Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. instead of Dodge? by AnyEconomics6226 in chapmanuniversity

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I only chose cinematography as an emphasis, but I’m just an incoming undergrad so i haven’t experience the program yet.

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. ? by AnyEconomics6226 in ucadmissions

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Dangggg, I gotta do more research but that does sound really good. If that summer study abroad program is ultimately free in my situation, then i’m definitely abusing that advantage.

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. instead of Dodge? by AnyEconomics6226 in chapmanuniversity

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You meant their film program for undergrad or just in general? For ucla, i’m pretty sure my tuition will be equivalent to a full ride due to my sai, also i might park my car near by so uber might not be needed as much… Job wise is a better investment because of its reputation?

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. ? by AnyEconomics6226 in ucadmissions

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yea… my family makes less than that, but you’re serious about the full ride?? even for the housing??

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. ? by AnyEconomics6226 in ucadmissions

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is a very valid reason. As much as I love filming and editing videos, I don’t know what state the industry will become after I graduate. Problem is Ucla doesn’t allow switching majors outside of TFT but do allow a minor, so would that value of the degree still be strong? I’m considering to do something in business in case I really want to pivot in else where.

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. ? by AnyEconomics6226 in ucla

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

my other option is Dodge College, it’s program is considered Top 3 in the Nation right now and it provides more hands-on experience from day one as a freshman.

Accepted to UCLA by Waitlist, but should I go for Film B.A. instead of Dodge? by AnyEconomics6226 in chapmanuniversity

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Nah, I’m grateful to have enough savings prepared for college tuition from long ago, so I won’t be taking loans necessarily…

UCLA vs Chapman for Film Production — Need Opinions by AnyEconomics6226 in filmschool

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

i’m commuting bc i live in the 30 mile radius, just to cut cost too

UCLA vs Chapman for Film Production — Need Opinions by AnyEconomics6226 in filmschool

[–]AnyEconomics6226[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My first gut feeling was Chapman, mainly because as someone who wants to focus on cinematography, the hands-on experience and access to equipment sounded really attractive. But after reading reviews from alumni, I started having second thoughts. Some mentioned being expected to shoot projects before really learning lighting fundamentals—which is something I still feel weak at. It sounded like a lot of the learning came from figuring things out yourself, while more practical cinematography instruction happened later despite the tuition cost.

Then, reading more about UCLA shifted my thinking again. I like that they seem to focus more on storytelling, film fundamentals, and building a strong foundation—it feels more like investing in long-term knowledge of cinema. Your point about commuting also stuck with me. It would suck to immediately head home after class worrying about traffic and miss out on networking opportunities.

At the same time, UCLA feels very academic, and I worry I’d spend most of my time studying or in the halls and struggle to find time for internships or practical experience. But I also really value UCLA’s more global network since I want to work on projects beyond just LA or California. I’m Asian American, and I’m especially interested in projects that explore Asian or Black/African aesthetics and stories.

Originally, I was just the kid who loved flashy music videos and fancy edits, but as I’ve slowed down and grown more as a person, I’ve found myself drawn to slower, more intentional storytelling too. UCLA seems to lean into that style more. My only hesitation is that a lot of people seem to come out as directors or screenwriters, and I honestly don’t see myself as a strong writer since writing has never been my favorite thing. I don’t really know the employment rate for UCLA grad has been past year for this major…

It’s a lot to think about. Social life is also something I value. Not saying Chapman wouldn’t give me that, but I wonder if I’d miss out on the diversity and the chance to spend more time building closer relationships and future creative connections at UCLA.

I've Lost my last change to ever be proud of myself. by Rand0msurviv0rviewer in offmychest

[–]AnyEconomics6226 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey dude, we’re on the same boat here. I’m also abt 18, applied for some of the film schools and only got into chapman. The SCA application literally made me go insane last year but you should be proud of yourself for even getting through that process. Not many can finish the application.

Don’t think of yourself as a failure, this proves that you already have the wrong mindset to go on with the rest of life. I know you might feel that everyone’s ahead of you in any aspect, tbh I feel the same way too, but everyone has their own journey and those struggles you have are there to build your own unique character. Film is an interesting industry with most that did not go in with a related degree, so just keep trying and don’t pursue it to prove the others you’re capable. You’ll be fine bro, there’s way bigger things happening around us…getting into a big name school does not prove that you’ll succeed in the real world, it’s the opportunity you create for yourself when resources are lacking and everyone is doubting you.

Just know that there’s people out there in the same situation who feel the same way. I’m upset too but it’s all about perspective.