First published 2 September 2021
Creative industries and business student and aspiring actor Sarah Hesse is one of more than 50 real university students who feature in the new QUT television commercial that has just been unveiled.
The ad shows students who have embarked on transformative journeys and are gaining hands-on experiences in courses including engineering, robotics, IT, business, law, nursing, paramedic science, medical imaging, acting, fashion, and dance.
Set to slam poetry and directed by renowned filmmaker Mark Toia, it was shot last month at QUT’s Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove campuses, and around greater Brisbane.
In addition to TV screens, the students are also appearing on social media and billboards.
Sarah, 19, is in her second year of a Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Creative Industries and is studying marketing and entertainment – a major that prepares students for a career as a producer behind the scenes.
“At school, I struggled for a while to figure out what would suit me and where I wanted to go,” she said.
“I talked to career counsellors and I took the Match My Skills quiz on QUT’s website and found that I was definitely creatively inclined.
“I did some more digging and came across the business/creative industries dual degree and knew it was the one – something practical whilst also factoring in my desire to be creative.
“My dream job is definitely being amongst names like Netflix and Screen Australia.
“I’ve always loved movies – making them, watching them and wishing I was a part of them – and I know the course I’ve chosen will get me there.
“Whilst I am also working hard to pursue acting, uni will help me get to different sides of the camera … I’m excited for the future I have ahead, either way!”
Sarah said filming the QUT ad was one of the biggest opportunities she’d had so far.
“I made connections with some amazing industry professionals and it gave me more insight into a career in acting and entertainment than I ever had before,” she said.
“The reaction from friends and family has been amazing and super heart-warming. I am super proud to be able to show my family and friends that I am doing something I am so passionate about.”

QUT Open Day
The 2021 QUT Open Day will be held across July 24 and 25. The main event is Virtual Open Day on July 25 where you can chat to staff and students, join online seminars and get all your questions answered. Prep before the day by registering online and previewing the webinar program, taking the Match My Skills quiz and checking out our FAQs about getting into uni. Bookings are also now open for campus/facilities tours that will be offered on July 24. (Places are limited.)
QUT Media contacts:
- Mechelle McMahon, media@qut.edu.au
- Rose Trapnell, media@qut.edu.au or 0407 585 901