Awarded a few of the most presitigous scholarships in the world, still rejected from all of programs I applied to

[d_pop21]

I applied to three programs (Columbia MFA Screenwriting & Directing, NYU Tisch, & Stanford Documentary program) and while I have a good academic track record-genuinly not trying to toot my own horn, I have two degrees from a few of the best unis in the world-but all 3 programs rejected me without interview. I am wondering if film is even right for me because this was a huge blow to my self esteem and I don't know anyone personally or professionally who has pursued film school. Really trying to look for answers (in my applications I only had one video uploaded and it was a professionally directed commercial). I wouldn't have applied if I wasn't told that it wouldn't be the primary factor for my application success, so on top of the confusion I'd like to hear from others what their thoughts are. Is it even worth trying for again?

 

[Ranson]

It is very difficult to get admitted to the program you applied for, especially the Stanford Documentary Program. This is a full-award program. Generally, people with film festival resumes are admitted. It is normal to be rejected, so don't be too sad.

 

[compass2k]

I applied to three programs (Columbia MFA Screenwriting & Directing, NYU Tisch, & Stanford Documentary program) and while I have a good academic track record-genuinly not trying to toot my own horn, I have two degrees from a few of the best unis in the world-but all 3 programs rejected me without interview. I am wondering if film is even right for me because this was a huge blow to my self esteem and I don't know anyone personally or professionally who has pursued film school. Really trying to look for answers (in my applications I only had one video uploaded and it was a professionally directed commercial). I wouldn't have applied if I wasn't told that it wouldn't be the primary factor for my application success, so on top of the confusion I'd like to hear from others what their thoughts are. Is it even worth trying for again?

You need some film creds. Either take some lowly film courses (just city college type stuff is ok) and produce a non awful short

 

[Browncapital]

I'm no admissions expert, but it might have been because you submitted a commercial. I believe Tisch and Columbia want a short narrative film (or documentary). Your video submission should showcase or signal what types of stories you want to tell.