Why I dropped out of USC film school
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 23 มี.ค. 2017
- Is film school worth it? Well, I went to USC School of Cinematic Arts and dropped out for a number of reasons. THINGS YOU CAN BUY: movoly.com/store
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I got denied from USC film school. I kept at it by shooting and editing my own films for YEARS. I made a cheap music video for a friends and it ended up in front of a director of a Sylvester Stallone film. They hired me to shoot additional photography for the film after only seeing my WORK.
That’s amazing!
That’s so cool
That's awesome, dude.
Damn, that's awesome.
Plus 3 years of learning from filmmakers in the industry on filmmaking principles and making small projects with funding, and then doing the same thing with more initial connections. Not the end of the world if you go to film school. It's not like STEM where it's a necessity, that's obvious, seeing as how that schooling is meant to add to your passion. Everyone understands the work you put in to fulfill your goals is what matters. It's not detrimental if you don't go. It's just an addition if you do, and not the end of the world.
"I'll prove you wrong"...that's amaizing...you're so brave. I really congratulate you for this epic letter.
Quico Ferrero why thanks!!
Fuck yeah bro, good on you
THANKS MAN!
I'm in a completely different boat than most of you. I wanted to go to USC film back in the 80s. But I had no confidence or money, so I went into the military instead. When I got home I got a job, a car and a place to live. No time for school anymore. I'm retired early, and took another job (I actually work at USC) I'm debating should I complete an item on my bucket list and enroll. It's free for employees. But no way could I pass a SAT and my grades from high school are written on clay tablets. But I'd still like to give it try.
Gary Carbo that's interesting, I hope whatever you decide to do goes well!
Gary Carbo i think you should at least try because you get a pretty good employee discount. Whatever you want to do is best. But i think the sooner the better if you go.
Hey! I'm a veteran too. There is VFT in Los Angeles. Veterans in Film and Television. They offer free courses for video editing among many other things. You should join. I am a screenwriter and actress.
Gary Carbo hey Gary I'm in the same situation as you;I come from humble beginnings,I couldn't afford to study so I started to work at 18,I'm 33 now and I'll start my 2 years digital film production course at SAE institute here in England in September,it's never too late pal,this is not a sport this is an art form and there is no age when it comes to be creative,also,I bet you have a lot of stories when you was in the army (salute you) ...bottom line is:if you can afford it and you passionate about it go for it,now or never,don't let insecurities and fear stop you,good luck in anything you do pal.
Is it really free for employees?!?!?!?
I know this video came out over a year ago but I just wanted to give my opinion on it. I'm a HS senior about to apply to some film schools. Unlike most people, my passion for film came recently. I didn't grow up wanting to direct movies, I just did a school project where I editing a video and found my profound love for editing and production.
At any rate, I totally get why you dropped out of film school, especially USC. there's a bit of an issue with USC. Every aspiring filmmaker is told that they should apply to USC because it's the best film school in the world. But nobody ever actually pays attention to the kind of filmmaker USC wants to make. USC (and Chapman) are trying to send out students that will end up directing big budget, franchise Hollywood movies. And as any film critic will tell you, in these kinds of movies, a significant amount of creativity, character development, and good writing is replaced with action scenes, fancy cinematography, and cliffhanger endings intended for sub-par sequels. That's why USC isn't the right place for some, and even most filmmakers. Other colleges, like UCLA and LMU tend to focus on independent film, and your own personal creativity and your own voice. That's why I think that telling every kid that wants to make movies to apply to USC isn't the right idea. Every school wants a different student and want to produce a certain kind of Alumnus. You should always understand what kind of filmmaker you want to become, and if the school you're applying to is the right fit for you.
That's my two cents.
That's awesome! But where did you find out this info? I'm looking into stuff too :)
What do you say about NYFA?
Agreed, those big franchise films are drivel. Why aren't all films like Godard, Tarkovsky, or Fellini?
LMU?
Hey! What college did you end up going to?
I've been randomly bingeing these kinds of videos and it is rare to find someone so humble and self-aware when discussing this subject. Everyone wants to think that they are too enlightened and unique to sit in a classroom, but no one wants to admit that some of these schools out here are kicking students' asses. I'm happy to go to CAL, but I wouldn't wish some of my coursework on my worst enemy. Everyone will not thrive everywhere and being a creative requires different kind of brilliance regardless.
Broken Glass thank you!
Brian Rose should i do engineering and also parallely i m also passionate about films ... im trying to learn film making can you suggest me a way
Well said!
Thanks for sharing your story. USC Film School rejected me twice (2013 & 2015) and I'm extremely happy that they did.
Cope
they also rejected Spielberg! best of luck
I admire your decision. Stay true to your passion and always create your own path. Heres a quote I kept on thinking about while watching your video
"Realize that sleeping on a futon when you're 30 is not the worst thing. You know what's worse, sleeping in a king bed next to a wife you're not really in love with but for some reason you married, and you got a couple kids, and you got a job you hate. You'll be laying there fantasizing about sleeping on a futon. There's no risk when you go after a dream. There's a tremendous amount to risk to playing it safe"-Bill Burrr
Infinity Pool Feels
Thanks! great quote
You look like Ed Sheeran
Rhett S Ed Sheehan looks like me too
Hahahahaha he does!
I like that this was the only thing you got out of this entire video lmao
@@brainrose You look more like Tom Holland - Ed Sheeran hybrid.
I keep coming back to this, your story intrigues me. Thanks for sharing, I admire you courage and hope you’re accomplishing your dreams today
Thank you!
