Full Sail News & Culture

Download the Spring Scholarship Guide

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

Get the latest details on available Full Sail scholarships.

Your college education is one of the most important investments that you can make. To help you evaluate your financial options, be sure to check out the newly updated Full Sail University Spring Scholarship Guide for detailed information on possible funding opportunities.

The guide provides a list of scholarships that may be available to you, as well as the details and eligibility requirements applicable to each scholarship.*

After you’ve reviewed the guide, contact your Admissions Representative at 800.226.7625 or 407.679.6333. Your Rep can answer any questions you may have about tuition, housing, student life, the entertainment and media industry, and more.

*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.

ESPN Demonstrates EA SPORTS GameView at Full Sail

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

Desmond Howard exhibited the new virtual technology in the Full Sail University Sports Lab Powered by ESPN

Full Sail University, EA SPORTS, and ESPN's emerging technology team recently teamed together to demonstrate ESPN's newest virtual technology application, EA SPORTS GameView. This latest augmented reality application allows ESPN analysts to have total control of a play on a 70-inch touchscreen built into a tabletop. Full Sail faculty and students were on-hand to help develop the technology, and prepare the Full Sail University Sports Lab Powered by ESPN for the first demonstration of the application.

"Our goal at ESPN is always to serve our fans," said Anthony Bailey, Vice President, Emerging Technology. "This technology is another way to bring fans deeper into the game and allow them to understand decisions being made by players and coaches, as delivered by our world class talent who have played in the game."

During the presentation, analyst Desmond Howard demonstrated how the technology allows hosts to move 3D virtual players of their choice, run plays as they choose, zoom in, rotate the field, and telestrate all in real-time using a suite of tools at their fingertips.

"We have some progressive thinkers at both the Full Sail and ESPN," Howard said. "Everyone has been dedicated and committed to getting this done the right way. To see the teamwork that comes together to present something like this is very impressive for me. It's really an honor to be a part of something as groundbreaking and innovative as this."

The latest in a series of projects worked on together by ESPN and Full Sail, the EA Sports GameView project has also provided great opportunities for students working as part of the crew during the week-long production schedule.

"An event like this is very exciting for Full Sail because it allows our students, graduates, and faculty to exchange ideas, and it allows our students to get some real hands-on education," said Full Sail Vice President of Education Operations Erik Noteboom. "ESPN definitely brings that experience to the table."

EA SPORTS Game View will debut during ESPN's Bowl Championship Series coverage in late December and early January.

Full Sail Launches Mobile App

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

Mobile application keeps users connected to Full Sail University.

Full Sail's Mobile App - fsnet

Full Sail University is proud to announce the launch of the new Full Sail University mobile app. Currently available on Android and iOS, the mobile app allows users to get much of the FullSail.edu experience seamlessly translated for the iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Android phones and tablets.

With the Full Sail mobile app, users can stay connected with the school and find out about the latest news around campus, including guest speakers, special events, student showcases, and more. The app also features the latest news stories about Full Sail graduates and their careers in the entertainment industry, and a gallery featuring photos from events on and around campus. Users can also share stories, photos, and other content via Twitter and Facebook, and receive notifications about important upcoming events for current and potential students.

Get connected with Full Sail and download the mobile app today.

iPod/iPhone: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fsnet/id455087295?ls=1&mt=8

iPad: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fsnet-hd/id461101097?ls=1&mt=8

Android: https://market.android.com/details?id=com.purplerockscissors.fullsail.fsnet

A Look Back at Full Sail University Hall of Fame Week 2011

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

In addition to the induction of this year's Hall of Fame class, the week featured concerts, panels, presentations, and more.

Hall of Fame 2011 Induction Ceremony Intro

This year's Hall of Fame Week was a great success, as we celebrated the careers of six Full Sail graduates and honored the achievements of these select alumni who have excelled in their career field. In addition to the induction ceremony in Full Sail Live and the unveiling of the new Hall of Fame installations (a mixed media wall featuring video, audio clips, pictures, and industry credits showcasing highlights from throughout the inductees' careers), we also hosted a variety of events on campus, including concerts, panel discussions, guest speakers, and more. Hall of Fame Week 2011 may be over, but we'll always have the memories...and these links:

Day One kicked off the festivities with a bang, with a red carpet event leading into the induction ceremony at Full Sail Live, several discussion panels and guest speaker events featuring Hall of Fame inductees past and present, and a concert from singer/songwriter Marc Broussard to end the night.

