Hi,
I’m looking to write for TV (sitcoms, SNL, late night, etc.) and I was wondering if anyone knew how good the programs for television writing were at Newhouse, Wesleyan, and BU. I know Wesleyan is more film based, but there are classes you can take for screenwriting and that could transfer over to writing scripts for TV. Newhouse and BU have great T/R/F programs, but do they focus more on producing/directing than they do on writing?
Thanks!
I’m sure that any screenwriting program is easily translatable into TV writing. If you’re interested in comedy writing, you should probably look into some summer programs with Upright Citizens Brigade or Second City, as well. Many strong Film and Theater schools have comedy ensembles. The best background has always seemed to be The Harvard Lampoon and Hasty Pudding Club, whose alumni/ae are very well represented at SNL, et al. Do you have the academic chops for those colleges, though? Emerson is also very good in that field. Columbia College Chicago could be a safety for anyone with your interests. It has near-open admissions, but excellent connections with the local scene (where so many comic writers cut their teeth). Newhouse and BU are both very good, and you can certainly find courses that will support your aspirations, but getting connections in the industry is all-important.
@woogzmama Thank you so much!! I’m looking into a summer program at Second City, which I’m very excited about. UCB would be preferable since I’m in the NYC area, but they don’t seem to have much in the form of a camp for HS students like Second City does. It’s just classes, and they sell out very quickly. My grades are good and I have a lot of EC’s. I have A LOT of legacy at Newhouse so that should help, but as for Wesleyan math has always been a struggle for me and they like well-rounded students. I’m still going to take a chance and apply though since I’ve been talking to their tennis coach. I’m definitely applying to Emerson, and I’ll look into Columbia College Chicago. Thanks again for your help!!
My ds did a semester away at Second City - through the comedy studies program at Columbia College. He had a blast and it helped him decide to pursue improv comedy after graduation.
@need2learn That sounds amazing! Thanks!
While Wesleyan is indeed known more for its film program, three recent popular television shows are created + written by alumni, in vastly different genres:
I think that alone speaks to the fact that Wes can hold its own in the TV department. The strong English program seems to contribute greatly to this TV phenomenon as well. The fact that you’re also in touch with the now-resurgent tennis program… you should definitely apply!
@smartalic34 Did not know about Game of Thrones, Wes definitely is a great option. Thanks for the advice!