Vanderbilt University - The Department of Cinema & Media Arts

My recommendation: don't go to Vanderbilt just to major in film. There are many more schools out there with much more robust and lively film departments than Vandy's. If you'd like to take on Cinema & Media Arts as maybe a second major or minor (like what I did) then it could be the perfect.

That being said, the professors are top notch and the courses are extremely interesting. I learned so much in my undergrad career even though I only decided to do a CMA major starting in my junior year (I already had two other majors at the time and the department was very helpful in making sure I met all grad requirements.)

The program is split pretty much down the middle when it comes to theory and production. So if you hate lectures but love being behind the lens (or vice versa), probably not the right fit for you.

Being a top private school, Vanderbilt costs $$$$$. Luckily, the school has a wonderful GRANT assistance program that helps students with financial need afford tuition with no need to repay loans. But, if you and/or your family are paying out of pocket, geez Louise. It's a lot.

Again, the department is very small, one of the smaller majors at Vanderbilt. Which has its pros and its cons. You get to know your professors well and likewise, they'll help develop your voice as a storyteller over those four years. But at the same time, the alumni network is comparatively miniscule which can be a hindrance in career assistance and mentorship upon graduation.