Day Two kept the ball rolling, with more special events across campus – including an outdoor performance by electronic musician Jeremy Ellis, a conversation with Full Sail Film grad Chase Heavener about the making of his documentary, Tim Tebow: Everything in Between, and several Hall of Famers taking the time to talk to students about their careers in the entertainment industry.

One might think that things would start winding down on the final day of the celebration, but Day Three kept up with the days that preceded it, offering students more panels and discussions on the gaming industry, the future of the music business, reality television, live sound, brand marketing, studio mixing techniques, sound design, and more.

A select group of students also got to participate in some exclusive GPS events, getting facetime and personal interaction with some of the Hall of Fame inductees during three separate sessions.

Full Sail University Hall of Fame Week 2011

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

In addition to the induction of this year's Hall of Fame class, the week will feature concerts, panels, presentations, and more.

We're excited to announce the schedule for the 2011 Full Sail University Hall of Fame Week. This year we are proud to induct six graduates into our Hall of Fame, an on-campus exhibit honoring the achievements of select alumni who have excelled in their career field.

This year's inductees are:

Darren Lynn Bousman, a popular film director and writer
Laurie Brugger, senior rigger at Framestore, the largest visual effects and computer animation studio in Europe
Culley Bunker, the owner and lead visual effects artist at Skulley FX
Jameson Durall, design director at video game studio Volition, Inc.
David Farmer, a sound designer who has worked on award-winning films and video games
Sean Spuehler, an audio engineer who has worked on countless projects in the studio as well as on the road as Madonna's personal monitor engineer

This group marks the third round of inductees honored in the Hall of Fame since its 2009 opening, and to recognize their achievements, we will be throwing a three-day celebration from November 7-9 that will include numerous events, guest speakers, panel discussions, and more.

The week kicks off with the Induction Ceremony and the unveiling of the new Hall of Fame installations – a mixed media wall featuring video, audio clips, pictures, and industry credits showcasing highlights from throughout the careers of this year's inductees.

Check out the schedule for Hall of Fame Week below (times and locations subject to change).

Many events will be available for viewing on the Internet via Full Sail's Livestream page (bit.ly/HOFLive).

You can also get regular updates on all the week's activities on the Full Sail University blog and right on FullSail.edu, as well as via Full Sail's Facebook page and the @fullsail Twitter stream.

A mobile-friendly version of this schedule is available at halloffame.fullsail.edu.

Monday, November 7

9:00 a.m. – Hall of Fame Induction (Full Sail Live Venue - Ticketed Event*) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

11:30 a.m. – Unveiling of the new Hall of Fame (Entertainment Business Lobby - Ticketed Event*)

2:00 p.m. – Beyond 5.1: The Future of Sound for Picture, with David Farmer, 2010 Hall of Fame grad Marc Fishman, and 2009 Hall of Fame grad Gary Rizzo (Entertainment Business Auditorium) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

2:00 p.m. – Rigging and Special Effects, with Laurie Brugger, Culley Bunker, and Digital Arts & Design grad Brett Novak (FS3B-131)

2:30 p.m. – On Location: Film Production, with Darren Lynn Bousman, 2010 Hall of Fame grad Steve Cainas, actor J. LaRose, and 2009 Hall of Fame grad Steve Switaj (FS3B-113)

2:30 p.m. – The Motion Graphics World of Jayson Whitmore, 2009 Full Sail Hall of Fame inductee (FS3B-112)

4:00 p.m. – The Reality of Reality Television, with 2010 Hall of Fame grad Troy DeVolld (Entertainment Business Auditorium) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

4:00 p.m. – Artist Relationships and Touring, with Sean Spuehler and 2010 Hall of Fame grad Martin "Tike" Santos (FS3B-113)

4:00 p.m. – Microsoft Gaming Presentation, with 2009 Hall of Fame grad Cordy Rierson (FS3B-131)