@@brainroseSo brave of you to share your situations. I appreciate that. Wouldn't it be amazing if we had a system which does not kills passion of youth. Every damn thing in this world needs money and it's sickening.
Man, you're so inspiring. I really appreciated your honesty and perspicacity. It gives a relevant perspective regarding film schools. I wish you the best for the achieving of your dreams.
Greetings from Switzerland
Jack Fear thanks man that means a lot
Listen man, I come back to this video from time to time when I lose confidence in myself in whether or not I'm ever going to make it to where i want to be in the industry, and I can honestly say that I get chills watching it every time. Your story inspires me to keep going and to push myself harder to keep writing and to stay headstrong with my projects. I just graduated high school four months ago and I've been kinda lost trying to figure out if I should end up going to film school. But found this video again and it reminded me of why i told myself to not waste the money i don't even have on school. It's because I believe in my passion for this art, that i can make it on my own, with my own ambition and gumption. I don't have a whole lot of experience yet but i know that I've got what it takes, i can feel it. Anyways, what I'm trying to say is thank you for posting this and sharing your story, it gets me motivated without fail every time.
Wow, thank you for sharing this. It means so much to know my experience has helped someone. The years right after high school can be very hard to navigate. But stay motivated, keep at it, and don't forget your passion. Best of luck to you, my friend
Immediately subscribed after seeing this. You've literally explained everything that I felt! I wish the best for you bud!
Keno Carroll thank you!
Brian thanks for sharing your story. Like you, I was no stellar student student in high school and yet somehow I got into the USC School of Cinematic Arts as a Crit Studies major. I can't say I was dead set on film since age 5 like you or many of my peers in SCA but rather it was a major I thought would be fun. I've now finished my Sophomore year and have decided that SCA just isn't where I want to be and doing script coverage and making coffee runs wasn't what I wanted to be doing for a future career. I still love USC though and am switching my major to Journalism next semester. I can take a while to drop the prestige factor of the film school out of your head when ultimately trying to decide if it's right for you, but it sounds like you made the right decision and best of luck to you in the future.
Will Farnsworth thanks man good luck to you
This is the first time I encountered someone talking about this topic. I also dropped out of a film school (in Thailand where I live). Filmmaking has always been one thing that I truly love and never get tired of, but once I got there and experienced it for almost a year, I realized I lost my passion for it bit by bit. I was so scared to think that 'this is not for me' but the environment, the people and what I got so far were not for me at all. I then realized that it's not that I lost passion in filmmaking but the place was not for me. It took only one day for me to decide that I wanted to drop out, it was an easy decision for me. I still think about it time to time but I guess people have different ways to achieve a goal. Mine is just not going to a film school, graduating and getting a job. Anyway, thank you so much for sharing this and I wish you the best of luck!
Natchapa Deeudomwongsa thanks good luck to you!
N thank you for your comment, pursue your passion! Sometimes our passions change and evolve, I mean our society is an evolving beast as well. So many different types of jobs/positions these days
I know it's been 5 yrs but,, how are you doing now?
Thank you so much for making this video. I’ve applied to the Peter Stark Masters Producing Program 3 times and I’m contemplating a 4th. Hearing you share this has helped me think more about what I want. Thank you.
Glad to hear it. Good luck to you!
I understand where you're coming from and best of luck to you man wherever you end up.
thank you!
I've been debating for almost a decade now about whether or not to go to school for film. I've googled "do I go, do I not" countless times and every time I came across an article or forum thread that had film school cons, it was always "it just sucks". Which is never a valid, or complete argument. I came across your video when I googled film school vlog for a semester paper I'm writing for my current communications degree at a community college - my topic is "Film School or No Film School, that is the Question" and I was in need of some examples that aren't necessarily pro-film school. I was honestly surprised that you didn't just say film school bites and ended the video after ten seconds. You have solid reasons why you dropped out, but yet, you still listed some pros to going to film school. Thank you for your video. And you're moment about sending your appeal was fantastic! I wouldn't' have had the guts to do that, let alone say that I'd prove the school wrong.
Thanks so much for your comment! I definitely had the same experience researching film schools before I went. People either thought it was absolutely necessary or a waste of money but I think it's much more nuanced than that. Good luck to you!
This video reminds me of my story so much. I got accepted into UT’s film program but they didn’t offer me financial aid and I ended up going to a community college where I learned more than most university film students that I know.
What community college did you go to? I just recently also got into UTs film school (if by UT you mean University of Texas).
Yeah I mean there are plenty of other options for a filmmaker's education other than film school
Hi! I actually got admitted to UT's film program but I'm unsure if I should attend due to not really having the money. Do you have any advice since you took a different route?
You can't imagine how much emotional you just got me here, almost in tears. I actually came through this videos because i am kind of in a similar position here and thinking to make through filmmaking i will have to go through some sort of academics and all that. Dreams really get crushed especially in fields like this, you could end up making films just for your eyes and never get recognized, apparently, guess the only option will definitely be for you to go ahead on your life choices.
Perspectral there's no set path you have to take to make it. all I can say is follow what your gut tells you and work through what you have. I really appreciate you sharing, best of luck to you.
I would love to go to USC although I don’t have anything to qualify for it haha, but hearing your story on how you personally felt and the road less traveled is really eye opening. Thank you for sharing something i don’t even see that many people on this site talk about. Keep posting your films mdude, I believe you can make it big
thanks so much. I'm glad I can share my story!
