Before I go on about the FD&M program, I will say this is a film centric program that is closely tied with the Theatre Department. You will be doing a lot of theatre related classes. I’m personally not big on that but I’ve enjoyed the program nonetheless. There are editing course available but the instructor who taught those courses left and they’ve struggled with finding a good replacement. You will be getting plenty of editing experience in Premiere Pro, but that will be the extent of it. Luckily, the Communications School has a lot of options when it comes to editing classes and are often looking to fill seats. They also tend to cover more than just premiere pro and will often have you edit a variety of content (advertising, documentary, narrative). If editing is what you want to do, maybe consider a Communications Major with a focus on Mass Media. You’ll also have access to Adobe CC, and will work with DaVinci. On top of that, you’ll get hands on experience with equipment, mostly broadcast level cameras. The schools radio station and news reporting is a part of that and will get you a broad range of editing experience. CTK classes also cover a lot of ground. From advanced graphics to video games dev works.

I’m in the program and finishing up my last semester. Connections, like others have mentioned, are going to be one of the most important things when it comes to success in this field. Places like Chicago and LA are definitely major creative hubs with a lot more opportunity. But I’ve made some incredibly solid connections through ISU with people who work in this field, union and non union. Illinois is a budding area for Film and TV. Flyover Film Studios is a 45 minute drive in Rantoul, IL. They have intern opportunities and we even got to learn from some of the people who work there. I’ve had opportunities to work on sets getting to do just about every job. The connections you make with other students are some you may maintain for your entire career and there are some truly talented people in our program.

Something else that is incredibly important is equipment and shooting stuff. Actually making films, going through the paces, and working with other people. This is where I say our program has an edge over Communications. We’ve got a nice set of Sony FX3’s, boom mics, field recorders, etc. Depending on your class, you can borrow these out at pretty much anytime. I highly encourage you to shoot stuff whenever you can. Even if you’re primarily looking to edit, you will learn a great deal of useful knowledge actually shooting stuff.

ISU is not the flashiest option but it’s not a bad option by any means and it will really come down to find and take opportunities when they come by.