UCLA MFA 2011 (Screenwriting)

[Theo.]

Hey!

Browsing some of the old topics and found a very helpful thread related to the application process for last year's mfa program.

Since we are rapidly approaching the deadline for 2011 admission, thought it could be useful to open up a forum to discuss questions/concerns about this years mfa application.

So post away, and let's get moving! Less than 2 months to go!

 

[KrisKelvin]

I'm applying to UCLA for screenwriting (among LOTS of others), though I'm definitely not expecting to get accepted.

Though I just registered, I came across this site several months ago and it has been extremely helpful. Hopefully I can provide some pointers of my own concerning how to get into film school this time next year, though right now I'm only hoping for one school to give me a chance.

But yeah, from what I've gathered UCLA will be the most difficult at least when it comes to my particular situation (applying straight from undergrad, not a film major, VERY minimal industry experience). Still, I figure I've got nothing to lose by trying...well, except the application fee lol

 

[Flixwrider]

Hi Guys!

I'm applying for UCLA's MFA Screenwriting program too, along with Columbia University's. I'mk just now beginning to write my scripts, I spent all summer planning and writing ideas down. UCLA is my top choice, but Columbia is looking really good too.

 

[my handle]

Hi fellow UCLA MFA Screenwriting hopefuls,

Look forward to contributing a bit and following everyone's progress through the process.

Cheers and good luck to all!

 

[silverlain]

Hello fellow applicants,

Alright, so question for you all. I'm also applying for screenwriting and was looking over the requirements. The website says:

"Samples of creative writing such as screenplays, short stories, plays, poetry, etc. Please submit by mail."

Does anyone know if there any minimums or maximum page limitations? Is it really free-for-all as it seems to imply? Every school asks for such varied quantity of sample writing that I cannot gauge as to what the appropriate amount is. I was thinking perhaps just the 1st Act of my screenplay (around 30 pages)

Thanks in advance.
Let's get this thing going! >

 

[KrisKelvin]

Hey silverlain,

I have the same question, since everywhere else makes it very specific (10 pages, 20 pages, a full script in some cases). I was actually planning on contacting the department with some other questions (whether it's okay if one of my recs is mailed, what to do if I can't acquire an unopened transcript from an institution where I studied abroad, etc.), and will probably ask this.

UCLA doesn't have that many supplemental materials--in fact, isn't it just the personal statement and writing samples? I know my credentials make it sound like I'm a total amateur, and seeing as UCLA apparently takes people who are already familiar with screenwriting (whereas USC accepts general storytelling potential from what I've heard), I think it would help if I sent a feature script to show I'm familiar with the basics (at least I think, lol).

 

[WillieGreen]

Originally posted by KrisKelvin:
Hey silverlain,

I have the same question, since everywhere else makes it very specific (10 pages, 20 pages, a full script in some cases). I was actually planning on contacting the department with some other questions (whether it's okay if one of my recs is mailed, what to do if I can't acquire an unopened transcript from an institution where I studied abroad, etc.), and will probably ask this.

UCLA doesn't have that many supplemental materials--in fact, isn't it just the personal statement and writing samples? I know my credentials make it sound like I'm a total amateur, and seeing as UCLA apparently takes people who are already familiar with screenwriting (whereas USC accepts general storytelling potential from what I've heard), I think it would help if I sent a feature script to show I'm familiar with the basics (at least I think, lol).

Don't be afraid to send a lot. They'll stop reading whenever they want.

Don't be afraid to send a little. If it's strong, they'll notice.

Bottom line, send your best stuff. Don't send what you think will "impress" them. Nobody knows.

Submit the work you're proud of.



Good luck, future Bruins!

 

[KrisKelvin]

Thanks for the advice, Willie. I take it you're currently in the MFA screenwriting program at UCLA? I'd do just about anything to get in there or USC, though I'm trying to be realistic. But I guess SOMEBODY has to get accepted, right?

 

[WillieGreen]

Originally posted by KrisKelvin:
Thanks for the advice, Willie. I take it you're currently in the MFA screenwriting program at UCLA? I'd do just about anything to get in there or USC, though I'm trying to be realistic. But I guess SOMEBODY has to get accepted, right?

Yeah, I go to UCLA.

Despite the odds, people actually do get in.

No reason it can't be you. Just make sure your voice comes through in your personal statement and samples.

 

[beezy16]

Hi Guys! I'm back! haha! I made it to the interview last year, but did not get into the MFA. I'm doing the Prof Program right now (loving it) and I'm reapplying again. I just wanted to see who out there reapplied and got it. What kind of changes did you make to your application if you did so.

Any advice is well appreciated!

 

[fobshady]

i'm back too. i also made it to the interview last year, but didn't get into the MFA. i'm doing the professional program and reapplying as well.

beezy16, who is your section teacher? i have linda voorhees

 

[fobshady]

willie green,

how is being in the MFA program compared to being in the professional program?

 

[Generallyspeaking22]

I'm also doing the same...I applied last year, interviewed and didn't get in...

I'm doing the Skype version. It's pretty good.

 

[fobshady]

generallyspeaking22,
who do you have for section?

 

[Generallyspeaking22]

Jim Schmermer.

What about you, Beezy?

Hi again..

 

[beezy16]

hey guys,

I have Wendall thomas. she's great! How's Linda?

 

[fobshady]

linda is really great. she explains structure(my weakness) very well and has a bunch of crazy industry stories to boot.

if i get in the mfa program i hope to have her again.

 

[WillieGreen]

Originally posted by fobshady:
willie green,

how is being in the MFA program compared to being in the professional program?

It's full-time so you have to balance other classes with writing, although if you're working while doing the PP, you're already used to the juggling act.

Plus, everyone is gung ho about writing. In the PP, you'll find a lot of people who are just feeling things out, and discover they can live without writing.

 

[silverlain]

Hi guys, quick question:

Is the application due by the midnight between the 31st and the 1st, or the midnight OF the 1st?

Trying to figure out the deadline down to the minute because I live in a different time zone



Oh and WillieGreen,
Thanks for answering my question up there. I decided to send in my first act only with some short fiction that I wrote as they are my best work!

 

[fobshady]

i'm presuming we can mail things out on nov. 1. if not, i'm screwed!