8:00 p.m. – Hall of Fame concert featuring singer/songwriter Marc Broussard (Full Sail Live Venue - Ticketed Event*)

Tuesday, November 8

9:30 a.m. – Oscar Winning Re-Recording Mixer Gary Rizzo (Entertainment Business Auditorium)

10:00 a.m. – Saints Row: The Third Game Development panel discussion featuring Jameson Durall and Volition President Jim Boone (Full Sail Live Venue) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

10:00 a.m. – Visual Effects for Music, Video, and Film with Culley Bunker (FS3B - 131)

10:00 a.m. – The Business of Documentary Filmmaking, with Chase Heavener, Full Sail graduate (FS3B-113)

10:00 a.m. — "O.K., Ask Me Your Questions," with Tom Savini (Full Sail Live - Forsyth)

1:00 p.m. – Framestore: Europe's Largest Visual Effects Company with Laurie Brugger (Entertainment Business Auditorium) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

1:00 p.m. – A Conversation with GRAMMY®-Winning Engineer/2010 Hall of Fame grad Leslie Brathwaite (FS3B-113)

1:00 p.m. – The Internet's Impact on Film and Television, with Troy DeVolld (FS3B-131)

1:00 p.m. – Performance and Q&A with Jeremy Ellis, electronic musician (Walkway)

3:00 p.m. – Audio Production Advisory Panel (Full Sail Live - Forsyth)

Wednesday, November 9

9:30 a.m. – Troy DeVolld discusses his new book Reality TV: An Insider's Guide to Television's Hottest Market (Entertainment Business Auditorium) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

10:00 a.m. – My Career on Tour and in the Studio, with Sean Spuehler (FS3B-113)

10:00 a.m. – Music Business 3.0: Leave Your Record Label at the Door (FS3B-131)

1:00 p.m. – A Live Mix Demo in the Audio Temple with Leslie Brathwaite (Full Sail Live Venue) (This event will be viewable online via the Full Sail University Livestream page - bit.ly/HOFLive)

1:00 p.m. – Transmedia in the New Age of Branding (FS3B-131)

2:00 p.m. – The Role of a Monitor Engineer, with Martin "Tike" Santos (Full Sail Live - Forsyth)

2:00 p.m. – The Fusion of Sound Design and Re-Recording Mixing, with David Farmer and Marc Fishman (Entertainment Business Auditorium)

3:00 p.m. – Where the Gaming Industry is Headed, with Jameson Durall (FS3B-113)

*Information about Ticketed Events will be published soon.

Full Sail Hosts Orlando GiveCamp Weekend

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

National event has coders and designers build short-term web projects for non-profit organizations.

Volunteers donated their time to help develop websites for non-profit organizations.

Orlando technology professionals recently took the time to put their services towards a good cause at Full Sail University as a part of National GiveCamp Weekend.

While we're all familiar with the idea of donating and giving back to non-profit organizations and charities, GiveCamp puts a unique spin on the concept by allowing designers, developers, marketers, and web strategists to donate their time to provide solutions for these groups. Since its inception in 2007, the program has provided benefits to hundreds of charities, worth millions of dollars of developer and designer time in services.

The event's volunteers – including Full Sail faculty and students – spent three days on campus, working on a variety of projects for non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area, Florida Literacy Coalition, Homegrown Local Food Cooperative, Conrad Educational Foundation, and Children's Home Society of Florida.

The GiveCamp teams wrapped up their weekends with a showcase of all of the projects that they were able to complete during the event. To learn more about GiveCamp, visit givecamp.org.

Full Sail Students Enter the Wu-Tang with a Visit from Rapper Cappadonna

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

The Wu-Tang group member talks to students about his career in the music industry.

Cappadonna, DJ J-Saki, and manager Jimmy Kang speak to students at the BSU event.

There are few groups in hip hop who have had as big an impact as the Wu-Tang Clan. Since the Staten Island collective's 1993 debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), the group has launched the careers of some of rap's biggest stars, while their brand has expanded to include a successful clothing line, video games, books, television shows, movies, and more.

