries are incredible, but they’re also fiercely competitive. They don’t hand out opportunities on a silver platter. You’ve got to fight for them. That means taking your training seriously, treating every project like it’s your big break, and understanding that the effort you put in now directly shapes your future.

Think about it: how much time, energy, and money have your parents invested to get you here? They didn’t just pay for tuition—they supported you emotionally, adjusted their own priorities, and probably gave up things they wanted so you could chase your dreams. The least you can do is honor that effort by giving your best every single day.

Now, I’m not saying it’s easy. Learning CG and VFX isn’t like flipping a switch—it takes time, patience, and a lot of late nights. But that’s exactly why you can’t afford to slack off. Every tool you learn, every project you complete, and every bit of feedback you receive is part of building your foundation. You’re not just learning software; you’re learning how to think creatively, solve problems, and deliver under pressure—skills that are invaluable in this industry.

And let’s talk about what happens if you don’t put in the effort now. You graduate without a strong portfolio, without a demo reel that makes studios take notice. You start looking for work and realize you’re not prepared for the real-world demands. Suddenly, months have passed, and you’re still struggling to find that first job, wondering where it all went wrong.

The solution? It’s not rocket science—it’s commitment. Take your training seriously. Treat every project like it’s for a client. Seek feedback, even when it’s hard to hear. Spend time mastering the tools and techniques, and don’t just learn what’s taught in class—go beyond it. Watch tutorials, experiment, fail, and try again. Push yourself.

And don’t forget the big picture. This isn’t just about landing your first job—it’s about building a career that makes you proud and justifies the sacrifices your family has made. Imagine the look on your parents’ faces when they see your name in the credits of a film or a game. That’s the moment they’ve been waiting for. That’s the moment you’re working toward.

So, to every CG and VFX student out there: don’t waste this opportunity. Take it seriously. Put in the work. Because this isn’t just about your dreams—it’s about honoring the people who believed in you enough to invest in them. And trust me, when you give it your all, the rewards are worth every ounce of effort.