Tisch Asia Interviews

[Dream of a Rarebit Fiend]

Hiya fellow dreamers!

I wanted to start a thread for those who are considering/interviewing for the Singapore program. I, myself, constantly go back and forth as to what I think of the program as well as what I think about shipping out to Singapore.
On the one hand I imagine that it would be a pretty fantastical, inspiring, experience and on the other hand, well, going all the way to Singapore for three years is a little terrifying; not to say that I am scared of living abroad, but, more to the point, I am a bit scared of that 100,000+ dept with the increase of plane tickets/taking a somewhat substantial risk as a second run, proverbial, "guinia pig".

So here are my questions (feel free to answer an to add to them!)

1) Are you choosing a phone interview vs video conference vs actually heading to Singapore?

2) As far as I am concerned: a MFA from Tisch Asia is still an MFA from the NYU film program. Do all of you feel the same way or disagree?

3) If given an offer to enroll in the Fall 2008 class would you accept?

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Anybody still waiting to hear from NYU Singapore?

 

[louvonsalome]

Yeah, AFI's program does sound pretty rad. I applied there too, but never heard back from them, so I'm assuming it's a no-go from that one.

I am living in L.A. right now, on the westside. Aren't you here, too? Also, word up on being a fellow trained actor. I am too.

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Yeah, I live in North Hollywood. We should meet up for a drink before you head out to NYU! (I'm feeling pretty confident that you will get in, since every year numerous people bail out and go to other schools).

 

[krosenbe]

I think I will attempt a trip to Singapore within the next couple of weeks. I think my gut instinct will really sink in upon experiencing the environment.

I am from Sherman Oaks for all of you Los Angeles dwellers.

Louvonsalome,
i hope you get into NYU. New york is an amazing city, i'd be happy to share the best cheap eats and neighborhood gems if you get in.

good luck.

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Ditto Louvonsalome,

I was born and raised in New York City and will be more than happy to share any information you need.

(For example, there is an amazing chinese restaurant - silk road restaurant - on Amsterdam and 83rd - that serves all you can drink wine! And food for two is only $25)

 

[R. Nelson]

Originally posted by Bandar Albuliwi:
Anybody still waiting to hear from NYU Singapore?

I haven't heard anything yet since my interview I only applied to NYU, USC (interactive media) and UCF (visual interactive language). I'm still an undergrad, and I'm pretty new to video production (2 years experience) so if I don't get in, I will just have to work more to beef up up my portfolio.

 

[blueskeyes]

Hey Guys,

Congratulations to all that have heard! Thanks for the kind words Dream. This thread has been incredibly supportive of each other and I know that this will carry over into a great Tisch class (whoever ends up accepting). Alas, I have not heard Virginia's sweet voice of victory yet. I am gonna give her a call later tonight, did she call from Singapore or New York? Anyways, accepted or waitlisted... I'm gonna follow this through to the end fighting. Send me some good vibes!

 

[Dream of a Rarebit Fiend]

Hello blueskeyes,

Just to let you know: Virginia called from Singapore.

1) Hopefully they aren't finished calling

2) Even if they have commenced calling, as you
said, the waitlist is still fair game. I am
sure that there will be quite a bit of
movement seeing as how it's a new program,
most applicants are weighing several top
choices, and the fact that going to Singapore
isn't as comfortable (as in putting yourself
outside of your own comfort zone - which is
where, I believe, you have the most room for
being yourself and exploring the world) a
choice as, say, LA or NYC.

I also feel that passion and drive pays off. - I'll send some positive thoughts in your "direction".

Keep us updated and best regards!!

 

[Dream of a Rarebit Fiend]

Oh, and a quick note to those considering the grad school vs. working your way up from boom mic to camera to (hopefully) director:

The beauty of an MFA in film production is that you can teach at a collegiate level (and I am sure a degree from NYU wouldn't hurt either).

Good luck with all of your decisions!

 

[louvonsalome]

Thank you Bandar, krosenbe! Any information about cool restaurants/fun spots in New York would be most welcome! And thanks for all your well wishes. I hope this application process works out for us all.

Bandar, we should definitely meet up. I'll private message you to arrange more details, but I have an acting class in North Hollywood on Sunday afternoons, maybe we could grab drinks afterwards?

 

[spineless]

I just received The Phonecall from Virginia (so indeed the calls are being made in a period of time).

I feel honored, but I have to decline, as I have already made up my mind and chosen Columbia. So, I guess that's good news for the waitlisted people.

Congraulations to EVERY ONE of you, for making it this far, you all seem dedicated to an artistic vision, but -more importantly- are extremely supportive and helpful to each other.

 

[duders]

The beauty of an MFA in film production is that you can teach at a collegiate level (and I am sure a degree from NYU wouldn't hurt either).

This isn't necessarily true. A lot of teachers in film school do not have MFA's, some don't even have degrees. However, most of them do have tons of experience.

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Duders,

In some instances, experience does make up for lack of an MFA (hence, if you are a somewhat accomplished filmmaker).

But in more cases than not, an MFA degree will give you a heads up to teach an introductory Film Production course rather than someone who only holds a BA degree and who has directed a few shorts. I think that is what spineless was referring too.

Best.

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

And the people you find with a lot of experience teaching usually hold an MFA or terminal degree in their field.

 

[krosenbe]

having this option may prove to be harder than not even having the option. oy!

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Still struggling with your decision Krosenbe?

 

[krosenbe]

I am going to schedule a flight out there. Quite drastic, but, I really need to see it.

I just spoke with an admissions rep about the process of moving to Singapore which seems rather daunting. We all have a lot to think about.

How is everyone doing?

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

Krosenbe,

When do you feel like heading out there?

 

[krosenbe]

Bandar,

I am hoping to go out at some point within the next few weeks. Just emailed Virginia to figure out a convenient time. Although, it is costly I think it is worth it. As many of you said, gut feeling and gut impression is essential.

 

[Bandar Albuliwi]

I may actually head out there myself to check it out before making any drastic decisions. I have a ton of American Airlines miles.