Full Sail University's Black Student Union recently hosted a visit from rapper/Wu-Tang group member Darryl Hill – best known by his stage name, Cappadonna. Joined by his DJ J-Saki and personal manager Jimmy Kang, the artist spoke to a classroom of students from multiple degree programs about his career in the music industry, the meteoric rise of Wu-Tang Clan, and his observations on maintaining longevity in a business that is constantly evolving.

Throughout his presentation, Cappadonna answered questions from students about the group dynamics of Wu-Tang Clan, his views on the current state of the music industry, and the details surrounding his solo career. Kang and J-Saki were also able to share their insight about the significant roles that managers, producers, and engineers play in aiding an artist on the road, in the studio, and in any other scenario as they navigate through the music industry.

'Day of the Dead' Workshop Teaches Art and Culture

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Students and staff create artwork for Mexico's national holiday Día de los Muertos.

Here's a glimpse of the type of art created in the Day of the Dead workshop.

It wouldn't be out of the ordinary to spot a (fake) skull or two around campus as Halloween creeps right around the corner. But Full Sail staff and faculty recently made their own contributions to the somewhat-spooky atmosphere during a workshop dedicated to Mexican national holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Course Director Grace Kurth recently held a workshop to teach participants about the tradition of the 3,000-year-old Aztec tradition. Celebrated on November 1-2, Day of the Dead honors the souls of the departed with ornate altars and decorated sugar skulls. The souls are "welcomed" in a festive manner to acknowledge all the contributions they made in the lives of their families and friends.

Students and faculty created the tiny sugar skulls, along with masks, wreathes weaved from marigold flowers (representing regeneration), skeleton sculptures, and more. Participants were also encouraged to create their own cardboard shrines to a lost loved one, to color and decorate little plaster calacas (or skulls), and to write tributes to those who influenced their lives. Kurth also brought traditional Mexican cookies, played Aztec music, and brought marigolds for participants to take home.

Content Rules with C.C. Chapman and Ann Handley

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

The two authors share their content and marketing concepts with students in an online Wimba session.

Chapman and Handley addressed many of the topics from their book 'Content Rules.'

Full Sail recently welcomed new media marketing experts C.C. Chapman and Ann Handley to speak to students about creating content to strengthen their online brands and market themselves in an online Wimba classroom session. Chapman and Handley are co-authors of the book Content Rules: How to Create Killer Blogs, Podcasts, Videos, Ebooks, and Webinars (and more).

As its lengthy title suggests, both authors have a lot to offer on the subject of creating content. Handley is the Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs, a rich and trusted resource that helps businesses market their products and services smarter and better, while Chapman is the founder of DigitalDads.com and has developed marketing strategies and campaigns for American Eagle Outfitters, HBO, Coca-Cola Company, Sony Electronics, and more. Students were able to ask questions and learn more about how creating bold stories, videos, and blog posts can be most effectively shared and used to gain customers, clients, and business.

"They both offered the kind of real world experience that our students always love hearing about – interesting clients and projects, lessons learned, and helpful advice for those just starting out," said Dan Gorgone, Internet Marketing Course Director. "Since students from all of our programs need to have a basic understanding of how to market themselves online, what C.C. and Ann have to offer is truly priceless."

Game Final Project Presentations

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Three student groups showcase their games in Full Sail Live.

'Airplane Dash' – featuring a cameo from Career Development's Industry Outreach Manager Rob Coble in the front row.

Three groups from student game studio The John Kilbane Experience presented the end results of months of designing, coding, hard work, problem-solving, and precision at the Game Project Final Presentations this month. The Full Sail Live Venue welcomed students, faculty, and family members to check out what these gaming students had to offer on the bay before their graduation from the degree program.

Have you ever dreamed what it would be like to be a stewardess and serve passengers on their flight? If so, Airplane Dash is the game for you. Players are faced with the usual obstacles (crowded aisles, picky passengers, and more) as they work to earn points and make the flight as pleasant as possible. And no, there are no snakes on this plane.

Looking for something a little more adventurous – yet still a bit comical? Revenge of the Fat Ninja has got you covered. Players take on the role of Tempura Wasabi, a rotund ninja set on reaching the shogun's temple and taking him down from his throne. Wasabi must race against four other enemy ninjas in a gameplay style that's similar to Mario-Kart, but with an Asian flair.

