Testimonials

• Student Testimonials
• International Student Testimonials
• Corporate & Non-Profit Thank You's

Student Testimonials

"Columbia Academy was the perfect start to my career as a Videographer. The 'hands on' approach really gets you motivated to start shooting movies from day one. Working with fellow students teaches the importance of teamwork in the Film and TV Business and this has definitely been a help to my career now. Since graduating from Columbia Academy, I have found lots of freelance work as a Camera Operator, Editor, Production Assistant, Audio/Visual Tech and have also launched my own company, Paddycake Productions.

Thanks for the Excellent Lessons!

Patrick King
Video & Film Production grad

"I wish to express my gratitude to the school that not only gave me the tools and knowledge of my trade but that also taught me to endure, to have pride in my work, and to strive for success."

Frederic-Pierre Picard
Recording & Sound Design grad

"I'm currently working as an editor for APTN's (Aboriginal Peoples Television Network) First Talk and The Creative Native as well as doing camera work for ATV Productions on shows such as Drivers Seat and Canadian Rally Championship. Columbia Academy taught me the importance of communication. It has also helped me in the technical aspects of shooting and lighting. Thanks, Columbia, for helping me get my start."

Tyler McLeod
Video & Film Production grad

"As a graduate of Columbia Academy, I am proud to say I have successfully discovered a career in audio post-production. In addition to the usual cataloging and cutting of SFX, I have since worked as Assistant Music Editor on such episodic television series as Poltergeist and The Outer Limits.

In short, Columbia Academy has provided me with a fuller understanding of both the technology as well as the skills, without which I could not have achieved what I have today.

Columbia Academy + Motivation = Success. Thanks, C.A."

Damian McLaughlin
Recording & Sound Design grad

"When I started the Video Production program at Columbia Academy I did not know anything about video, in fact I did not even know how to log into a computer. Ten months later I was completely prepared to work in the video production. Great instructors, fun atmosphere and an excellent program that not only teaches all necessary technical skills and knowledge, but also enhances creativity, teamwork attitude and ethics.

Through Columbia, I met Mr. Rob Bradbury, president of Pacific Vocational College, where I have worked since graduation, producing training and educational videos. It is the best job I ever had. Thank you Columbia Academy, I enjoyed every minute spent there."

Pavel Novy
Video & Film Production grad

"I graduated from your recording program in 1987, and consider myself a success story. You can check out: myspace.com/cjeirikssonmusic to find out some of my history. I have recorded many records by bands like: Incubus, Hoobastank, LIVE, Jack's Mannequin, Alien Ant Farm, Something Corporate, and many more.

I continue to work in the Music Industry as a Producer, Engineer and Mixer. I am currently finishing up recording and mixing a new Hanson album at their studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as well as producing/developing several new up and coming bands. Thanks and I wish the school continued success!"

C.J. Eiriksson
Recording & Sound Design grad

"I always dreamed of owning my own production company. Columbia Academy equipped me with essential skills in recording and film/video production that have kept me to this day. The hands-on training is their greatest asset, as the student isn't forced to sit through hours of boring classroom lectures, rather they learn by actually doing. For me, being able to complete both a recording and video program under one roof was the first step to my dream coming true. If you can dream it, you can do it.

(Ed. note: Ryan now owns his own production company EARMARK Creative.)

Ryan Skeete
Dual Recording & Video program grad

"Just a quick note to thank you for my hands on experience I received at Columbia Academy. Because of this I am now in a position I could have only dreamed of. Needless to say it didn't come overnight or without a lot hard work. I am proud to say I now work as on on-air anchor, reporter and producer at KNBN Channel 10, an NBC affiliate in South Dakota. So thanks again for all your help and I hope your students currently attending will remember to keep trying and don't give up because if I can do it, so can they."

Tara Brown
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"What else can be said, really? Without the BPA program at CA, I would not have the skills necessary to hold down a spot in this thing we call the radio business. The hands-on training from day one gave me the skills, resources, and the confidence I needed. No two days are the same, and the program also allows you to work (and network..... I'm living proof of networking) closely with others on a daily basis."

(Ed. note: Marcus is an announcer at Peace FM in Chetwynd. He also does color commentary for the Dawson City Junior Canucks.)

