Admission Requirements... Help!

[Aory]

I'm currently a junior in high school and have not taken any type of film due to my core classes and my time taken up by marching band (which I have intentions on quiting). I am put down by my peers about my chances getting into the film program at UCF.

So, question-wise: What are my options with only about 2 years left of high school?

 

[El Mateo Verde]

Start Your Reel. Do that by filming something you are interested in and you might already be involved in. My approach was to ask a local band playing in my hometown if they wanted any film of their performances. Heck, I was already going to be there; why not combine the two things. If you stick with marching band, bring your camera with you to get some tape of the shenanegans you and your friends get into. Eventually, you will get a better understanding of what works and you will have something to present. Ultimately, invest in yourself!!

Good luck

 

[sfhdweb]

i agree with El Mateo Verde

 

[GabrielM]

Aory,

What is your main interest in filmmaking? What are your goals, dreams at this time?

You mentioned that you didn't take film classes, but you didn't express clearly what your plans are... I guess we're all assuming you want to be a director... Is that right?

If you're still in high school, maybe your film knowledge is limited. Although getting a camera and start shooting is usually sound advice, I think that the trial-and-error learning approach is overrated today because students lack the discipline and commitment to analyze their mistakes. Furthermore, without the basic knowledge and understanding on the many facets and phases of filmmaking, students don't have the evaluation skills to critique their work.

I created the website www.elementsofcinema.com that surveys the many facets in a film. You can read lessons about cinematography, editing, directing, producing, and screenwriting. We have more than 50 lessons, and they are all FREE. The website is updated weekly, so feel free to request subjects that we're missing.

I hope you enjoy it.

Best,
Gabriel

 

[JacksonFilms]

First off, relax. You're a junior in high school and at least a year away from committing to a school or a program. The best thing to do is stay focused and keep your grades up so you can get into the school of your choice. Do your research and college visits and see what's out there.

My experience and observations are that universities tend to load up freshmen with core/general education classes the first year and then get into the department class rotation starting the second year. So you've got some time to work with.

As for your classwork options, take an art class or two, english lit, writing. A industrial arts (shop) class can also be helpful. If you know how to build stuff, you'll be a rock star in the department.

Good luck.

Tim Jackson,1st year MFA
School of Film, Ohio University
Nontraditional Films Blog

 

[One_Girl_Revolution]

- Take a film course at a community college in the summer.
- Focus on literature and visual art courses in high school.
-Volunteer at film festivals
- if required by the university, think about taking SAT prep course a year in advance.
-join your school's photography or other media related club. Team up with people who are aesthetically minded like yourself.
- Buy a cheap video camera and start making films.