And finally, Blank is a 2.5D platformer that follows a polymorphic creature who utilizes absorbed animal abilities to navigate environmental puzzles and obstacles to progress through an abandoned lab. Each room of the lab features a new layout to navigate, and each section of rooms features a new power that must be utilized, either separate from the other powers or in combination with them.

The Game Project Final Project Presentations require Game Development students to come together as a team and pitch an idea for a complete game. One the idea gets approved, they team with Game Art and Recording Arts students to develop the project to its completion and present it before an audience of faculty, guests, and students.

3D Arts Demo Reel Presentations

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Students showcase their work before graduation.

A sample of Tasha Rosenbaum's demo reel.

Students in the Computer Animation and Game Art degree programs recently showcased their creative work during this month's 3D Arts Demo Reel Presentations.

Family, friends, faculty, students, and other visitors were able to check out the demo reels of students on the day before their graduation from Full Sail. And now you can, too. Check out some of the work from this month's presenters:

Arslan Naqvi (Animator)

John Aquino (Visual Effects Artist)

Tasha Rosenbaum (Shading and Lighting Artist)

Giovanni Benitez (Character Modeler)

Elizabeth Sicilia-Pi (Animator)

Digital Arts & Design Grad Showcase

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

DAD students present their demo reels before graduation.

A sample of Timothy Taylor's demo reel.

Students in Full Sail's Digital Arts & Design degree program recently showcased the end result of months of hard work at the Grad Showcase in the Entertainment Business Auditorium. An audience of family, friends, and faculty were able to check out an impressive collection of demo reels that included motion graphics, print designs, and more.

Check out some of the work from this month's showcase by clicking the links below:

Melanie Doulin

Timothy Taylor

Dulee Kim

Linda Lindhorst

Thomas Wynn & The Believers: Live at Full Sail Live

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Show Production students produce a show in the Full Sail Live Venue for their Final Project.

Student-made event poster for the concert at Full Sail Live.

Full Sail Show Production students recently put together a concert in the Full Sail Live Venue as part of the Show Production Final Concert Series. Orlando band Thomas Wynn & The Believers took the stage at this month's free event, delivering their fiery brand of blistering rock and southern soul. The group has shared the stage with national acts such as Gov't Mule, JJ Grey & Mofro, Medeski, Martin & Wood, and Drive-By Truckers, and has headlined over 100 shows this year alone.

The show also doubled as an animal food drive for animal rescue center R.A.I.N. (Rescuing Animals In Need). Concert-goers were given the opportunity to donate small food items for animals as they entered the venue.

As part of the Advanced Concert Media Design course, these monthly concerts are produced by students, with help from volunteers and with guidance from Full Sail faculty. Students are responsible for contacting the bands, doing all pre-production work involved with putting on a large format concert, transporting and setting up gear, and setting up and running the lighting, video, and live sound equipment.

Members of the student crew function in various production positions, including show marketing, production management, visual media, audio, video, and lighting technicians and engineers.

Students Showcase Films at GradFest

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Graduating students screen film projects at Full Sail Live before graduation.

'Dreamer' dives into the world of lucid dreaming.

Students graduating from Full Sail's Film degree program recently presented their Final Projects for an audience of family, friends, and faculty members during GradFest.

Held inside the Full Sail Live Venue, this month's GradFest featured three films: the 35mm film The Subject, and 16mm films POW and Dreamer.

In producing their Final Projects, students applied the knowledge that they gained throughout the Film Degree program every step of the way, from preproduction and casting to shooting, editing, and post-production. They’re not only a great way for students to really submerge themselves into the filmmaking process, but also work as great assets to their demo reels as they prepare to enter the industry after school.

3D Arts Advisory Board Panel

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Students get the opportunity to learn about careers from panel of five professionals.

The Advisory Board panel answer questions from students in Full Sail Live.

Full Sail University recently welcomed its 3D Arts Advisory Board to campus to speak to students about their careers and answer questions about working in the industry.

Held in the Full Sail Live Venue, the group panel included Carrier Barcroft, Human Resources Manager at id Software; Shane Cook, Compositor at Rising Sun Pictures; Freelance Director Nate Howe; OMGPOP Digital Artist Allan Norico; and Freelance Animation Professional Jack Thornton.

