Student, Roman Königshofer, does everything right at his portfolio, roman.koenigshofer.net. Nice energetic and short reel. I really like the way he tiled his shots to fill in the pillars when showing 4×3 work in a wide screen reel. Take note, students. This is how your site should look.
Maybe this can help?

I agree, one of the best motion graphics reel I have seen in a while!…not only does it shows the talent, but the reel expels emotion and feelings especially at the end..Love the music too
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This is a great post showing a student reel on a professional level. I’m a student of animation, and tho not related to motion graphics, yet i found your suggestions on building reel and approach to work is inspiring! So THANKS!
20 second demo reel title card? Seriously?
i had to rewind it to actually count it was so long.
that being said. the dude can do anything he wants it looks, and at a very high level of quality. super clean nice design all around.