Student Experience: Ira Thomas

“Being able to pursue my dreams and passions with other people that had that same feeling was a great experience. It also helped that I had great professors that saw my efforts and helped me reach my goals and keep challenging and pushing me beyond my limits.

“My advice to students taking classes in the program would be to find out and know exactly what you want to do in the industry from the start. Meandering through school is a waste of time and money if you're not focused fully on what it is you want to do. You'll end up unhappy with anything you create if you do that.

“And always set goals for yourself to keep track of the progress you're making and don't get discouraged if you feel like you're only making a little progress because whether it's two steps or five, progress is progress. And finally, be passionate about whatever it is you do. Showing how passionate you are about your career goes a long way with how people remember you and how much of an impression you make on new acquaintances in the future.“


Read More

Thomas Post

Thomas Post

Founder and Owner Postman Productions
“I love the hands-on aspect of my education as compared to what my friends who went to four-year universities experienced. At North Lake, there was always lab time and equipment available when I needed it, and the one-on-one attention from instructors was amazing.”
Video Technology
Picture of Sri Guru Purini

Sri Guru Keerthi Purini

Junior Designer Belo Interactive
“This program helped me build a strong foundation. The thorough curriculum, well-thought-out assignments and hands-on training offered by the faculty have given me all the experience I needed to step into the professional world with confidence.”
Digital Art and Design
Rodney Willis

Rodney E. Willis

Senior Interior Design Associate, Ike Isenhour Inc.
“The professors in the program took an interest in my success and guided me towards accomplishing my goals. The relatively small classes offered an opportunity for one-on-one interaction, which was a positive factor for me.”
Interior Design
Lucas Martell

Lucas Martell

Adjunct Instructor, Mountain View
“When I attended Mountain View 12 years ago, I was encouraged, motivated, and inspired by my instructors and mentors. As a student, I learned a lot from the dedication of the instructors; their enthusiasm about the subjects they taught inspired me to continue my pursuit of higher education.”
Art
Ira Thomas
Ira Thomas
CGI Artist

Digital Art and Design
School of Creative Arts, Entertainment and Design
Updated July 28, 2026