All five panelists began the presentation by talking about their paths in the industry, and by showcasing the work that they've done throughout their careers – including well-known projects such as films like Green Lantern and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt 1, commercials for Zune HD and Nike, and more. The group then also took questions from the audience of students, offering up their insight about working in the industry and giving advice about landing a job after graduating from Full Sail.

Full Sail's Got Talent!

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

More than 30 students showcase their skills before a panel of judges in Full Sail Live.

More than 30 Full Sail students performed at Full Sail's Got Talent!

It should come as no surprise that Full Sail students have a bit more going on outside of the classroom than your average student from another college or university. But anyone who needed a reminder about the extracurricular talents of our school got a wake-up call at this year's Full Sail's Got Talent show.

Held in the Full Sail Live Venue, Full Sail's Got Talent featured more than 30 students eager to display their skills as dancers, singers, musicians and poets before an audience of their fellow students. A panel of judges – Music History Associate Course Director Karlos Colon, Entertainment Business Associate Course Director Ana Reina, 102 Jamz DJ Young Smitchell, Natura Cafe owner Paula Phipps, and Full Sail Director of Academic Success Lisa Grau – were also on hand to offer up critiques and select the winners of the event.

Game Art student Nathaniel Rios (aka N'ERGi) took first place in the Talent category with a stage performance showcasing his precision popping and breakdancing moves. Singer/songwriter/Music Production student Ryan McKenzie scored first place in the Music category, winning a Natura Cafe prize package, a two-hour recording session at the Spot Studio, and interview on Rollins College radio. All performers received "swag bags" from Guitar Center, LA Fitness, 102 JAMZ, and ESPN.

"Full Sail as a whole is not necessarily a music college – it's more of a music production and technical college," said Colon. "But there are a lot of artists who come here to learn the technical side of things. There is a lot of talent here."

Show Production Students Light Up the Room with a Hippo

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Students in the Concert Media Design course got to work with the industry-standard Hippotizer Media Server.

Students test out different configurations in the HIPPO lab.

Show Production students in the Concert Media Design course recently got the chance to work with the Hippotizer Media Server during a classroom lab session. The Hippotizer – commonly referred to as "the Hippo" – has been used to elevate the show production of a wide range of live settings, including concerts, theatre, television, corporate events, and more.

Students were able to play, composite, and edit visual images in real time, a practice that's typically applied to LED video walls and projectors in live show environments. Throughout their lab, students were also shown how to wrap and warp the projected image onto curved surfaces, blend multiple projectors into one large image, and pixel map LED lighting fixtures.

"Full Sail is the first to teach media server programming with the Hippotizer," said Concert Media Design Lab Specialist Adam Stachow. "The lab environment we offer gives each student access to their own Hippotizer and allows them to experiment and produce with their own creativity."

Students take what they learn in the Concert Media Design course and apply it in their next – and final – course of the program, Advanced Concert Media Design, using what they've learned to design, program and execute their Final Project in the Full Sail Live Venue.

Childish Gambino In-Store at Park Ave CDs

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Actor/comedian Donald Glover brings his hip hop alter-ego to the stage; Full Sail Recording Arts students set up and record the performance.

Childish Gambino performed to a capacity crowd inside Park Ave CDs.

Donald Glover is a busy man. The actor/comedian has written for television shows The Daily Show and 30 Rock, stars in NBC's comedy series Community, and is currently touring the country under the guise of his hip hop alter-ego Childish Gambino. He recently stopped in Orlando to perform for a sold-out show at the Plaza Theatre – but not before doing an in-store appearance and performance at local record store Park Ave CDs.

Full Sail Recording Arts students ran sound for the event and recorded the performance, which drew a capacity-sized crowd. After his brief set, Gambino stayed to sign autographs and meet face-to-face with fans.

In-store performances are some of Park Ave CDs’ most popular events, and Full Sail students have been there to run sound for bands such like Frank Turner, Less Than Jake, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Little Dragon, and more. A few of the recorded shows have even seen a national release, including titles from Snow Patrol, Porcupine Tree, Jose Gonzalez, and Gaslight Anthem.

In The Mix with Recording Arts grad Jordan "DJ Swivel" Young

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Beyonce's full-time engineer returns to campus to talk to students about his career in the music business.