Marcus Fitzgerald
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"I was a Columbia grad six years ago and loved the program and have told several future broadcasters about it here in Saskatchewan. I just wanted to write in and say how great I thought the program was at Columbia. The 10-month program that I went through trained me in every aspect of the radio industry, and it turned out great results.

I've currently been at 800 CHAB/Country 100FM for the past six years, and my training helped me get to where I am today. This coming Western Hockey League season will mark my seventh year on the Moose Jaw Warriors broadcast, and sixth as the color commentator. This summer is my fourth year as the play-by-play voice of the Moose Jaw Miller Express of the Western Major Baseball League.

Your detailed program, which covers production and copy, has led to more success for me. I'm currently the Production Director for our two stations, and the head producer for three more. My department is responsible for six radio stations productions, and the skills I developed at Columbia led to that success. One of the best talents however I learned at Columbia was one that goes unnoticed... time Management. As I've told you I'm responsible for a lot of sports reporting as well as a ton of production, and the teachers I had at Columbia always preached deadlines and time management, and that helped develop me into the announcer/producer that I am today."

James Gallo
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"Eighteen months ago I moved across the hall to New Rock 94X (Prince George, BC) and took over the afternoon drive slot and Imaging Director duties. WELL...now I've just been promoted again...this time to the 94X morning show, and assistant program director. My goal when I graduated from Columbia Academy was to program a station someday, and just under 4 years later, here I am!! Couldn't have done it without Columbia Academy and the staff."

(Ed. Note: Brad Bregani is now the Program Director & Morning Show Co-Host at 94X)

Brad Bregani
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"My ten months at Columbia Academy were phenomenal. Columbia provided me with an authentic radio experience from day one. I got the opportunity to host a music show, read news, sports, and traffic and learn to produce and create commercials. My time at Columbia prepared me brilliantly for my first job in the radio business. The staff are honest, hard working and extremely encouraging. They gave me honest, sincere feedback, which helped me to improve my craft. No day felt the same. Every day I learned something new about myself and about the industry. I would recommend Columbia Academy to ANYBODY who has an interest in radio because when you combine an outstanding staff with the course content and building location, you really cannot go wrong. I owe a ton of my early success in this business to Columbia Academy and can't begin to thank them enough for helping me achieve my radio goals."

(Ed. note: Dan is an announcer at Peace FM in Chetwynd. He also does play-by-play commentary for the Dawson City Junior Canucks.)

Dan O'Connor
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"Things up here are going well. I am getting plenty of time in production and the most live time on air in the station. Hell, I've even done a couple of 'on locations' for the local Tim Hortons that went over really well. I never could have imagined how much time and effort goes into a new station. To say the least, I have accelerated my learning curve here. I would also like to thank you and every other person at CA for everything you have done for me. I would not be living the dream without the help."

(Ed. note: Jay is now a morning show co-host at The Fox in Peace River, Alberta.)

Jay Johanneson
Broadcast Performing Arts Grad

Natalee Taylor is the midday host at 91.7 The Bounce in Edmonton, AB. "Guess what? I love it here! I thought I'd miss the mountains and Starbucks, but it's a refreshing change. Thanks to Columbia Academy for helping me get my start!"

Natalee Taylor
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"Columbia Academy has led me on an extremely interesting path in life. Following graduation I became an announcer for CHQB in Powell River. After about a year and a half, I joined Celebrity Cruise Lines as a DJ/Emcee. I traveled to almost 60 countries and have since relocated to New York. The opportunities are endless here. I just finished a contract with ESPN as an interviewer. The network had a few road teams travel the U.S. to various sports events to interview sports fans for upcoming TV spots for ESPN's major ad campaign of 2004 called Season Of The Fan. The job even included an appearance on Good Morning America. Once again thank you to Columbia Academy for giving me the capabilities to work these dream jobs."

Shaun Tomko
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

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International Student Testimonials

"The reason I chose to study here was I heard a good reputation from someone who is working as a newsperson at a radio station in Japan. People here are friendly, open-minded and willing to help. Im happy I decided to study at Columbia Academy."

Kumiko sawada, Japan
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"All of the Instructors are so organized, hospitable, friendly, and know how to lead the student in the right path. So, for anyone who dies for sound, this is the right place to learn and youll get a wonderful experience that you will never forget."

