Anang Prakasa: "I've always wanted to be a director!"

I studied a Master in Communication, focusing on Film and Video. I chose Film and Video because I have always wanted to be a director. During my undergraduate studies in communication I developed a passion for directing films, documentaries and music videos. Today I work at Metro TV as a TV Program Director which provides many opportunities to explore video production at the same time as program directing.

During my study in Australia, I learnt both theoretical and technical skills that support me in my career today. I studied script writing, budgeting, directing and video editing. My profession requires a strong conceptual understanding of video production from writing proposal and script, shooting procedure to editing process, and also challenges me to bring the concept such as news bulletin rundown or variety show script made by producers to reality through the TV programs I direct.

Working with fifteen crews or more in the production of TV programs requires both discipline and patience. Working to tight schedules during my study prepared me to deal with a high pressure environment and tight deadlines. I have to be cooperative with crew members without compromising on the standard I aim to achieve in the production of a TV program. Interacting with classmates and lecturers from different cultures improved my interpersonal skills. This is important when working with people from different backgrounds, and I am more professional and approachable. Good interpersonal skills are extremely important in my working environment which can become tense during live show productions.