Howard University - Cathy Hughes School of Communications

Overall, I loved my Howard film experience and wouldn't trade it for the world. Above all, it trained me to be scrappy and gritty, which are valuable traits to have in such a cutthroat industry. That being said, I think Howard needs to do more to bring its film school up to the level of other programs. Howard has a long list of notable alums, and I'd be willing to bet that more than half of them are successful entertainers and filmmakers. Yet, the school doesn't pour nearly enough money into its film and fine arts programs compared to its business school, for example. If you're looking to expand your network, learn how to grind with limited resources, collaborate with peers that look like you, and just get a basic understanding of how film works-- go to Howard. But if you're looking for a hardcore bootcamp that's going to make you into a technical master by the end of the four years, maybe try another program. It's hard to endorse or oppose Howard one way or the other-- ultimately, it's about what serves your needs and interests, how willing you are to pursue opportunities outside of class, and how much you can afford to pay.

The Howard University TV/Film Production program is one I would recommend to any young black filmmaker trying to discover their voice while surrounded by like-minded individuals. The program is what you make it. If you want a well-rounded and rigorous experience, then you can have that by putting yourself out there and creating projects with your peers. But if you want to coast by doing the bare minimum (showing up to class and doing the work), then you can do that as well. Howard was my first and only choice when it came to schools because I was aware of what the school had to offer. And although it was a bit intimidating at first, I was able to find an abundance of opportunities, while also building upon my filmmaking skills.