I am currently a freshman film and art double major at the University of Miami. I am absolutely in love it, but know if i am serious about film (cinematography).. i need to be LA.

Therefore, I am planning on transfering my junior year after I build up my resume and have all my college fun.

I really really want to go to either UCLA or USC. I need some advice on what exactly I should be doing this next year to prepare myself to transfer (film and academic wise)

- what classes to take -- film or general education?
- should i concentrate on my grades or just getting film experience?
- what exactly are these schools looking for in transfer students?

i got accepted into some decent film schools last year (FSU film, UT Austin, Chapman) but honestly wanted to just party. Now I realize how much I just want to do film. I need help.

Thanks so much

quote:

Originally posted by Alexandra Cotoulas:
if i am serious about film (cinematography).. i need to be LA.

It's not as important to be there while you're in college. Just move there after you graduate.

Its just the fact that you spend four years networking, getting to know the area, and taking advantage of all the opportunities in one city... and then moving and having to start all over again.

I understand. I'm just saying need and want are two different things. You shouldn't feel as though you need to be out there.

Although you're right, it would help.

You may or may not "need" la. You do need to dedicate yourself. If you want to transfer into most film school you need to have super high grades and a killer portfolio.

Some schools prefer you to dedicate yourself early by volunteering and showing that you want to be there. They may also ask why you didn't apply there as a freshman and what you've been doing in the mean time.

You don't always need to go to LA. I go to FSU and you spend 3 years networking as a transfer. Your class will split 1/2 to NY and the other to LA. That can be even better because you are now covered in two major film cities.

You may have missed your boat by trying to party instead of film.

I just can't believe you turned down an acceptance from FSU Film because you "wanted to just party."