The Journey That Built Me: My Mediazone Story

When I first heard about Mediazone in January 2022, I was at a crossroads in my academic journey. As a Communication and Multimedia student, I was passionate about creativity but unsure how to channel it. One day, I overheard my classmate Romy talking about Mediazone and describing it as an incredible opportunity to explore videography. Encouraged by her words, I decided to take the leap and apply. Looking back now, that decision was the turning point that shaped not just my career but also my confidence. 

My first assignment as a Studio Assistant in training was scouting a filming location with John Ioannou, the Head of Mediazone. I naively thought my communication skills alone would suffice, but as John explained the technical aspects of framing, lighting, and shot composition, I realized how much I had to learn. It was an eye-opening moment that pushed me to embrace the challenges ahead. From then on, every task became a steppingstone.  

I worked hard to absorb the technical aspects of filmmaking, from operating studio equipment to editing footage. The structured training sessions at Mediazone were transformative, giving me not just technical skills but also the confidence to step out of my comfort zone. 

My first big project came in December 2023, I was entrusted with creating the highlights for the Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society event highlights video. It was my first independent project, and I was both excited and terrified to say the least. Despite the obstacles I faced along the way, the support and encouragement from my colleagues made all the difference. With their guidance and helpful advice, I tackled the project head-on. Those two weeks were a whirlwind of learning, experimenting, and troubleshooting. I vividly remember sending draft after draft, ten in total, to Kyri, our Facilities & Operations Coordinator | Production Support. While none of them were perfect, each iteration brought me closer to understanding Adobe Premiere. 

The process taught me more than any class ever could. It was not about the technical skills; it was about perseverance, adaptability, and the value of constructive feedback. 

Behind the scenes, the next challenge came when I was tasked with producing a ‘behind-the-scenes video for a series we were shooting. Armed with my camera, I was eager to capture every detail, until I realized how tricky it was to document a live set. I quickly became “that annoying guy” on location, asking the crew to reset cameras or turn off lights left on by mistake. At one point, I nearly destroyed a prop plant trying to capture an artistic shot through its leaves. 

Despite my initial struggles, I embraced the chaos and found my rhythm. When it came time to edit, inspiration struck. I decided to experiment with the pacing and narrative structure, creating a final cut that felt fresh and engaging. I will never forget John’s reaction when he reviewed it. He simply said, “It’s good.” For someone as detail oriented as John, that one comment was worth more than a standing ovation. 

A transformative experience is the best way to describe my time at Mediazone, which has been both rigorous and rewarding. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without Mediazone’s ‘heavy training — or as I like to call it, ‘Mediazone’s boot camp. From mastering equipment and understanding film theory to shooting and editing on the fly, the training has been both comprehensive and intense. But what stands out most is the personal growth I have experienced. 

I started as a lost and uncertain student, intimidated by the technical aspects and the complexity of filmmaking. Now, I can confidently direct a project, approach people with ease, and trust my instincts to deliver quality work. 

The Mediazone community has been another cornerstone of my journey. Beyond the technical and personal growth, what I treasure most about my time at Mediazone are the connections I have made. The camaraderie among the Studio Assistants is something I deeply value. Whether we are brainstorming ideas, troubleshooting equipment, or simply sharing a laugh after a long day, the friendships I have built here have made this journey unforgettable. Our office is not just a workspace, it is a community. The connections we have built extend beyond office hours, creating a bond that feels genuine and lasting. These little moments remind me that Mediazone is not just about work; it is about creating an environment where everyone feels supported and can grow together. 

Today, as a full-fledged Studio Assistant, I can confidently say I have come a long way from that blank stare during my first assignment. The journey has not been easy, but every challenge has shaped me into the person I am today. Mediazone has not only equipped me with practical skills but also instilled a deep appreciation for storytelling and creativity.

However, I must admit there is one downside to all this growth, I can no longer watch a movie or video without dissecting its technical flaws! Whether it is analyzing lighting or spotting continuity errors, Mediazone has turned me into a perpetual critic. 

Looking back, I am grateful for every project, every mistake, and every success. Mediazone has shown me that growth is not about being perfect from the start but about learning, adapting, and persevering. A journey mid-way now, a journey I would not trade for anything. 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

January 21, 2025 /  

Studio Assistant: The Role that Diversified Me

Hello! I am Kiitan, a fourth-year Interactive Media and Animation student, and I live at the crossroads of creativity and technology. Let me break it down for you. My program is all about multimedia – designing interfaces, creating games, and producing 3D animations. We are trained to become specialists in a range of fields, from interface design and game development to audio production and video editing. It is an exciting mix of creativity and technology, and the opportunities are endless. Now that you have a better idea of what my program involves, let me share how working as a Studio Assistant in Mediazone has added a whole new dimension to my journey – one that I never expected but am so glad to have experienced. 

