Well, I've been in my media class for two years now. My media teacher(also the journalism/photo teacher) knows crap about media(filmmaking). Well, we perform a daily news show that is broadcast around the school. In between the news and sports sections we put up commericals that we have sold, shot, and edited of different businesses. Well, I do my share of commericals and I do my jobs on the show, but she treats me very badly and differently than the other students. I'm am the only one in there that knows even filmmaking terms and what not. Even though the terms have nothing to do w/ my question. She allows other students to take home the nice cameras(3 cannon xl1's) and let them use it for their own personal use. With me she says no. I love that class. I love the jobs, and commericals. But I want to have a good year this year and not have stress with the teacher. I'm planning on going to NYU so I don't know if she would give me a recommendation or not. Should I stay or go?

I don't think you should quit the class.

Try to see the situation from her perspective. Is there a reason why she might treat you differently than others? Teachers are human too and prone to bias, prejudice, and all that other stuff. Maybe you flaunted your superior filmmaking terminology knowledge arrogantly. Or maybe she noticed that you didn't take an assignment very seriously (that you felt was too easy and sophomoric). Or maybe she feels threatened by you because you probably know more than her. Or maybe she thinks you're doing great in the class and wants to keep the cameras available for students that need more practice.

If this really bothers you, I would force open the lines of communication about the matter. Go to her office and tell her that you feel mistreated (with respect to borrowing the cameras). Ask what it will take for you to be able to borrow the cameras like other students. What about offering to be a TA and help the students that know less? --that could definitely help you get on her better graces.

This is classic filmmaking. Filmmaking is a very interpersonal experience and learning how to get what you want while keeping everyone happy is an incredible skill to have as a filmmaker. If this class can't teach you any more on the technical aspects of filmmaking, at least it will give you experience in working with others, including your teacher. Corny, but very true.

Also, this is a good experience for getting used to hearing the word "No" all the time. You'll hear it LOTS when you work in Hollywood in the future.

=P