In 2018, Graeme Tan Jie arrived at Sunway University with the Chancellor’s Scholarship, a financial aid that enabled him to realise his dream of pursuing his BA (Hons) in Digital Film Production in the School of Arts. He fondly recalls the start of his Sunway journey on orientation day, where he met his coursemates at the nearby chicken rice shop. As young and fresh additions to Sunway, their friendship sparked immediately.

Graeme describes the BA (Hons) in Digital Film Production course as a one-stop program to experience filmmaking. Throughout his 3-year degree, Graeme had hands-on experience with all aspects of filmmaking – from ideation to production and post-production editing. This equipped him with the necessary skill set to enter the working world, building his confidence to be placed into any role and thrive. The degree also helped him to understand the industry better, paving his career journey as he developed a particular interest in the behind-the-scenes aspect of video production. Graeme recalls that he was usually the producer of any project due to his intrigue in the “making it happen” elements of the filmmaking process. 

Sunway University's lecturers and students left a lasting impression on Graeme. He was impacted most by lecturer and programme leader Mr Azmyl Yusof, who taught him how to think critically and embrace his individuality in every project. Mr Azmyl did not hesitate to collaborate with his students to make videos. Graeme recalls the opportunity he received to produce Mr Azmyl’s personal music video project, Lori Hantu, which allowed him to be creative and sharpen his directing and editing skills.

Graeme remembers Sunway University as a place that fostered meaningful friendships. He developed a close relationship with his coursemates that was meaningful and long-lasting, as they continued to keep in touch after graduation. “Yes, I do keep in touch with them,” Graeme comments, “especially the guys who have been through thick and thin together with me.” He is incredibly grateful to his friends Yoong, Nabil, Ben, and Livi - “I love you guys; thanks for fetching me to campus and back home all the time!”

As a scholarship student, Graeme had an eventful student experience as a Student Ambassador. During his term, he served as the Vice Director of the Publicity & Engagement department, where he was in charge of creating digital assets to promote the Sunway Student Ambassadors (SSA). Furthermore, the Student Ambassadors experienced a 3-week exchange programme at Lancaster University. The trip was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Graeme considered it an unforgettable experience when he finally went years later.

Upon finishing his degree, Graeme interned at the Malaysian creative and social media agency Blankslate. Eventually, his boss offered him a full-time position as Brand Manager. Now, Graeme’s role is to run clients' social media accounts and help boost the brand’s online presence. He has worked with notable brands like Estee Lauder, GRAB, TGV, Somersby, and Canon. However, a significant project was when he could give back to his alma mater by working with Sunway College. “I was privileged enough to service Sunway Education Group during my time in Blankslate,” he reflects on running the social media accounts for Sunway College.

Apart from his job, Graeme uses the skills he has learned to give back to the community by helping multiple non-profit organisations share their stories through photography and videography. He works closely with Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman to highlight their scholarships and works with MY READERS to create social media collaterals to promote education for all.

“My journey in Sunway helped shape who I am today, both in terms of mindset and what I do,” Graeme concludes. His determination to get the whole varsity experience, accompanied by Sunway’s holistic learning environment, opened up many opportunities for personal and professional growth. In passing on advice to the next generation of students, he iterates that giving back and remembering what contributes to your accomplishments is essential. “Always remember the hands that fed you. Thank you, Sunway!”