Today we’d like to introduce you to Saniya Assembek.
Hi Saniya, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
At this moment, I’m pursuing an MFA degree in Computer Arts and practicing 3D character animation & motion graphics. I was born in Kazakhstan and initially pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. However, my career path took a significant turn for a very specific reason. During my senior year in college, I had a profound realization that my choices were heavily influenced by societal norms and expectations prevalent in my country. I felt constrained by the rigid standards of what was considered ‘right’ or ‘profitable’. I’m passionate about animation, and it was evident that the animation industry in Kazakhstan lacked the necessary institutions for growth. This realization led me to pursue education in NYC. I saw this as a golden opportunity to acquire the knowledge and experience I needed to contribute to the development of the animation field back in my country. My long-term vision is to play a pivotal role in elevating the animation industry in Kazakhstan. I want to use the skills I acquired during my education to showcase the beauty of our country and culture, just as animators do in other parts of the world. After completing the program, I’m committed to establishing a community of creative individuals. Through my journey, I aim to serve as an example that transcends gender and social status, demonstrating that anyone can follow their dreams and create a positive impact in their society.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been quite a transformation. I arrived in the United States only a year and a half ago, and during this relatively short period, I’ve undergone a significant change in my academic and career path. Adapting to a new environment and educational system while trying to excel in a field that was relatively unfamiliar to me was a considerable challenge. Learning to work with complex software, understanding the nuances of animation and motion graphics, and keeping up with the rapidly evolving technology in the field required perseverance and dedication.
Language barriers were another hurdle, as English is not my native language (we mostly speak in Kazakh and Russian). Effective communication, especially in a creative and technical field like computer arts, was vital, and I had to work hard to overcome this obstacle.
Financial constraints also played a role. Pursuing higher education in a foreign country can be financially demanding, and I had to navigate scholarship opportunities and part-time work to support my studies.
Additionally, obtaining the necessary visa was an incredibly stressful process. The complexities of paperwork, documentation, interviews, and meeting the visa requirements were daunting and, at times, overwhelming. That’s mainly bc of the high rejection rate in Kazakhstan.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My primary focus is on 3D character animation and motion graphics. I’ve honed my skills in creating dynamic and engaging animations that bring characters and visual narratives to life. What sets me apart in this field is not only my technical expertise but also my unique perspective and cultural background.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Things I like:
Diversity and Opportunities: I’ve met people from all over the world, which is exciting and has broadened my horizons.
Creative Hub: This aligns perfectly with my career aspirations in animation. It’s a place where art and technology intersect, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and artistic expression.
What I like least:
Expensive: Rent and living costs can be tough, especially for students like me.
Busy Lifestyle: It’s a fast-paced city, which can be both thrilling and overwhelming. Balancing my studies with our city’s hustle can be tricky.
Traffic and Transit: Getting around can be a hassle. Traffic and public transportation can be a bit of a headache at times.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sani.mation/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saniya-assembek/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/_LGBIvVWL_k?si=oytJbvKgz4FQLt_x
