Point Park POV: Animation Major Iris Mireya Rojas Fenoy '26

Meet Iris Mireya Rojas Fenoy '26

Major/Program: Animation
College Activities: Women's Soccer and International Students Club
Hometown: Las Rozas, Madrid, Spain
High School: Logos International School
Dream Job: Animator and children's book illustrator/author
Hobbies & Interests: Crafting, sports, travel and experiencing other cultures

"What I love most about the animation program is the access to our professors. They're always available, incredibly supportive and genuinely want to help you succeed, both in class and in your career."

Iris Mireya Rojas Fenoy '26

As an international student from Spain, what factors led you to choose Point Park University to pursue a degree in animation?

Since I was little, I have loved both sports and art; those were my passions and areas where I excelled naturally. When I was nine, I discovered animation, and from that point on, I knew I wanted to be an animator. I learned that many of the best animation programs were offered in the United States and I enjoyed watching day-in-the-life videos about student-athletes on YouTube. I dreamed of having the same experience. Years later, I chose Point Park's animation program and was recruited for the women's soccer team.

What do you enjoy most about the animation program?

What I love most about the animation program is the access to our professors. They're always available, incredibly supportive and genuinely want to help you succeed, both in class and in your career.

I've also really valued the amazing facilities. As an underclassman, the individual animation suites were perfect when I needed to focus. When I wanted a social atmosphere, the open labs were the place to be. Some of my best memories are from late nights there, working alongside and learning from my peers, especially the upperclassmen who were always willing to help.

The curriculum itself is another huge strength. It forces you to try a bit of everything, which is how I made a great discovery. I was set on 2D animation, but through my classes, I discovered a passion for motion graphics. This well-rounded approach ensures you specialize in what you truly love. Plus, the program's strong connections led me to two internships, where I got to apply those new skills and learn even more.

@pointparku From Madrid to Pittsburgh, meet Mireya ’26! 🏙️⚽🇪🇸 Animation major, soccer player, and future children’s book illustrator. Her journey at Point Park is proof that passion & perseverance = success. #PointParkU #PointParkUniversity #DowntownPittsburgh #PointParkPOV ♬ Au Revoir - Sweet After Tears

Highlight your internship experiences with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Incubator Productions.

My internship experiences have been instrumental in shaping my practical skills and clarifying my career goals, providing me with a realistic view of the creative industries.

As a motion graphics intern with the Pittsburgh Penguins, I learned to manage the long-term workflow of an NHL season and meet tight deadlines. A key takeaway was understanding the full pipeline of broadcast graphics, from concept to the rewarding moment of seeing my animations displayed on the jumbotron for thousands of fans. Collaborating with other interns also honed my teamwork and communication skills in a high-pressure, professional setting. This experience solidified my ability to apply my classroom knowledge to real-world client demands.

In contrast, last summer's internship with Incubator Productions offered a deep dive into the creative development process. It began after I volunteered for their Mobile Cartoon Museum event, which inspired me to seek a role with the company. Under the mentorship of Director Isaac Fisher, I was integrated into the team working on a children's book called "Milo the Mime." Isaac ensured my tasks were both educational and aligned with my goals, fostering an environment where I was treated as a true part of the crew. My input was valued, and I was given the unique opportunity to contribute to various stages of production. This exposure was crucial, as it taught me the business and project management sides of art. Isaac balanced practical tasks with creative projects, allowing me to strengthen my artistic voice while understanding how a creative project is managed.

How has your involvement in athletics enhanced your college experience?

My involvement in athletics has been a huge part of my college experience. First, it has been essential for building a strong community. Being on a team forced me to form deep connections from the very beginning, and through the shared challenges of practices, travel and competitions, I've made some of my closest friends. This aspect was especially valuable as an international student, providing an instant support system. Interestingly, a significant number of Point Park athletes are also international students. This has created a unique environment where I not only get to learn about different cultures but also share the specific experience of adapting to a new country. We've become a second family for each other, which has made Pittsburgh feel like a true home away from home.

Additionally, the discipline required for athletics has been invaluable. Balancing a demanding practice and game schedule with a rigorous academic load has taught me exceptional time management and commitment. There is no room for procrastination when you have a project due and an away game the same week. This skill is particularly crucial for my major in animation, which requires countless hours of dedicated work.

What’s it like living in learning in Downtown Pittsburgh?

Coming from the bustling energy of Madrid, Spain, I was initially apprehensive about my university life in the U.S. I feared a quiet, isolated campus where a car was a necessity for any adventure. Pittsburgh, however, proved to be the perfect answer to my worries. It stands out as an ideal university in a city. It's small enough not to feel overwhelming, but big enough to have lots of things to do.

What makes Pittsburgh truly special is its accessibility. With the free bus pass provided to students, the entire city becomes an extension of our campus. This freedom has allowed me to become an urban explorer, constantly uncovering new neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. After years of studying here, I still feel hidden gems are waiting to be discovered.

What are your career goals?

My career aspirations are multifaceted, reflecting my passion for storytelling across different mediums. My primary and most ambitious goal is to build a career within the animation industry, specifically in pre-production as a visual development artist. In this role, I aim to be instrumental in shaping the initial look and feel of animated projects, from crafting compelling characters and environments to establishing the color scripts that define a film's emotional core. I am drawn to this collaborative, foundational stage where the story is first translated into a visual language, setting the tone for the entire production.

Running parallel to this goal is my deep-seated desire to become a children's book author and illustrator. I see this path not as a separate endeavor, but as a complementary one where I can exercise full creative control over a narrative, blending heartfelt stories with evocative illustrations. The intimate and lasting impact a well-crafted book can have on a young reader is a powerful motivator for me.

My experiences, particularly my internship in motion graphics, have shown me the dynamic potential of that field. I remain open to opportunities in motion design, where I can apply my animation skills to create engaging content for broadcast, advertising or digital platforms. The fast-paced nature and direct client impact of this work I find incredibly exciting.

What advice do you have for a prospective student considering Point Park’s animation program?

My most significant piece of advice for a prospective student is to embrace a mindset of dedicated perseverance and curiosity. The animation program is incredibly rewarding, but your growth is directly proportional to the effort you invest. It’s a field where time spent practicing and exploring is never wasted. Be prepared to put in the hours outside of class; the more you immerse yourself in the work, the more rapidly your skills will develop.

Crucially, give yourself permission to be a beginner. You will be learning a vast array of new software and techniques, and no one is ever good the first time they try something. Don't be afraid to fail or to step outside your creative comfort zone. Some of the most important breakthroughs happen when you attempt a style or a project that initially intimidates you.

Learn to see feedback as a gift. The critiques you receive from your professors and, just as importantly, from your classmates are essential tools for improvement. The program fosters a collaborative environment, so be open to learning from your peers. Ask questions constantly, whether in class, in the animation labs or during late-night work sessions. That culture of mutual support is one of the program's greatest strengths.

Finally, stay curious. Let the work of others inspire you, explore different artistic styles, and be willing to let the program surprise you. You might enter with a fixed idea of what you want to do, but by being open to new disciplines — like motion graphics, 3D modeling, or storyboarding — you might discover a passion you never knew you had. Your journey here is what you make of it, so work hard, stay open and don't be afraid to create something amazing.