Right on, man! that's good insight for me to use. I plan on going to film school soon and always had battles with thoughts of the pros and cons.
It's definitely something that you have to weigh what you will get out of film school with what you have to put in. All I know is there's not one path to success so if there's a path you believe in, you gotta take that one
This is really helpful for me. I recently enrolled and got accepted into a film program in San Francisco. At first I was kind of disappointed that I didn’t go to a more “prestigious” school. I could’ve but money was a boundary. Anyways now I’m at my school and it is a very different type of college. Classes are 20 ppl at most, it is VERY diverse, and it small. But hearing your perspective on USC made me realize that my school really fits me. We don’t do GE’s or at least not like how other colleges do them. We don’t have giant lecture classrooms, they are all small and intimate. Big opportunities are here if you chase them. Thank you for making me realize all colleges have their flaws and not all of them fit every type of person.
Yeah it's all about finding your fit and going with it! Glad you found that
I love this video! I'm currently at USC for Computer Science and Business, not for the money, but because it's actually the perfect major for me. When I saw that I would have to pay so much tuition though, I was depressed because I thought I couldn't go. But luckily, my parents supported me going fully and do their best to take care of the cost. I'm glad that this video was about how you need to do what's best for you, even if you have to make sacrifices, instead of just shaming people who DO decide to go through all the crap college puts on you.
Mabelcorn N. most definitely! you gotta find yourself and do you
Well...I understand you 100% but what have you done after dropping out?
Lots and lots of freelancing and various projects of my own
Richard Beck 😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔
brain Absolutely appreciate you man for sharing your story through this video post. I have made the move to Los Angeles and am meeting as many people as I can in the industry. Would love to connect with you and view some of your projects. May I get your email? You can reach me at sharkindustries035@gmail.com. Much love brother LETS DO THIS! 🎥 -Sterling
@@brainrose What exactly is your goal?
Save on tuition.🤣
Thanks for sharing your story, I'm a filmmaker still in high school and looking at colleges. USC was one of the schools we looked at and of course it looked absolutely amazing from my first impressions. I'm still thinking about my future, but I know I want to be a filmmaker 100%. Thanks for the advice!
what should you learn in college then or is there anything else?
I have never had a paying job or been hired period for filmmaking. I’m just starting out but should I make a short reel to showcase my style and what I can do?
best of luck!
@@brainrose this is so funny looking back. I received this notification because I accidentally signed into this old account lol. 2 years into college, already dropped out of film school to pursue music, switched majors and schools 3 times already. the pandemic was a nasty experience!
Yo man thank you for sharing you experience with this, as I have had a strong passion for making movies for as long as i can remember. Its always been a scary thought not being able to make a life around film making and personally i havent been able to keep up with school either so hearing your opinion on this helps me wrap my head around the whole subject and brings peace to mind. If keen to see what ive got look at Backlash, a movie on this channel which i am most happy with. Keep at it everyone
Thanks glad I could help!
Preach Brian! College is a perfectly viable route for some but it certainly isn't necessary for success. Keep on hustling and working hard man!
Thanks man!
Brian - I love how honest and in touch you are with everything. Your video caught my eye because I've got a 17 year old son (HS Soph) and we've had many talks about Film Schools (USC being one of them). This kid is unique in so many ways... several passions (deep knowledge and love of animals, writing, the movie industry overall). In his off time, that's all he thinks about. He, like you, sorta figured it out early - with his regular studying of the industry, his knowledge level is so high, he wants to sorta jump right into what he loves (not more math, spanish...).
- He's not your typical high school student at all. He had a life saving bone marrow transplant at age 8, he loves sports, but doesn't have the stamina for it, too much school/studying causes him to have headaches, A/B student, average SATs, not a Tekkie, but knows his cameras/camcorders, etc.
Any suggestions/ideas for a kid that really wants to write/direct movies (mostly his own vision)...I'd love to help direct/navigate, but not sure how best to help him? Money is not an issue. Thanks! R
If he feels the need to go to Film School, then he should go. But if he's got most of it already figured out, then I don't see a reason why he'd want to go, I mean everything they teach is available on the internet for free!
I've been doing film for over 5 years and don't feel like going to Film School. Maybe if it was a school like USC I'd go, but my parents are pushing me to go to one these really amateur like Film Schools... We visited 3 of them so far, and after they'd hear what I've done so far Film wise, they all told me and my parents that I'm overqualified for their program... But my parents still believe that I have to go.
It's amazing to see that you're an understanding parent, and I hope your son sees and appreciates that! My thought is, don't push it on him like my parents push it on me. If he wants to go then let him go, if he doesn't it's still fine. As I said above, you can learn everything you need to know on the Internet, and nobody in the Film industry cares if you went to Film school or not (I mean there are literally great filmmakers out there who never even finished High School). I think the fact that most great Directors never went to Film School is telling you a lot about this.
A friend of mine who works in the Film industry once told me: "You can finish High School, start working on sets, do smaller jobs like carry around coffee and stuff like that, meet new people and just work your way up like most people do. Or you can go to Film School, spend thousands of dollars and again end up carrying coffee because you still have to work your way up."
Just goes to show you how unnecessary Film School is, if you already know what you're doing.
The biggest problem with Film School in my opinion is the fact that they're trying to teach you that there's a "right way" of doing things. You can't just teach someone art. Because if you tell 30 kids that this is the right way to do something and this is the wrong way, you'll end up with 30 kids doing the same thing. And that's not good, because there's no originality. The Filmmakers who stand out from everyone else are the ones who are different and make new things that people haven't seen before.