As multimedia students, we are introduced to courses like Photography I, Video Production, and Audio Production in our first and second years. We also have some electives, such as Photography II and Digital Photography, which are great but, honestly, I found them a bit limiting. While these courses provided a solid foundation in theory and basic skills, I wanted more. I wanted to dive deeper and get hands-on with different areas of media production. 

It was during my second semester, while taking Video Production, that I had a pivotal moment. Sotiris Vasiliou, our Audio-Visual Support Technician, came in to talk about Mediazone, and his presentation caught my attention right away. He spoke about the role of a Studio Assistant and the opportunities it could offer – and that is when I decided to apply. It felt like the perfect way to expand my skills and gain practical experience beyond the classroom. 

I was thrilled when I got accepted into Mediazone, completed the training, and by the fall semester of 2022, I was officially a Studio Assistant. Looking back, I will admit I did not anticipate just how much I would learn and do. My responsibilities ranged from filming and setting up equipment for classes to editing videos and so much more. It was not about the tasks themselves—it was about mastering tools like cameras, lighting setups, and sound recording devices, skills I would not have gained so deeply through my university classes alone.  

What sets Mediazone apart is how it bridges the gap between theory and the real world. For example, we often had to turn ‘potentially unexciting events into videos with compelling stories. If I had relied solely on my university classes, I would have had to learn these lessons much later in life. But thanks to Mediazone, I got a head start in approaching challenges creatively and professionally. 

Of course, the journey was not without its struggles. I vividly remember my first encounter with troubleshooting audio consoles in the radio studio—it felt overwhelming at the time. Assisting students with equipment issues or racing against tight project deadlines pushed me outside my comfort zone. But Mediazone is a commitment, and quitting was not an option. With guidance from experienced staff and fellow Studio Assistants, I learned how to problem-solve under pressure and adapt to unexpected challenges. Looking back, these moments taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities I deeply value now. 

Beyond the technical skills, my time at Mediazone has profoundly shaped my personal growth. Working as a Studio Assistant has made me more self-aware, helping me understand my strengths and embrace constructive feedback as an opportunity for improvement rather than a sign of failure. Each successful project has boosted my confidence—not only in my classes but also in presenting my work and abilities as a multimedia creator. This newfound confidence encouraged me to pursue freelance opportunities outside of university and Mediazone, turning what started as a role into a steppingstone for my future and allowing me to expand my skills even further. 

Mediazone has not only expanded my skill set but has also shaped my career aspirations. The hands-on experiences I have gained have given me practical knowledge that goes far beyond what I have learned in my classes. As I approach graduation, I feel confident and prepared to step into the professional world as a well-rounded multimedia creator.   

 Looking back, being a Studio Assistant at Mediazone has been so much more than just a job, it has been a transformative experience that has enriched my education and shaped me into the person I am today. To any fellow students who might feel limited by their academic programs or are unsure about their next steps, I cannot recommend opportunities like Mediazone enough. It is a place where you can truly explore your passions and grow in ways you never expected. 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

January 8, 2025 /  

From behind the Lens to Leading the Scene: My Transformation at Mediazone

When I first joined Mediazone, I thought I had it all figured out. I was confident in my skills and had experience in camera operation, production, and post-production. In my mind the world of media was a solitary one – capturing footage alone and editing on my own. That is how I believed things were done. But as soon as I started at Mediazone, I quickly realized how wrong I was. 

Before Mediazone, I worked alone and assumed that production was an individual effort. However, in a professional environment, I discovered that communication and collaboration are at the core of everything. It is not enough to have technical skills; effective teamwork and clear communication make all the difference. Mediazone introduced me to a whole new way of working, showing me that media production truly thrives on shared ideas and collective effort. From my first day, I sensed that Mediazone was special, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Every experience here has not only sharpened my skills but also boosted my confidence. 

A project that stands out to me is Dr. Loizou Medical School Video podcast project, where I worked as a Production Assistant. As the title suggests, I was involved in everything – assisting the team, managing technical tasks, and more. But there is one moment that stayed with me: using the clapperboard in front of the camera and delivering my lines. For someone who usually prefers to stay behind the scenes, this was a challenge and a true test of my confidence. Standing there and speaking felt like climbing a 250 meters mountain. I almost backed out, but I pushed through, and it is a moment I will always remember.  

