JACINTA ROCHECOUSTE

What inspired you to enter into the career you’re in?
I fell in love with animated film as a child, which I’m sure is the common tale for anyone who’s taken this path. I was particularly fond of those old animated classics with Gene Kelly; I was a dancer through my childhood, which sheds a little light on my love and interest for that era, and Mr Kelly, plus I was crazy about drawing. After high school I undertook studies in both visual and fine art, which provided an introductory to the digital side of things – this was thoroughly encouraged by someone I knew working in the industry.

So, looking back on all of that, I think my love for film, movement, and art sort of all combined, and, along with the guidance of others, lead to my career in animation and motion design.

What are your fondest memories of your time at SAE?
Those final days of a Trimester- you’re stressed; everyone’s stressed. Your submission deadlines are approaching; everyone’s submission deadlines are approaching. You’re tired and nervous, but you’re not alone; everyone’s staying back late, you’re all ordering dinner together, sharing music, laughs, projects and whatever plethora of problems that are arising.

There’s a real camaraderie in those moments, a purity in everyone supporting each other without a need to compete. And although there are many moments of camaraderie in the workplace, it isn’t quite like those wild west moments during your studies.

Are you able to shed some light on how studying at SAE lead you to where you are now?
SAE provided structure in my learning. Coming into this fresh space, I didn’t have a clear view of what area I wanted to specialise in, let alone what areas there were to specialise in. It was through seeking guidance from lecturers – who were to learn of my strengths and weaknesses – that I discovered what trajectory I wanted to be on.

During my time at SAE, I went through endless moments of self-discovery. I learned how to refine my discipline and accountability, to take direction and take lead with others and myself, to communicate, through written mediums, one on one and to an audience, and to ready myself for the industry with technical skills and a suitable folio.

The most valuable thing I take away from my experience at SAE is learning the importance of resourcefulness. This allowed me to take charge of my own education, not only at SAE, but also now, and in the years to come; education doesn’t stop when you’re finished at uni.

What are your career highlights?
I think I would have to start with my time at Viskatoons in Melbourne. Having the opportunity to be apart of the animation team for Season 2 of Jar Dwellers SOS (aired on Channel 11), was a dream come true. I did not anticipate the experience of seeing my name credited on TV, and on IMDB, so soon in my career.

This opportunity was made possible by the lucky-last lecturer to assist in my SAE studies – Mark Sheard – who was also the Animation Director at Viskatoons. I will always be grateful for such a fun start to what I hope is a long and fruitful career.

Steadily dabbling in creative freelancing for quite a few years now has definitely earned a spot on my highlights list. Learning that you have the power to earn your own money and be your own boss is a priceless lesson. All of my freelance work has been built off the back of the skills and self-development obtained during my studies at SAE. My most notable client work to date is with Formula 1, and I hope to continue to branch out over the coming years.

I’ll end on my current endeavour with Channel 9, in Sydney, where I work as a Broadcast/Motion Designer, specifically designing for the News and The Today Show. I am thoroughly enjoying the learnings of the free-to-air world, within a great team, where there is plenty of room for upskilling and further growth.

Overall, having the opportunity to move interstate for work has really opened up a whole new world for me. I am excited to see where my skill set will take me next.

What projects are you working on at the moment?
At the moment I’ve been taking interest in film festivals and animation competitions, such as LoopdeLoop (currently working on a submission). Since work and freelance are keeping me quite busy, I find myself using the free moments in between to just simply explore my creativity without any outside influence dictating too much. So far, this has been super beneficial for my own well-being and growth post uni, and has resulted in the enhancement of my structured work.

What advice would you give to students aspiring to become successful in their field?
Continuously create your content; remember you are what you do. A creative is someone who creates… so create! Be mindful to prevent seeing any of this process as a chore, because that’s an easy trap to fall into. Really have fun with your work, and don’t rush for the sake of getting to the finish line of your creative journey, as there isn’t one; it’s a lifelong process.

Most importantly though, be sure to invest in your mind and be sure to make it a priority. Push your boundaries and expand yourself – read books, ask lots of questions, continuously seek the opportunities to learn regardless of topic, and cultivate your ability to be resourceful… resourcefulness will not only ensure you get the most out of your studies, or career, but your life.