Just my thoughts on all of this, hope it helps, and thank you for being such a reasonable parent! :)
Rena Rice thank you for your comment! Sounds like your son has his mind in the right place. A lot of it depends on what direction he feels is best for him.
I wanted to find my own way so I'm pretty much self-employed. That means a lot of weddings and corporate videos(which is a lot of responsibility and stress) but it allows me to also do my own work and express my own creativity.
Some people rather work their way up, which may be the safer route, but it means years of working to fulfill someone else's vision until you get to a place where you can do your own thing.
Film school would help you in both scenarios, but it's certainly not necessary. It'll teach you a lot, but everything you learn can also be learned by doing or online.
I think you really have to want to go to college to be successful there. Like still want to finish college, just not film school. Right now I'm taking one or two classes a semester at a state school (going for a degree in communication) while I focus on freelancing video. There's definitely not just one path you can take!
It might be good if your son could volunteer on any film sets near where you live. Or even community television. That might give him a better sense if he likes working in the more "traditional" industry.
Hope that helps and best of luck to him!
It's all about connections. How do you expect a small city aspiring film-maker to make it in Hollywood? It's what you make of it. Stop regurgitating what many top filmmakers say. We don't live in the 80-90's anymore where it was easier to get into film making like they did. Stop making it sound easy and bash film school. Everyone says "do not go to film school, it's a waste of time" Well not to be an asshole but those same people are nowhere with their films. Everything is on the internet and if he really does want to learn of course anyone can. But, the thing is unless you're a genius like Tarantino it's going to be difficult. Id at least recommend going for 1 year to know the feel of it. If he does not like it, drop out. There he will meet like-minded individuals who he can collaborate with and help each other to get where they want to be. He can unleash his full potential and even learn things he can't on the internet.
You were brave enough to do that and I admire your decision. I hope you will build your own path and be a great and famous filmmaker(aka director) one day! Follow your passion!☺️
Farida Yusif thank you!!!
Thank you bro this is a eye opener and an uplifted to myself. I appreciate it. Keep up the good work
thank you!
Are you still working on film
Cali's Spoken right now mainly TV and video production with film on the side
Good luck man I hope you achieve your goals
Thanks!
Always follow your gut and it sounds like you did. Good luck in all your endeavors. Thanks for the video
I needed this! I've been thinking alot about dropping out cause what they teach in Film School you can learn on your own via TH-cam. TH-cam is your BEST FRIEND!!
And tbh , the things they teach in Film School are pretty much out dated so & this industry is all about creating a portfolio for yourself and you good to go. No client will ask you about your your qualifications , start your own wave.
yeah and things are always changing. after the basics, much of the knowledge in this industry has to be constantly renewed - new equipment, new technology, new workflows, etc.
I’ll be making a video about this soon. I had the same similar experience except I went to film school and finished it. Strange isn’t it lol. But overall I lost the passion for filming, my very first year was a waste, rules I had known, things I picked up online. On my very first class my professor turned the Tv on, put on a TH-cam video and left the classroom.
(Wordddd?) 🤙🏻🤙🏻
My hopes crushed. I stopped coming too class and had to rethink my life. I talked it over with some other classmates and tried to be more patient. 🤧
Then i stepped into editing and really that’s where I gained the most knowledge.I began editing on premiere being that my only prior knowledge was Windows movie maker. My second year we created our thesis and that was it. Two years of my life... for that. 😑
Film school from my experience just shows you how to make a project, there’s no path to a job it’s the same road with or without it. Freelance, interning, coffee jogs. You have to understand that once your out there that piece of Paper means nothing. Yeah maybe some jobs will think your smart because you have a degree, but that’s some jobs.
In case your wondering 🤔
Now I currently freelance, but at the same time I’m seeking a job for stability just until I get this TH-cam thing working.
Lastly and sorry 😥 I want to help all of you 🤗
Some tips:
•Know the difference between being patient and wasting your time.
•TH-cam the hell out of everything. Peter McKinnon, Justin Odisho, Daniel Schiffer. Try skillshare.
•talk to people
•Have clarity, people in this business don’t want your whole life story or vague idea be straightforward.
*go out and shoot boii, get your squad up and get them bangers out.
Peace 👊🏼
Did u go to USC
Great advice - hoping to see your videos!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I got into USC this year and I'm debating going. It seems silly if I don't go given how prestigious it is and how few people have an opportunity like this. I don't want to be left wondering "what if?" Thankfully, I can afford going without going into debt, but I'm still wondering if it even makes sense to go. It seems that the prevailing wisdom is to not go to film school and just make stuff. I see heaps of really talented kids get rejected while kids whose films I don't like get in. I'm wondering if I will even like most of my classmates, which scares me. I want to find a group of people to help me make films, cause their obviously difficult to make without a solid crew of dedicated people. This is where film school makes sense, but again, I'm having trouble finding many other accepted films that I truly enjoyed. It would be great to hear your thoughts, cheers.
Evan O'Brien it's a really difficult decision and there's really no right or wrong answer. I don't want to ever dissuade someone from going. It just wasn't for me but I don't regret going cause it got me to where I am today. There's also a million different paths to get to where you want to be, so if one doesn't work you just try the next one. The only way I've found to make these types of decisions is to follow your gut. Even if you don't go it's still an accomplishment in itself to get in. Hope that helps
I recently got into NYU Tisch this year and am conflicted about the same issue. Besides the not going into debt thing I feel you man, like exactly,
Evan O'Brien evan, if you ever need a passionate and hard working partner.. I'm here.
