Alexandra Gilbert : Theatre and Film graduate
Since leaving QMU in 2020 , Theatre and Film graduate Alexandra Gilbert has won and been shortlisted for various awards at international film festivals for her final project , the documentary Welcome to Chernobyl , which follows a tour guide working in Ukraine ’ s Chernobyl Exclusion Zone . We caught up with the freelance filmmaker to find out about her QMU experience and what she ’ s been up to since graduating .
Why did you choose to study at QMU , and what attracted you to the course ?
I knew I wanted to study in Edinburgh , and at the time , I was teetering between focusing on either theatre or film but couldn ’ t quite figure out what I was more drawn to . So , with this course focused on both subjects , and at a university situated not far from the city centre - the BA ( Hons ) Theatre and Film ticked all the boxes for me !
What did you enjoy most about your course ?
The wide range of modules available for us to choose from each semester .
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting ?
Film production and screenwriting ; both modules allowed you to be super creative and helped us gain and develop these vital skills for a career within the industry .
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course ?
Go for it ! If you , like I was , know that you want to work in the creative arts but still can ’ t quite decide which area you want to focus on - this is the course for you . QMU ’ s Theatre and Film degree truly allows you to try a bit of everything whilst focusing on what areas you want to specialise in at the same time .
What ’ s your ‘ top tip ’ for making the most of being a student ?
There ’ s no right way to ‘ do ’ uni life ; experience it how you want to experience it , BUT do use and abuse those student discounts while you can !! You ’ ll miss them when they ’ re gone !
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university ?
How to be more independent and also how to adapt to new and sometimes uncomfortable situations .
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation ?
I entered the short documentary I made for my dissertation into film festivals across the world and managed to bag quite a few wins . STV also interviewed me about my experience of filming my documentary in Chernobyl , and I now work as a freelance filmmaker alongside my best friend .
How did your lecturers support your learning ?
They were wonderful ! The lecturers at QMU are so supportive and warm . I found them very approachable , which made the whole university experience far smoother and more enjoyable .
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