Meet the Illinois Media School Grad Behind Fuzz Punch Arcade

Meet Thomas Modaff, a recent graduate of Illinois Media School’s O’Hare campus and the founder of Fuzz Punch Arcade, a growing YouTube channel focused on creative and collaborative content.

Before enrolling at IMS, Thomas found himself at a standstill in his career. He knew he was ready for a change—both mentally and financially—and was eager to pursue a long-held interest in media. IMS offered the structure, hands-on training, and mentorship he needed to move forward with confidence.

Throughout the program, Thomas developed his skills in video production and editing, but it was in audio mixing and production where he discovered his strongest passion. While he came in with some experience, Illinois Media School helped him refine his craft, broaden his technical knowledge, and, most importantly, build the confidence to take his work to the next level.

As a result, Fuzz Punch Arcade has grown in both quality and audience engagement. Thomas now supports his channel as a multi-skilled creator, working alongside his brother, fiancé, and a good friend to produce content that is both entertaining and professionally polished.

Looking ahead, Thomas’s goal is to work independently producing content full time and growing his creative business. His advice for current Illinois Media School students reflects the lessons he’s learned –
Give yourself room to grow. Media is an exciting and rewarding field, but there will be moments of doubt. Lean on your instructors—they’ve walked this path. And remember why you started. This is your opportunity to build the career you’ve always envisioned.

Thomas has advice for new students:

Remember to give yourself some leeway. This is an incredibly rewarding experience if it’s a passion of yours, but there will be days when you feel a bit overwhelmed. The faculty at IMS are there to help you along your journey… lean on them! These are people that have been in the industry for years. Remind yourself that you are there to jump-start your journey into a media career… your dream! Do not get discouraged… keep pushing on!

Thomas also offers some advice to newer graduates who are just entering the workforce…

“You have learned a ton over these past months. Take the time to really consider what you want to do with those talents. I think the media field is a lot more rewarding if you feel you are doing some good with your work. Whether that’s helping get important news stories across on a local news channel or capturing that key-moment of a baseball game, make sure you FEEL that. It can take a while… but you’ll know when it hits.”

When he’s not behind the camera or in the studio, Thomas enjoys playing sand and club volleyball, cheering on the Cubs, and exploring new music.

Congratulations, Thomas Modaff—we’re proud to celebrate your journey and look forward to what’s next!

[Learn More About Alumni Success Stories]