Wow, my exact feelings defined. Im going to USC in the fall after it having been my dream since I was five, after working my ass to make and create not just films but groups of people who love it like I do. And thats why I was a bit scared of USC, am I going to be challenged in my character, creativity, person? Yes, its prestigious. But are there going to be people willing to push the business and push themselves beyond 'achievments'. If you end up at USC and you need a couple 'weird ones' hmu.
aye! I will be there in the fall. Glad to find someone in my class who went through the same thought process. I went and visited after I made this comment and I met lots of cool people who seemed very driven. Sounds like you'll be one of them. Where can I watch your films? I'd love to see your work! and congrats!
fantastic video- you have such a good speaking voice; i was thinking of going to film school, but my grades were not good enough and the opportunities are just too limited after you graduate. thank you for this video and best luck to you in the future! :)
Thank you! Best of luck to you as well
You are a very honest and brave man bro, respect to you! One thing I love the most and feel the same as you said is, you are losing your passion in the uni as they are creating your path the way that you don't want it to be. Actually how much of filmmaking can one learn from the uni? It's all about the social, the people net resource. I agree with you so much with that if you really wanna do it, there is always a way that you can learn it and do it, like Spielberg was rejected from his uni. You are great. Look forward to hearing from you. Wordy808 is my instagram.
thank you!
You and I are much alike. You like doing things on your own and not adapting to the norm...that’s me. I never knew I’d find anyone else with the same mindset! Anyways go you! You did good by sticking to your core beliefs about filmmaking.
Thanks! Some of us just work better doin our own thing
Don't worry, the best directors never went to filmschool.
Plenty of them out there!
I mean... a lot of them did tho
George Lucas and Steven Spielberg went to USC
Ryan Coogler.. USC
MKLORD oh yeah, he tried to get into the film school 3 times but went to cal state Long Beach instead (my alma mater. I now go to usc Marshall for grad school) anyway, Steven Spielberg still has ties to usc, I think I’ve read somewhere that he has donated millions to the school.
Thanks great video! I’m trying to find my way and this video inspired me!
Thank you!
Before I give up on making my dreams come true I'ma have to die
don't ever give up
That letter was pretty amazing though. Very passionate. This video was interesting to watch as a high school student who’s interested in potentially going to film school. Great job!
thank you! best of luck to you!
very insightful video. i'm kinda the opposite. i sorta need film school because i don't have much experience or connections. i also thrive better in classroom settings. hopefully, i will part from that need but i feel like it'll be good for me. i'm so glad you found your path and i look forward to seeing your work
Thank you for your comment - I totally respect and agree with you. It's all about finding what's best for you!
This is a really brilliant video. Congrats!
thank you!
Loved this video and hearing from your point of view
Richelle Heina thanks!
When you do happen to make a remarkable film, one that outshines in so many angles, will the audience ask? What school did you graduate from ? Or will they ask, who is this director ?
Couldn’t have said it better!
truth
I appreciate a video like this because it gives a levee into someone that has a desire but was given the wrong school and environment to flourish, but fir me I want to go to film school, not just because I want to be a filmmaker but I want the experience of going to college and learning about films, I dint expect to be someone who loses that passion do to who I am and what I think of film but what I want, I already had that crisis and went though it grew into just more love fir this art, behind the scenes of films do a lot to how you view filmmaking
For sure. The path is different for everyone, you just gotta find which is yours.
Very proud of you. Take your risks and never have too many regrets! The bigger regret is in never trying. Your a fine man, true to your self and your convictions.
restonrose :) thank you
My man. You are a hero dude. Same boat as you. Always sucked at school. Have made dozens of films and work freelance now. 23. Did not make it into the UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS applied three times, shit grades. Now moving to Montreal to do FILM STUDIES. Didn't get into film production. So weird what these schools put you through and what they really value about their filmmakers.. WE'LL PROVE THEM WRONG BRO!
thanks man, good luck to you!
Watching this as 2020 ends, reminds me of the courage we need to pursue the things we want even in this era!
I'm glad it could remind you of that!
I hope you really become a huge filmmaker. Blockbusters and stuff. You would look great in glasses btw, exxtra swag yadig? Thanks for the vid btw, I enjoyed your story.
Thank you! I do wear glasses when I don't have contacts 😬
I loved this video and I completely relate to your experience with high school academics, I have to work so much harder just to recieve average grades, so I know where you're coming from. Ive loved film my whole life and the more i hear about film school it doesn't really sound like it amplifies the students creativity. What would your advice be to someone if their parents were strict about going to college but you're not sure if college is right for you?
sorry for not responding - I'm sure my advice is not helpful 4 years late but I'll still give it a shot. it's hard to manage that expectation of going to college. but ultimately, I think you have to follow what you truly believe is right for you, despite what anyone thinks. you can always go to college later in life, and you can always drop out of college like I did. I think whatever decision you decide(d), I hope it was for you and not anyone else.
Hey Brian, My names Rashaun and like you I've always wanted to be a filmmaker for the majority of my life. USC was always the school I dreamed of attending for this passion also like you but after watching this it sounds like I may very much fall into the same hole that you did and at the end of the day, I really do not want to lose my biggest passion because of how things turn out in college. Thank you for sharing this and opening my eyes because I really was very set on wanting to go there but I don't want to end up under someone else doing grunt work hoping to one day be where I want to be. Best of luck to you and I subscribed and I'm really gonna try hard to support your channel. Thanks again!
