Ryan Higa is an internet sensation. For those of you who do not know who he is, Ryan is a comedian from Hawaii who is well known for his comedy videos on YouTube. As of August 20th 2009, Ryan’s YouTube channel NigaHiga is the most subscribed channel of all time.
First of all Ryan, welcome to Student On Campus – It’s great to have you here!
Thanks for having me!
Let’s get straight into it…Since starting NigaHiga in 2006 , you have gone on to capture audiences from around the world with your YouTube videos and now you occupy the top spot for the most subscribed channel.Can you summarize for us what the last three years have been like?
I never imagined this would happen…the fans and the attention is just unbelievable! We started making videos because we were bored and we enjoyed making people laugh. It’s been great traveling and meeting the fans and other youtubers.
“When I do a video, I’m always trying to make it better or funnier”
Let’s go back to the beginning – What made you want to start NigaHiga?
We used an old VHS camcorder…you had to have a cassette to put the tape in to play and then take it to our friends’ homes to play in their VCRs…having the videos on the internet, our friends could see it whenever.
At what point did you realise that NigaHiga was on its way to becoming the web phenomenon that it is now?
When we started posting the “How to Be” videos, we couldn’t believe the number of views. But even at that, I never imagined we’d have all the subscribers.
If you could pick 1 video of yours that stands out the most, which one would it be and why?
I’m always asked that question, but it’s so hard to answer. When I do a video, I’m always trying to make it better or funnier.
You currently attend university in Las Vegas – How do you find juggling classes and making YouTube videos?
I go to school part-time so that I’m able to continue making my videos.
“If you enjoy it, go for it”
Your YouTube popularity led to “Ryan and Sean’s Not So Excellent Adventure” which grabbed the iTunes No. 1 spot for independent films. How did that opportunity come about?
The producers saw our videos and contacted me by email, so at first we didn’t take it too seriously. Then they talked with our parents and we all decided it was a great opportunity to experience making a “real” movie.
Is Hollywood calling?
No, not yet…but hopefully…
What advice can you give to students who want to follow in your footsteps?
If you enjoy it, go for it….you never know who’s watching and what opportunities will follow.
What’s next for Ryan Higa?
I want to eventually get a BA in Film but for now, I enjoy making my videos and people laugh.
The whole Student On Campus team would like to thank Ryan for taking the time out to do this interview. Good luck for the future!
Go check out his channel on YouTube now!
