I am BACK after a period of inactivity on the site and I have a query

I'm in a Central California community college and wish to transfer to a film school, here's my list right now:

CSU Long Beach
San Francisco State University
San Jose State University
UCLA
UCSC
Chapman
USC

I'd like to whittle this down, does anyone have experience with any of these schools and wish to give some insight? Any that I should just cross out immediately? Thank you!

Write a good script.
Hire a crew.
Hire actors.
Film that script.

Walla, you're a filmmaker

Whilst the above is also true, if you're fortunate enough to be able to afford a top film school, go for it.

Just make sure you make the most of it and remember to network.


I don't know the reputations of all those places, but UCLA and USC ten to be well represented in the Industry.

I'm working on a short right now but I think for me school will be the way to go, considering I'm a transferring student and will be saving a whole lot of money that way.

You'll save yourself a whole lot of money by using the internet.  There's plenty of resources out there, and guess what?  You don't even need to leave your house.

If you want to get your hands on equipment, that's a different story.

I think if you've got the right attitude, film school should definitely pay off. You'll have access to some substantial resources and hopefully be amongst good company. As Rick mentioned, UCLA and USC have some of the best reputations in the country.

Unfortunately, I couldn't tell you what the right attitude for film school is. I just know some people have it and get a lot out of it. Personally, I learned more about filmmaking from being on set and more about writing from posting on this site. Depends on what kind of person you are, I expect. Film school costs money though, so consider your options carefully.

I understand that Chapman, while lesser known by the public, has a great reputation among industry insiders, and the program is very hands-on from Day 1.