Thanks for your comment. It is a good school for some and many are successful afterwards, but it definitely doesn't work for some people
Good luck to you! Follow whatever you feel like you're meant to do and don't let anyone tell you otherwise
that's so cool man, I know you might not see this comment but I actually had a very similar experience last fall, I loved taking photos and I wanted to make it a career so I listened to everyone and went to college for it, almost as soon as I got there I knew it wasn't for me, I'm and independent person and I like to set goals and reach them by myself with creativity and little structure, so I finished the first semester and didn't go back, I've traveled 37 states now and I can confidently say I made the right decision
I'm glad you figured that out so you could follow your passion. Best of luck to you!
Wow! Loved the story bro!
Thanks!
I know I am watching this over a year later, and I am in the same boat! All I have left is my film major, and I already am burnt out by all the general eds. I'm going to keep pushing, but its so hard to stay focused when you know what you want to do and you feel like your time is being wasted
Yeah I feel that. I think the goal is to take what you want to be focused on and find a way to make it your bread and butter
great video! i agree with your decision fully!!! look forward to more videos!
thank you! stay tuned
Good job man. You have all my respect!
Thank you!
I don’t know why your video appeared or why I even clicked on it or even why I watched it to the end, but ultimately it was very worthwhile so thanks for sharing your story
Thank you!
Loved this video!!
Glad to hear it thanks!
You don't need film school to succeed in the film industry, however, the networking connections built from it can really help. The internships can really help. The general ed, as much as you hate it, can really help. How does it help? It requires discipline to learn a subject you don't care about, to do the homework, to study for the tests, to pass, etc. This is a similar kind of discipline you need when working jobs you don't like, or on projects you don't love. In the film industry, there will be a lot of jobs that aren't enjoyable as you try to work your way up to the ones you love. I agree that not everyone needs film school. I think people who skip film school just need to be extra good at self promoting and getting their foot in the door.
I definitely agree. I think it’s more of a question of balancing the benefits over the cost and commitment and each individual’s situation
That's a great story. I thought about this school but many steered me away for costs (the environment didn't appeal anyway). As an accounting major numbers and networking are my primary things to think about. Like you I sometimes worry about the path I could have taken but chose not to when choosing between Cal Poly SLO and CSUN. It was stressful but I chose CSUN and I just have to live with looking over my shoulder thinking about what could have happened if I took the other path.
lightorchestrator thanks for your comment. I think there are good and bad decisions but every decision is the right decision cause it makes you, you.
Can I just ask did you drop out as a freshman/sophmore or junior/senior. You mentioned the amount of GE's you had to take but that is pretty common in your first two years.
Yeah that is pretty common. I was around junior level credits when I dropped out, but I had jumped around between usc and community college. About only 40 credits we're going to be my film classes which is about 1/3 of the degree
Thank you for this video.
you're welcome!
I immediately subscribed after his video wow I have passion in writing and acting/theater but I can't decide whether I should study biology or social science because I will find a job with those things or follow my passion.
the way I make these decisions is often picturing myself at 75 years old reflecting on my life - wondering if I would regret more struggling following my passions or doing something that paid well that didn't bring me joy
I can totally relate to your pain bro. I tried to do film school as well but ending up trying do a film program at a private university. smh worst decision i have ever made in my life. the program wasnt even based on film they had me doing all these other wierd class like learning how to use photoshop and illustrator. i just wanted to film and film only so ik how it feels. my grades suffered because i thought maybe if change my major to something as close to a concentration in film it would make me feel like a film student, but the student body life of film sucked badly, and what other result was better than dropping out.... i refuse to waste my time on things i have very little intrest in.
Tevin De'Caprio it’s tough man, hope it works out for you though
THANK YOU!
I very much related to this video. I have wanted to make films my whole life and I had a similar high school experience. I am currently an incoming freshman at the film school at Chapman University. I have no idea how it is going to go, but your words of wisdom have definitely to reminded me to stay true to myself no matter what. Thank you and good luck furthering your filmmaking career!
Joey Jordan glad to hear it helped, good luck to you at chapman!
How is Chapman going?
The only way you’ll know how it’s gonna go is by going through the whole thing. Stay strong and don’t give up. To work in your own dreams and projects you may have to work on someone else’s dreams and projects first, but it pays off. Good luck!
Thank you for sharing this! :-)
Thank you for watching!
Wow. For the longest time, I've been looking for this video. I'm currently a first-year student at a community college, but I intend to transfer to a four-year university. To be honest, the film program in which I am enrolled has been tremendously beneficial to me; even the teachers have provided me with several opportunities and connections. But more than half of what I've been taught so far can most definitely be learned on TH-cam. In fact, one of my instructors teaches us using TH-cam videos🤣.
Nonetheless, I've always wanted to transfer to a "prestigious" film school, but I'm not sure if it's worth my time and money. The only reason it seems to be worthwhile is for connections and more hands-on filmmaking. I guess we'll see what happens! Good luck to you and your filmmaking endeavors✨loved this video!
