Over the past two years of study, I’ve become increasingly clear about my future career plans. First, I’d like to continue working in the stop-motion industry. I’m especially interested in roles like puppet making, prop and set design—areas often found in independent stop-motion studios or theater groups. Designing costumes, props, and working behind the scenes in production are things I really enjoy and feel skilled at. Second, I want to explore the intersection of animation and healing. I’ve already started a personal social media account focused on art and mental wellness. These days, many people are seeking emotional and spiritual healing, so I see real potential in creating stop-motion animation that’s comforting or therapeutic. Developing healing-themed stories and related merchandise could be a new direction I’d love to try. Stop-motion involves a lot of hands-on work, which is what I enjoy most. During my graduate studies, I’ve had the chance to try character design, puppet building, prop and scene making—and I discovered how much I love the whole process. I’m excited to experience these roles in a professional setting. I also know that studio work will be quite different from school projects, and I’m curious to learn how things really work behind the scenes. Stop-motion isn’t limited to animation studios. It’s also used in feature films, art films, TV shows, and even in parts of the gaming industry. So whether I’m working in a studio or a larger film production, as long as I’m doing something stop-motion related, I’ll be on the path I want to follow.

In the short term, I’m preparing some long-term research applications focused on animation and art healing. After finishing my current program, I hope to continue exploring this area academically and deepen my understanding through practice and study. I’ve already completed my portfolio and research proposal. In the future, I want to test new ways of combining animation and healing—both creatively and meaningfully.