Derek Ugochukwu | MA in Screenwriting
We asked Derek about his experience at IADT and what the future holds for him now.
How did you come to study at IADT?
Having come from an acting background, I’ve worked with a few talented writers and directors who all studied at IADT. These are people whose work I greatly admire and I understood it wasn’t just a mere coincidence that they all hailed from such a renowned college. I knew there was something unique about IADT and I was motivated to be a part of that.
What attracted you to the college and the course you have studied here?
My first attraction to IADT was the quality of the films made by the students. I was curious to know why it always stood out from other college films I’d seen. So I began asking questions but the answer was simple. IADT invests highly in its students and its alumni are living proof of such high standard. When I saw the MA in Screenwriting course was open for application, I was instantly drawn to it. I felt it was the perfect opportunity for me to take my love for writing to a professional level.
The best thing about studying at the National Film School?
The best part about studying at the National Film School for me has to be collaborating with inventive people and having access to high-quality film equipment & TV studio. Such provision gives emerging writers like myself an avenue to create magic from paper to screen without spending a fortune especially in the early stages of your career.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m quite positive that writing is something I’ll continue to do for years to come especially now that I’ve acquired such skill from my MA in Screenwriting for Film & Television. I feel this program has prepared me for a future where I can increase the representation of coloured people in the Irish film industry by telling those stories that are both liberating and enlightening.
Favourite part of studying at IADT overall?
I found the value of studying at IADT to be priceless. I’ve learnt so much about writing for film in one year than I ever did before. The exposure to industry professionals which IADT granted me over the duration of my course and beyond is truly impeccable. In another life, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
IADT is…….?
IADT is a place for those who dare to dream.