Thanks for your comment! yeah pretty much anything you'd want to know is on the internet. Film school can be a good curator of knowledge, cause it's hard to know what you don't know. but if you're dedicated and proactive about always learning, you can succeed in whatever path you take
interesting how USC, one of the best film schools in the world is teaching "Rule of Thirds" and I'm going over how Cooke primes have a slower focus fall off than other lenses and how film solve this problem (which btw is a fact) in high school freshman,
It is kinda it ironic, isn't it
Thank you for sharing your story thank you really
thanks for watching!
so I first watched this video last year and then I applied to SCA this year and was rejected 2 weeks ago. I did have an interview with a USC film professor who was looking over my application and he seemed to like my application, so I'm guessing I might have been rejected because of my grades. USC admissions were insanely difficult this year. I'm thinking of appealing, but do you think it is worth it? And do you have any tips for the appeal? They said 1 page only but I have a big list of things I could say. Still unsure if it's worth it though
I think it's definitely worth a shot. I'd say take all of your thoughts and feelings, put it on the page, be authentic and don't hold back. I actually just made a video about the appeal process here: th-cam.com/video/XusChLHFd6Y/w-d-xo.html best of luck!
I Just Applied To The University Of Oregon & they have a special circumstances area. You are amazing man I feel your passion I didn’t have a life either after goofing off my freshman year I had to sacrifice the next 3 years to even be average.. I feel your pain
Thank you. Best of luck to you
I transferred to a small film school for undergrad, but it was a BFA, so I didn't have to do GE there. Got my GE done at a cheaper school, but film school was the best decision of my life. Now, I'm working on moving to LA.
nice, sounds like you made a good decision. best of luck to you in LA
Hey, I really liked your video, and the sincerity you had about this subject. I was wondering if you have any short films and feature films I could check out. If not, it’s cool, but I’d love to see some of your work.
for sure! my films are on my company's TH-cam account: Movoly
I got kicked out of the most famous and elite academy for film and theatre in my country. In the first semester of the first year. At first it felt so bad i felt like i disappointed everybody that believed in me. I cried my soul out. But after calming down and taking deep breaths, i started thinking for MYSELF. What i wanted to do with my life. There's another university in my country that 60-70% of the people who work in this industry really don't like. Because it doesn't fuck up you social life n your physical and mental health. I didn't want to fuck my health for that. I almost lost my passion and gave up on filmmaking. And as you said not everybody fit in certain places. I think i'll be happy and passionate to study in my new university. Thanks for the video!!!
Ilina Georgieva good luck to you!
You have chosen wisely. There is a lot to be said for trial and error learning. In film you don't have to work for anyone you can create your own content and publish it by your self.
Thanks I think that's the beauty of the time we're living in; that we have the tools to do what was once reserved to big budget studios
Excellent story. Good luck to you.
I went through hell finishing my undergrad degree and totally know what you mean about not being an academic. Universities work for certain type of students, mostly people who are good at memorizing content, and some of us are intelligent in other ways. Good vid bro! :)
Thanks! Yeah it's all about finding what's best for you
Within my knowledges, it sounds like you would be more fitting in NYU tisch right? As you empathize your own creativity and passion, as well as doing your own thing. I am thinking of applying to film schools this year, so far I’ve put USC as my prior opinion, I may be attaching more weights on job seeking aspects, USC will still be a great option for that right? I appreciate you on being honest in your videos they are greattt
Possibly - I didn't get in to NYU so I guess I'll never know
Hey man, I don't care if you reply to me, but I think it is really cool that you are trying to do your own thing. I go to The University of Alabama and I really wanted to go to USC. I just wanted to say, keep grinding and keep making quality content. Good shit man, love the videos. 👍🏽
Eddie O'Leary thanks man I appreciate it!
I didn't bother applying to USC because I knew coming out of high school that I didn't have the grades for it either. I was also in remedial classes, I was diagnosed with ADHD/ADD, yes hybrid diagnosis exist and never took any film classes in high school. Matter of fact I worked in Stagecraft and Theater and liked it. The film program there at my high school started as soon as I graduated. My education was watching a lot of films when I was younger and studying them like PT Anderson, Tarantino, and Kevin Smith. I also read books as well and learning from online. I ended up going to community college to see if I really wanted to pursue film. I ended up doing two short films there. I also was exposed to Truffaut, Lange, and Eisenstein in my media aesthetics class which I thought was very insightful. So without that, I wouldn't have known about earlier films and my passion for watching them. Even before I attended college I had this preconceived notion that college was reading a bunch of books and doing research. From my experience part of it is, but it's also about what you do with that knowledge. It's taking initiative and completing task whether it's hands-on or studying or doing a paper. However, I got caught into the JC life for 12 years going to school on and off, withdrawing, failing classes and having the thought of not being sure if college was for me. I kept going though and I ended up graduating with an AS in TV Production and I am pursuing a Bachelors in Film and Media Studies at Arizona State University (not USC but then again it's a really good school). I am also contemplating Law School. Even though school is stressful at times, I encourage people to finish it. Don't worry about whether you can afford it, it's an investment if you are working within your specialty, doesn't matter if its film or being a lawyer, the only time when it's not an investment is when your in debt not doing what you want to do. But I also encourage self-employment as well and/or trade school or both. Yes, school is not for everyone I agree with Brian, I didn't think it was for me but I kept fighting it and kept going. It's never too late. Some of you will regret it when you are older but some of you might not, but I also think that if there is an opportunity that you should take it. The school will always be there but the opportunities come very rarely. Take initiative and strive.
You have some good points!
Good Luck to you... if you have the passion...DO IT!!
Thanks!
All I have to say is: Thank you so much for making this video! god bless.
thank you for watching this video!
I took several film related classes at SCC and I flunked TCM134 back in 2017...I had recently discovered that I got dropped from the same class in the hopes of improving my grade, so I’m not even sure if it’s worth it anymore. I could find a job as an actor, yet I live in Arizona.
yeah it's hard... but there's no single one way to do it
good luck though!