So-Young Kim, South Korea
Recording & Sound Design grad

"I always had the feeling - how would I be able to cope with the Canadian students whose first language is English? But at Columbia Academy, the whole process of learning was so friendly and easy that I passed my 10 months as if it was only a few days. Vancouver is the best place to be since it is multi-cultural and so many ethnic groups here you will end up being a part of a global family."

Aziz Dhamani, Bangladesh
Video & Film Production grad

"I enjoyed myself because of its different way of teaching and nice, friendly instructors. You dont just sit on a chair and listen and write what the teachers say everyday; its more hands-on. I think I made the right decision to attend Columbia Academy."

Yoh Kaneko, Japan
Recording & Sound Design grad

"I came to Columbia Academy from doing a Masters degree in Film and Television in England. Nothing prepared me for reality at Columbia. It was more than I expected..... for me it WAS the reality of learning all the basics which I had always overlooked or shied away from. At Columbia, even if you hated it... you still had to go through camera, editing, lighting, technicals (which, sorry, I still hate), floor directing, producing, etc. At the end of the day you always found what you are good at, you find your niche... or even if it is simply I'll never do that again (technical directing for me). But even when that happens, at least you have an overview of what its about which will stand you in good stead in the real world, and, most importantly, you make good friends who are good at what they do which you can always count on to produce brilliant, not so brilliant and even down right ordinary shows, but hey... they are always fun to do. Who are always there for you to email and say ... hey, I have this job (in the real world) remind me how to do... (whatever it is you've forgotten how to do).

I am back home in Nigeria, directing commercials, producing and directing stage plays and hopefully soon... directing dramas for TV series. And yes, I always remember to K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid). It has become a mantra here!!!!"

Awoba-Bob Manuel Wallace
Video & Film Production grad

"I learned many things about other cultures, including their music and rhythms and I contributed also, by showing my culture and music. And Columbia Academy is in Vancouver, one of the most beautiful cities of Canada, so you can enjoy that too."

Luis Fernando Henao, Colombia
Recording & Sound Design grad

"I was worried, even though I had studied English. However, my classmates and teachers helped me a lot. Im really happy now. If you are worried about English or something else, it doesnt matter. You just come and try it!"

Hideaki Soma, Japan
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"Columbia Academy provided me the necessary knowledge and experience to do what I always wanted to do  work in the video/film industry. I now have my own production company, Forge of Vulcan Productions."

Volkan Gurcu, Turkey
Video & Film Production grad

"I came from Mexico with a dream - to be a famous film director. Happily I can say I'm on my way. I haven't stopped working. I just got hired as an editor and segment producer. If you have a dream, go for it and don't let anything stop you."

A recent update from Rafael, "I work for Sky, which is a pay television system owned by Televisa, the largest media company in the Spanish-speaking world. I do five programs live every day on the sports channel as an Assistant Director and also roll as Director on Saturday or whenever it's needed.

I also work for the Latin America area as Producer for EWTN, a Catholic channel based in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, I just finished a 45 mnute special which will be televised across the Americas.

The training I received at Columbia Academy and then on my Internship with Shaw TV was just great. I am still applying the knowledge I learned from you guys."

Rafael Gamboa, Mexico
Video & Film Production grad

"I just want to let you know that I am doing very well in the industry where I really wanted to work from the bottom of my heart. Ive never forgotten the kindness that you guys did for me. Now, I work for GONZO K.K., a Japanese animation studio based in Tokyo."

Takashi Yoshizawa, Japan
Video & Film Production grad

"My experience at Columbia Academy was not only about broadcasting; I also obtained an international mind in the multi-cultural environment of Vancouver. It challenged me. So now I know that sometimes I can do better than people's expectation of me!!!"

Barq Honam, South Korea
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"I learned a lot from you when I was there at school, and I can honestly say there are still many things I use and apply today at my job. Right now Im working as a grip/production assistant for a production company in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania."

Tony Jenks, USA
Video & Film Production grad

"Because of the training I learned at Columbia Academy, I am now directing and editing Christian Music Videos in Quezon City, Philippines for the Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ). I am also studying to become a minister in the College of Evangelical Ministry at New Era University in the Philippines."

Marlon Guinto, The Phillipines
Video & Film Production grad

"I had always wanted to be an on-air personality at an important radio station and I knew training was essential - that is why I chose Columbia Academy.