I often think back to something John, the Head of Mediazone, once said to me: “Derrick, do you think climbing rocks is the hardest thing you have done? No, Mediazone is harder.” The challenges I have faced here have been tougher than I could have imagined, but they have also been the experiences that have helped me grow and continue to shape me. 

The training I receive at Mediazone is unlike anything I had experienced before. What makes it special is how it is delivered – not by just one person, but by various staff members, each with their own approach. Some were strict, others more laidback, and some were persistently thorough, determined to make sure I absorbed every detail. This helped me in ways I had not anticipated. From routine tasks like checking equipment in and out, to small challenges like hiding things in camera bags to test my observation skills, every bit of training was hands-on and invaluable. This kind of training experience is truly one of a kind. 

Over time, I stepped into various roles across different projects, as camera operator, technical assistant, editor, and director. Each role carried significant responsibility. Through each one, I learned the importance of flexibility and quick decision-making. Media production is not just about capturing the perfect shots; it is about adapting to changes in real time, staying calm under pressure, and prioritizing clear communication and teamwork. 

Reflecting on my journey, especially the training I received in September, I see how Mediazone has not only strengthened my technical skills but also instilled in me the values of collaboration, professionalism, and dedication to every project. As I continue this path, I look forward to tackling new creative challenges and contributing to this dynamic field. Mediazone has left a lasting impact on me, and I will carry its lessons with me throughout my career. One quote from our Head of Mediazone that stuck with me is: “Behave like you want to be here, aim for quality over quantity, and be professional.” These words, along with everything I have learned, will continue to guide me forward. 

As Studio Assistants, one of our pledges is: “I was somebody when I came; I will be a better somebody when I leave.” And I genuinely believe that. 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

November 25, 2024 /  

How Mediazone turns work into a blast

Since joining Mediazone, I hadn’t had the chance to shoot any big parties until the Carnival party at Loft in March 2024. My experience has been primarily in structured environments like marathons, fairs, and live–to–tape productions where every movement and adjustment need to be precise. Until now, big parties have been entirely unfamiliar territory for me. 

Then I was assigned to be a camera operator for “Let’s go Carnival”. Like with any first experience, I felt some anxiety about the quality of my shots, especially in a lively party setting. I also anticipated some challenges in filming the planned shots that involved directing, knowing that partygoers might not always welcome the presence of a camera. To make matters worse, I had 2 consecutives classes at the university right before the party, which left me feeling exhausted. While I usually enjoy shooting events with the team, that day I felt too drained to be enthusiastic about another four hours of work. But little did I know, those next few hours would feel like anything but work. 

As the Loft began filling up, so did my anxiety. Before the party started, I was shooting b-roll and other shots that did not require a crowd, working alongside Tracy, our director, and Eleni, who was assisting. I knew that the moment the main bulk of the partygoers arrive, it would be time to dive in, and that is when the unfamiliar part of the job would begin. Although I wanted to delay this part, I knew that every minute was precious, and no time could be wasted. Right before I started working in the crowd, Tracy gave me more specific directions on the exact type of shots she needed, which really helped clarify my focus and gave me a boost of confidence as I stepped into the unknown.  

Once I did, it turned out to be a wonderful experience. Everyone at the party was excited to be on camera, showing off their costumes and happily taking directions from Tracy. Meanwhile, Eleni was hyping people up left right and centre. It felt oddly welcoming, as if we were already friends with everyone there, even though we might have only known five people, in a crowd of 200 to 300. At times, students would even pull me to different spots, eager to be featured in the video. Within five minutes, all my anxiety was gone, and those next three to four hours flew by. I felt less like a camera operator and more like a fellow student capturing friends having the time of their lives. I completely forgot it was work.  

Forgetting I am at work is a common experience for me at Mediazone. It is not because I lose focus or zone out, but because every event and activity that I am involved with, is either incredibly enjoyable or a valuable learning experience. It is a refreshing contrast to the typical job where you might sit in one place for hours, repeating the same tasks day after day. Mediazone is different. For many students, balancing a job with studies sounds daunting or overwhelming, as university already feels like a lot of work—so who would want to add more to that? I felt the same when I first joined, but I quickly learned that the skills and insights you gain here actually help you excel in your classes, making that academic ‘pile’ feel more manageable. This is not a secret either; ask your lecturers, especially for practical courses – they know that Mediazone students often find it easier to keep up with classwork. 

That night was a perfect example of work feeling like a fun night out. It was not the only time work felt that way, but it was one of the most impactful, solidifying my belief that  That night, I not only gained my first genuine experience recording a large-scale party, but I also learned there is no reason to stress over things that have not even happened. For the first time, I witnessed how a calm, composed director could uplift an entire team.   

