TELLING INTERACTIVE TALES

Self-confessed technology geek and UTS graduate Carla Drago (B. Arts in Communication '91), decided to enrol in a Masters in Interactive Multimedia, after spending time on the web and seeing how influential it really is.

Carla, who worked as a director on television programs including All Saints and Young Lions, as well as a writer and producer of documentaries and commercials, says, "I felt that there was a need for people with conventional story telling skills in new media."

After enrolling in the Masters program, she began working as a producer for new media solutions provider, Massive. One of her most recent projects - BigPond Movie Downloads - was nominated for an Emmy earlier this year for best interactive TV service. "The program allows you to download programs onto your computer and watch them through your TV. One of the most novel aspects is that you can navigate the system using your remote control. It's bringing the internet into home entertainment."

Studying interactive multimedia, says Carla, has provided her with a sound understanding of digital media technology. "The course is designed for people from different disciplines to utilise their skills in individual projects, which is very similar to how it works in the commercial world."

Although a self-described technology geek, Carla does not espouse the use of technology for technology's sake. "It doesn't matter what medium you're using, it's about how you tell an engaging story with it. In that sense, online is no different to reading a book."