All the hands-on work was amazing! No other school offers the amount of hands-on practice that Columbia Academy does. The setting was like a real radio station.

Thanks to my instructors, I got the courage to apply for my dream job at a major radio station in Vancouver, The Beat 94.5 FM. And I got it! I am enjoying what I do and still learning tons, all of which began with my time at Columbia Academy."

(Ed. Note: Vanessa Tomasino is now the Host of World Beats, a weekly television show on City TV, Vancouver.)

Vanesa Tomasino, El Salvador
Broadcast Performing Arts grad

"I learned valuable video production skills and improved my English through daily conversation with native English speakers. At Columbia Academy, there is no difference between Canadian and international students. It was a fun full-throttle 10 months!"

Chieko Wada, Japan
Video & Film Production grad

"Music is much more than my hobby. It is my life and career. I realize that the ability to succeed in the music business nowadays requires both musical skills as well as practical knowledge of music technology. With the excellent curriculum in the Audio Recording/Sound Design program, I am very confident that it can help me fulfill my career goals."

Terry Yau, Hong Kong
Recording & Sound Design grad

"Being an ESL student in a foreign country is not easy. However, being a student at Columbia Academy was one of the most wonderful experiences in my life. It gave me the security to interact with Native speakers of the English language in a safe and caring environment while being treated at the same professional level. I feel more confident about my English skills as well as my role in the professional field. Columbia Academy was, undoubtedly, a win-win experience."

Susana Garcia-Cantu, Mexico
Video & Film Production grad

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Corporate & Non-Profit Thank You's

"Thank you Columbia Academy for providing Taylor Fox as Sound Recorder for the HD filming of our promotional trailer of Red Rock Diner& the sound is great and the pictures are amazing. We move into post production with great confidence."

Rocket Norton
Executive Producer

"I would like to thank you for the quality work you did on our promotional video and TV commercial for the M Channel."

Marc Rivard, Director of Marketing
St. John's International School

"Thank you for all your help in coordinating volunteers for the Air Canada Championship. The mic holders made a great impression with the audio department. The audio operators were thrilled with them and asked me if we have the budget to travel them to other events."

Devin Mandeville, Production Manager
TSN and CTV

"The training series was launched at our national conference in March and was received amazingly well by our nationwide franchise partners. Not only were all of our Franchise Partners completely overwhelmed by the quality and professionalism of the videos, but our Leadership team and staff here at our Head Office were also blown-away!!! Thank you for passing Jonathan Galbraith onto us  he is a first class professional who will without doubt go far in the industry!!"

Alex Read, Franchise Support Manager
1-800-GOT-JUNK

"A great big thank you for helping out with our Carolyn Dawn Johnson special! Thank you for allowing us to tape some TV magic at your school!"

Keri Sherik, Associate Producer
CMT Canada

"Thank you for sending us quality students when we ask for your help. You truly are a lifesaver and I have to let you know that we truly appreciate it."

Christina Amouzou
Amouzou Productions

"The North Shore Search and Rescue video was very well received. The executive was very impressed with the production and was most appreciative of all your efforts."

Wally Kercham
North Shore Search and Rescue

"The students were AWESOME, professional and very pleasant. I hope they had fun and I look forward to working with your group again next year! Cheers and please thank the students for me."

Joe Papa, Show Director
The She Show, Canwest Shows

"I just wanted to thank the Digital Video Production team at Columbia Academy for its support of Variety - The Children's Charity over the past few years. As you know DVP produced for Variety, at the cost of the videotapes, a Holiday Season message, a record of our annual Pic Nic in the Park event and documentation of the Cavalcade of Stars, a talent show and fund-raiser for Variety. These were all needed productions that Variety was able to undertake because of the partnership with DVP and the participation of the students in the program. On all occasions we have found DVP staff and students to be professional, reliable and easy to work with. We were very pleased with the quality of the productions. We look forward to partnering with DVP on future project and would not hesitate to recommend the services of your students."

Giovanni Festa, Director of Special Events
Variety, The Children's Charity

"I would like to personally thank you and all the talented students at the Columbia Academy for the fine videos you produced for the Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra's 75th Anniversary Gala concert. The videos were a highlight of the show and served to keep our audience engaged in what turned out to be 3 1/2 hour concert! Your videos added a very special dimension to our concert. Thank you!!"

Roger Cole, Music Director
Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra

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