Calling all Cali college experts!

State Forums
1

<p>Hi, everyone. :) I'm new to CC, but from everything I've heard and read about it, most posters here seem to be really insightful and helpful. So, could you college experts help me decide where to apply?</p>

<p>I'm going to be a senior in HS next year. I am a very strong student (3.85 UW GPA, 2150 SAT) and my extracurriculars show passion and dedication.</p>

<p>I'm looking for a school in California only, with either: 1.) A strong film program 2.) A strong creative writing program or 3.) Ideally, both, of course</p>

<p>I'm also looking for a school with an artsy/alternative type of culture. Preferably not a big school either, although I am considering Berkeley.</p>

<p>Right now the schools I'm considering are: 1.) Chapman 2.) Berkeley 3.) CalArts 4.) San Francisco Art Institute 5.) Pitzer 6.) California College of the Arts</p>

<p>Any thoughts on these? Any other suggestions that I haven't thought of yet? I am definitely serious about my art and really like the idea of a conservatory, but my biggest concern about the art schools is their usual lack of financial aid. :-/ Chapman seems like a great choice, but I'm not sure it has the arsty/alternative atmosphere I'm looking for. Any advice would be great! Thanks!!</p>

<p>P.S. I'm not considering UCLA or USC because I've been on their campuses tons of times with friends and relatives, and I can tell they aren't for me despite their film programs.</p>

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<p>Your academic statistics are excellent and certainly would get you admitted to just about any school you apply to for most majors. I think with film and art though the crucial part of your application will be your portfolio. If finances are a major problem and financial aid is not forthcoming from the schools you are considering you might want to look at CSU Long Beach. I have heard they have a well regarded film program but it is an impacted major on an impacted CSU campus so if you are not from their service area you will need a really outstanding portfolio to be admitted. CSUs are not cheap but are somewhat less expensive than UCs and a lot less than private colleges.</p>

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<p>Loyola Marymount</p>

4

<p>I would agree, check out Loyola.</p>

5

<p>Yes, definitely check out LMU for film</p>