Event poster for Jordan "DJ Swivel" Young's visit.

Jordan "DJ Swivel" Young has had the type of career that most Full Sail Recording Arts students would take at the drop of a dime. He's worked with some of the top names in the music industry, had his name attached to huge radio songs, and is currently working directly with one of the biggest pop stars of today. And despite his immense schedule, the Recording Arts grad recently made time to visit his old school and share his insight with students.

In a presentation in the Full Sail Live Venue, Jordan spoke to students about his path after graduation and shared stories about his life in the recording studio. After graduating in 2005, Jordan landed a gig as assistant engineer to six-time GRAMMY award-winning producer/mixer Ken "Duro" Ifill, and eventually got his own big break engineering rapper Fabolous' fourth studio album, From Nothin' to Somethin'.

From there, Jordan has engineered for artists such as Jay-Z, Britney Spears, Ne-Yo, Whitney Houston, Rick Ross, and more. In 2010, Jordan also became Beyonce's full-time engineer, mixing her I AM World Tour DVD, which was certified double platinum, as well as recording her much-anticipated studio album 4.

Throughout his presentation, Jordan played tracks he's worked on, including hits like Jay-Z's "Empire State of Mind" and Fabolous' "Make Me Better," reflecting on the sessions that brought these songs to the world. He also shared insight on what it was like working with Beyonce, and offered up his process for working in the studio. At the end of the two-hour event, Jordan also took questions from students during an open Q&A session, and offered up tips for starting a career after graduation from Full Sail.

Going Viral with Burnie Burns

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

The creative force and owner behind web-based company Rooster Teeth speaks to Full Sail students in Full Sail Live.

Event poster for the Rooster Teeth event.

Machinima – a medium that relies on real-time 3D computer graphics rendering engines to create cinematic animated features – has become an artform all its own, with its own set of rules and guidelines and a fanbase that has embraced the unique blend of elements from gaming, computer animation, and filmmaking. And in the world of machinima, there are few names that can hold a candle to Burnie Burns.

Burns – also known to fans as the voice of character Leonard Church, from the comic science fiction video series Red vs. Blue – recently came to Full Sail University to speak to students about his career as the creative force and owner of web-based company Rooster Teeth. During his presentation at the Full Sail Live Venue, Burns spoke about his rise in the machinima community, and detailed how his Austin, Texas-based company rose to prominence with Red vs. Blue, and later continued to develop its name with series such as Immersion and Captain Dynamic.

Following his presentation, Burns also answered questions from students and gave his insight about generating and building revenue streams off creative ideas and concepts.

The Minds Behind Riot Games

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Full Sail students get an inside look at the gaming industry through the lens of booming game studio Riot Games.

Event poster for the Riot Games presentation.

Full Sail's Career Development Department recently gave students the opportunity to learn more about careers in the gaming industry during a visit from game studio Riot Games. Founded in 2006, Riot Games made its first dent in the gaming industry with the release of the stand-alone Dota game League of Legends.

During a presentation in the Entertainment Business Auditorium, Riot Senior Producer Steve Snow and Producer Travis George spoke to students about a variety of topics, including what their approach to game production is like, how placing a particular focus on community has benefited both Riot and their League of Legends title, and what it's like to work in the gaming industry. The Riot representatives also offered up advice to students about what employers look for when combing through resumes, and answered questions from students during an open Q&A session at the end of his lecture.

Rock 'N Roll!

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Hard Rock's Memorabilia Tour Bus stops at Full Sail University.

Jimi Hendrix's custom SG guitar was one of many items on the Hard Rock Memorabilia Tour Bus.

The music will live on forever – but it's also pretty cool to catch a glimpse of the clothing, studio gear, and miscellaneous memorabilia that was there at the time. To celebrate the company's 40th anniversary, Hard Rock has launched a cross-country Memorabilia Tour to showcase some of the top pieces selected from a priceless 73,000+ memorabilia collection.