Whether I am working or simply attending the next carnival party at UNIC, I hope it will be as memorable as the 2024 celebration, and I hope to see you there too! 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

November 11, 2024 /  

Celebrating Our Mediazone Volunteers: A Testimonial from Max Parker

As the Head of Mediazone, I am immensely proud to witness the incredible journeys our student volunteers undertake. Today, I am thrilled to share a heartfelt testimonial from Max Parker, a dedicated volunteer from Colorado, U.S., who has been with us for the last two semesters through the University of Nicosia Global Semesters program.

Max’s experience exemplifies one of Mediazone’s most important missions: providing practical, hands-on experience in the digital media industry for our students, combined with mentorship that fosters both technical skills and personal growth. Guided by our passionate staff and student team, Max thrived within our supportive community, achieving remarkable progress. He took on roles such as camera operator, production assistant, editor, and clapperboard/slate operator with enthusiasm and positivity.

Below is Max Parker’s testimonial, capturing the essence of his transformative journey with us. We are thankful for all our volunteers and proud of Max’s accomplishments. His words reflect the spirit of Mediazone and the profound impact our program can have on budding media professionals.

Thank you, Max, for sharing your journey. Your growth and achievements inspire all potential students in this field, and we are confident that your future in the media industry will be bright and successful.

John Ioannou
Head of Mediazone
Mediazone

“Volunteering at Mediazone was one of the most impactful experiences during my time in Cyprus. Mediazone provided me with more hands-on experience than I could have ever imagined. After just one week I was already directing a project, and under the guidance of other student assistants learned about all aspects of production in an environment mirroring the real digital media industry.
Whether it is scriptwriting, video editing, or backstage management there’s always a role to both teach and enhance one’s skills alongside a community that encourages and motivates one another to create the best content they can. Both John (Head of Mediazone) and Kyri (Facilities & Operations Coordinator | Production Support)  are also incredibly strong leaders, and working beside them and watching how they direct and manage projects is an honor I will never forget. It is clear they both have a great passion for their work and it really shows in how they develop and create content. Mediazone truly prepares one for their future in a way that is unlike anything I have seen before. I am so thankful for my time, brief as it was, as part of the Mediazone crew. I know that the things I learned will help foster my future and I will hold onto this experience forever.”

Thanks again!

-Max Parker 

If you are a student in the Communications, or Design and Multimedia Departments and want to become part of the Mediazone team, apply today!

Apply Now! Don’t miss this chance to make an impact in the audiovisual world and your future.

** Apply Here! **

Fall dates: Applications open-> First week of August until the last week of November of every year.\

Spring dates: Applications open-> First week of January until late-June of every year.

June 27, 2024 /  

Getting your hands on professional equipment in Mediazone

Professional filming equipment can start off a little intimidating – at least, that’s how it felt for me. Before starting off at the University the closest experience I had to a camera was using my mum’s point and shoot which I used to make Windows Movie-Maker YouTube videos. Fast forward to my first year of university, and I’m suddenly holding a much heavier and much more expensive piece of equipment.

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December 13, 2022 /  2

MUSIC VIBES 2022

Hello, my name is George, and I have been a studio assistant at Mediazone since September 2022. Officially being a part of Mediazone has made me feel like I was able to partake in a place that understands my creativity, and sharpens my skills all while helping me gain a multitude of experiences in my field. A few short weeks later, I got the chance to participate in my first event, where I was a camera operator for Music vibes 2022.

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November 21, 2022 /  2

SELF-REFLECTION AND MANAGING EXPECTATIONS

Ever since joining the Mediazone family in January 2022, I knew this would be the start of a long, memorable and progressive journey. Right from the first interview, the words “commitment” and “team” made me believe that this was a place where I could hone my knowledge, sharpen my skills and gain priceless experience in the broad field of filmmaking.

Fitting in at Mediazone proved to be an easy transition, and I am glad to have taken up this opportunity. Hence, my colleagues have turned into treasured friends, advisors and ardent supporters.

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November 14, 2022 /  2

Deep thoughts about how Mediazone shapes you, and how you can use it in the Future.

I have always heard about Mediazone from lecturers who kept talking about the “audiovisual” hub of the university, and when I was picking up equipment from Mediazone for my classes I wanted to know what they did.

Soon I was able to join Mediazone and entering Mediazone was a new space for me, a different environment that I didn’t know about. However, through the training I did in Mediazone I was able to learn a large amount of information in a short period of time making me comfortable with the equipment.

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October 25, 2022 /  2