I know this video is old, but this really spoke to me. I'm going to college for film, it's all I've wanted to do my whole life as well, but after I started college I also started to feel like I was losing my passion for it. Recently I've been trying to find that passion again and remember why I liked making movies so much as a kid. Super relatable story, thanks for sharing!
I'm so glad I could share something you could relate to. Best of luck to you!
It's like looking into a mirror. A ginger mirror. Still a mirror.
I would love to exchange experiances and advice with you about the industry.
I'm glad myself and crew stumbled upon your video this fair evening.
I wish you the best.
Kyle
kyle johnson thanks for watching! i’m glad i️ could be your ginger mirror.
brain rose I hope you see this. I’m currently in the 11th grade living in Southern California and I’m questioning if I want to go to UCLA or USC but I feel so much pressure from school, teachers, family. I can totally relate to you, I’m not as smart like most people in my classes, My gpa is around 3.2 or 2.9. I fell in love with film like the past 2-3 years ago because of my favorite subject is Art. It’s always have been since I was a kid. both are similar to express emotion in the process but different of course. And I know there’s many great directors who didn’t go to college which inspires me to keep myself on track and what’s my next step. I’ve told some of my classmates and they all say you should apply for film schools around here or a community college. A guy told me that you don’t have to worry about college there’s great writers and directors who made it out without a degree. He also told me that it’s stupid if you apply and you already know what you want to, because you’ll waste your time in college. you can save time and money during those years. Which is true. But I’m just in a dilemma I do want to attend to usc but it’s just the classes are gonna get in the way and i don’t want to go through that. I just want to focus on film, screenplay, editing etc. Any advice? 🙂🤙🏼
Thanks for your comment! It's hard to give advice because there's really no single path to succeed in the industry. People who hire you are concerned with what you can do. Whether you learned that from USC's film school or by watching tutorials on youtube, they don't care as long as you do good work and are dedicated to the craft. My best advice is if youre looking for a well rounded education and the college experience, then go for that. If you're more independent and want to figure it out on your own, then that's also an option. You just gotta determine whats best for you. Hope that makes sense and best of luck to you!
brain rose thanks 🙏🏼 it really made a lot clear for me.
I feel you, but I learned something very similar. I went to VFS (Vancouver Film School) and it was an amazing experience, however there was this strong sense of institutional constriction towards what could be possible when what it really takes to make a movie is pure imagination, and a pursuit to make a project.
When you look on the websites for VFS saying 38 alumni’s worked on for hunger games etc. Are they telling the truth? Also do they really have the connections to get you on set after school?
Sam yes many graduates have and do work on all the big shows, in fact they have hundreds of movie posters of mainstream films throughout the school highlighting the alumni who worked on them.
But most of them are animation gaming students, visual effects people.
In terms of Film Production, they aren’t many connections, but I didn’t find it very hard to ease my way in, it just takes some confidence and understanding
Sam do you do kind of have to find the connections on your own, but I preferred that because I like to independently go on that journey
Jared Andrew thank you for your help! I’m definitely thinking about going!
that's a great point!
Yassss you will prove them wrong !!! I love that
looking back at it, it was quite bold!
Man, I hope you go far
Thank you!
I went to USC and hated it! You made the right choice! I absolutely loved your letter!
Thanks yeah definitely not for a lot of people
dang this is solid. im a editor but have been getting into film. when im done with my series of small films i make with my friends can you give me your opinion? ill let you know when its done
yeah send it to me if you have!
when applying for usc and chapman, i felt like it was what i was supposed to do bc everyone in my program was getting in there but it never felt like what i wanted to do. the cookie cutter aspect of film school feels so unauthentic in comparison to the passion behind the craft. thanks for the video bc it made me feel like i wasn’t the only one losing my passion based on my film school experience
thank you for your comment - I think you're exactly right in the way you described it
Film school is important especially for networking ,you get a chance to get a team that you can work with in school or even after, this helps you build each others careers. If you have the chance go ahead and finish, it will eventually pay off at the end.
no doubt it's helpful for networking. the question I hope to raise is if it's worth it
@@brainrose It's a good question. It helps one know that it's not necessary to go to film school to join the industry and that there are very many different channels for one to achieve your goal. I remember I also wanted to join film school but since I couldn't afford it many of the videos watched like this gave me the courage to stop feeling but for myself but rather work hard on my own, and it pay off cause I managed to get to know alot in very little time.But it also showed me that having people to work with can take a very long way too, it helps ease the burden.So for me I think it's worth it.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I appreciate your candor and can totally relate to so much that you said! I've been making films and have known for a while that film-making is 100% what I want to do. I currently go to an art school (high school) for Media Arts. USC has been a dream for me as well but like you, I don't want to be put in a box and want more creative freedom. It also seems that if you don't make more serious/drama films that you aren't taken seriously. ( I subscribed btw :) ) I'm still trying to figure out what to do/where to go..
thanks!! it's hard to make decisions like that. all I know is to follow your gut and work through whatever that leads you to.
Thanks :)
please make a part 2. how did film school work out for you? what are you doing now? so curious...😬
Will be making one soon!
this was so. helpful. thank you.
Glad to hear it!
Dude I got rejected from film school too! I reapplied and got in... but I don’t know if school is for me... everything you said is so relatable. THANK YOU
I'm so glad you found it helpful. There's no correct or incorrect answer to how you break into this industry - just what's right for you.