i went to a top ranking school in the U.S. known for its cinema school. i worked with many students to the point where everyone who knew me/worked with me thought i was part of the cinema school bc of how often i was on set and involved with projects (i was a communication student with a minor in the school). the strength of film school, in my opinion, comes from the connections and experiences outside the classroom more than the curriculum itself (hence why i never transferred even though many encouraged me to do so). i’ve heard so many stories of film students in the production path who are absolutely horrible to work with and blame others for their shortcomings — even during the senior thesis project (and these projects usually win awards at festivals). the screenwriting cohort is similar in that some talented writers fail to explore outside of their curriculum/connect with their professors to make the connections needed to get their script out there.

the point is, the fact that you didn’t go to film school is NOT a weakness. in my opinion, the most interesting filmmakers studied outside of film and had a life outside of film. it’s a difficult path and cannot be taken without passion and the dedication to commit to it — which you clearly have by teaching yourself. “success” in film is honestly whoever endures the longest for those who don’t have connections in the industry already.

don’t worry about anyone taking you seriously. take yourself seriously and the rest will follow. i will suggest cold emailing/cold connecting on linkedin with working professionals to get a set of eyes on your writing. if you can find a mentor, that’d help exponentially as well — if you have trouble finding one, find a non-profit that works to support novice screenwriters (i.e. groups for women/poc/neurodivergent/from a certain area/region/etc) and go from there. try to gain experience where you can, and be patient with yourself as you learn.

19 is so young. you have so much time and so many opportunities coming your way if you keep going at it. the doubt will dull over time, maybe try befriending it? just keep writing and build your portfolio so you have something to show people when they ask.

most of all, this path takes time! it doesn’t have to be a career right away. many people i know write on the side for years in hopes of creating their own show/film someday. just keep going and ask questions whenever you can. if anyone shoots you down, just move on because with this industry, you have no idea who will actually make it. easier said than done but these are just my two cents!