DePaul vs Syracuse VPA vs Brooklyn College

[e96]

I’m currently waiting to receive my decision for Loyola Marymount University, but if not accepted, I will have a hard time deciding between the programs that I have been accepted to, which are DePaul University- Directing Track, Syracuse University- MFA Film, and Brooklyn College- Directing Track.

What I’m looking for in a program:
-Opportunities to explore independent and mainstream filmmaking (I think I want to do independent because I find personal stories to be more authentic and fulfilling to create, but not quite sure)
-Strong Alumni Network (job security is pretty important)
-Collaborative environment the fosters a healthy learning environment
-Ability to hone in on cinematography skills as I also want to become a DP before I land any directing gigs down my career path
-Located in a safe area/less crime rates
-Ability to collaborate with screenwriters (I’m not a writer)
-LA quarter opportunity because my ultimate goal is to end up in California.

I’m currently leaning towards DePaul, but my primary concern is location safety/crime rates if anyone can provide advice on this, this would be so helpful! Everyone I’ve spoken with who’s lived in Chicago has implored me not to go for this reason.

 

[catmom]

I lived in Chicago for two years from 2016 to 2018, so I can’t speak of it today. But like every city, there was some crime. However, I rarely felt unsafe. DePaul’s school of communication is located is a pretty busy area during the day, it does get empty at night. But I had a roommate who walked through that area really late at night almost daily because of her commute to work and she never had any bad situations. Chicago is a really beautiful city with affordable theatre and great museums. I loved it, it was my favorite to live and I’d pick it over NYC and LA if their film industry was bigger. I was 18-20 at the time, I’m also a white feminine nonbinary person. If you have any specific questions about Chicago, I’d love to help out!

 

[e96]

Thank you! I’ll for sure let you know if I do.

 

[geminishmemini]

I was between DePaul and Brooklyn College for screenwriting, so I can’t speak to their directing programs but I ultimately chose DePaul because I thought that their course curriculum and opportunities more closely aligned with what I want to accomplish post-grad. There’s gonna be crime in any major city you move to, it’s just a matter of being cautious and aware of your surroundings. I’d say focus on your goals and how these schools can help you reach your next step. Maybe I’ll see you around on campus in the fall!