Students were able to walk through the traveling exhibit and see a variety of iconic and historic memorabilia pieces, including handwritten John Lennon lyrics, Michael Jackson's "Beat It" jacket, Madonna's "Like A Virgin" dress, handwritten letters and notes from the rock royalty such as Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, U2 singer Bono, and George Harrison, and more. For those looking for something a little more current, the Hard Rock Tour Bus also featured items such as a dress worn by Katy Perry and a skateboard that belonged to current teen superstar Justin Bieber.

Hard Rock International's in-house rock historian, music and resident memorabilia expert Jeff Nolan was also on-hand to give students an oral history of Hard Rock and show off some cool tidbits of rock history. During his presentation in the Entertainment Business Auditorium, students were able to take a look at other notable items that Hard Rock houses in their locations around the world, including the phone booth from CBGB's, a high school yearbook photo of the Doors' Jim Morrison, and more. Students also learned about the free Hard Rock 40th Birthday Bash concert in downtown Orlando later that week, featuring performances by Everclear, Tonic, Collective Soul, DMC, and more.

Download the Fall Scholarship Guide

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Get the latest details on available Full Sail scholarships.

Your college education is one of the most important investments that you can make. To help you evaluate your financial options, be sure to check out the newly updated Full Sail University Fall Scholarship Guide for detailed information on possible funding opportunities.

The guide provides a list of scholarships that may be available to you, as well as the details and eligibility requirements applicable to each scholarship.*

After you’ve reviewed the guide, contact your Admissions Representative at 800.226.7625 or 407.679.6333. Your Rep can answer any questions you may have about tuition, housing, student life, the entertainment and media industry, and more.

*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.

Frank Turner: Live at Park Ave CDs

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST

Full Sail Recording Arts students capture the singer's in-store performance and celebrate the 100th recorded show at the Orlando independent record store.

Frank Turner: Live at Park Ave CDs

Orlando independent record shop Park Ave CDs recently welcomed English folk/punk singer-songwriter Frank Turner – in the midst of his latest North American tour – for an in-store performance and autograph signing. And Full Sail Recording Arts students were there to help run and record the show.

Park Ave CDs has long been the location of exclusive in-store performances from some of music's most buzzworthy bands, but there was a special air of excitement in the store as Turner ripped through his energetic acoustic set – the Frank Turner event marked the 100th Full Sail student recorded in-store performance. After his set, Turner stayed to sign posters, CDs, and records, and interact with the nearly 200 fans in attendance before his performance later that night at the Social in downtown Orlando.

The unique relationship between Full Sail and Park Ave CDs has given students the chance to work with nationally touring artists in a professional environment. Recordings from artists such as Snow Patrol, Gaslight Anthem, Porcupine Tree, and Manchester Orchestra have seen official release throughout record stores across the country.

"Going beyond the classroom and bringing the professional experience to life is an essential part of our curriculum," said Matt Gorney, Course Director for Music History. "This is not an average student experience and we are proud to work alongside Park Ave CDs and Frank Turner to create and celebrate the 100th recording."

Diving Into the World of Needs-Based Sales Techniques

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST

EBMS grad Floyd Devine speaks to students about his role as Bonnier Corporation's Scuba Lab Director.

In case it isn't obvious, EBMS grad Floyd Devine is really into scuba diving.

Students in the Entertainment Business Master of Science degree program's Product and Artist Management course recently were able to learn about need-based sales techniques during a visit from a graduate of their very own program. While Floyd Devine graduated from Full Sail as recently as April, he has found a way to combine his business sense with his passion for scuba diving.

While attending Full Sail, Floyd incorporated a media consulting business called Locian LLC, with the aim of promoting his personal digital media and eventually move towards publishing and distribution. He also acts as a contributor to Bonnier Publishing's Scuba Diving Magazine, and is the Director of Scuba Labs, a gear testing and rating team that is a known and trusted voice in the scuba diving community.

During his class presentation, Floyd spoke to students about how he was able to develop the concept of customer needs and product features as the starting point for a benefits based sales approach. The approach focuses on finding a customer's needs and pairing it with the product (or skills) that a person is trying to sell to demonstrate a direct, tangible benefit. While students at first were tasked with applying these techniques to a scuba-related scenario, Floyd then related the concept to the various businesses and job plans of the students. Students were also able to see how applying these practices to their resume and job interview skills can improve their results in reaching their goals within the entertainment industry.