Advice for Film School Students (From Someone Who’s Been There)

I graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design in 2011 with a degree in Film and Digital Media. Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known while I was still in school. If you are in film school now or thinking about going, here is some honest advice from someone who has been in your shoes.

1. Figure Out What You Want to Specialize In

The most important thing is to figure out what part of filmmaking you love and get really good at it. Maybe you are drawn to cinematography, editing, directing, sound design, or writing. Focus on that.

I tried to learn everything: cameras, editing, directing, writing, even photography. That approach made me a jack of all trades, which helped when I moved into corporate video work. But by graduation I did not feel I excelled at any single skill. If I could do it again I would still explore different areas but spend most of my time mastering cinematography.

2. Get On-Set Experience Early

I did not work on a professional film set until after graduation. That was a mistake. If you can land PA gigs or student shoots now, go for it. Real set experience will show you the long hours, the hard labor, and the chaos, and it will help you decide if this life is right for you. You might love being in the middle of all that energy or you might discover you prefer postproduction. Either way, you will learn quickly.

3. Build Your Network

After graduation you are on your own. Finding gigs is tough when you do not know anyone. Your classmates are your first industry contacts. Make friends, stay in touch, swap favors, and share leads. Those relationships will become your crew, your collaborators, and your clients down the road.

4. Make As Much Art As You Can

School is the last time you will have creative freedom without worrying about bills. Film your own shorts, experiment with lighting techniques, edit passion projects. Anything that keeps your creative spark alive. Those projects will beef up your reel and remind you why you fell in love with filmmaking in the first place.

Good luck out there. Film school is what you make of it, so jump in, stay curious, and keep shooting.