Friday, August 30, 2013

Choose The Right Film School

You want to write, direct, act or create movies, but not sure learn the skills. Aside from working on sets, the best way to learn is to head off to film school. Picking which film school is right for you could determine which direction your career takes. Take the time to think it through and soon it'll be light, camera, action for you.


Instructions


1. Choose what kind of film school you want to attend. Do you want to be immersed in the Los Angeles film and TV scene by attending a school in or near Hollywood or would you rather take online courses? There are even weekend or month-long intensive programs around the country. Also keep in mind what kind of work you want to do. You want to pick the city, program and environment that best reflects your needs and career goals.


2. Research different film programs and opportunities for the schools you're interested in. Some schools are known for their emphasis on independent filmmaking while others are focused on screenwriting or on the film's actual production. Look at the school's Web site, request their school catalog and even email the school's department heads or teachers to find information.


3. Find out what the requirements are to get into the film school or film program. Look at how many general education courses are required for an undergraduate degree. If your transferring from another school, check if your credits transfer.


4. Listen to graduates from the film schools. Find people who have gone through the school's program and see what they have to say about it. The school's reputation in the eyes of its former students can be very telling.


5. Research job placement programs at each school. The school should actively help their graduates in career placement and networking.


6. Visit the schools you are interested in attending. Get a feel for the city, the campus, the dorms and the classrooms. If you don't feel comfortable, it's not the school for you. While there, talk with current students and ask them any questions you may have about the school, the programs or even the local hangouts.


7. Apply to more than one school, to be safe. Make sure you meet all application deadlines and include all the necessary paperwork and fees in your packet. Once everything's in the mail, it's just a matter of time before you're on your way to your first Oscar.







Tags: film school, about school, have about, have about school, schools interested, what kind