Columbia v. Northwestern v. UT Austin v. USC

College Search & Selection
1

Hey guys!

this is like my 10000th post but I’m still dazed and confused. I like all the schools, but at this point, I’m most concerned with fit/happiness.

I want to be a TV screenwriter rn (it could change but I’m pretty passionate) and value a well-rounded education so that I’ll have something to actually write about.

Cost is a consideration but not the biggest concern. Though I think everyone can agree it might not be worth it to pay full price for a humanities degree when I could pay instate at UT Austin, my parents are more than willing.

I’d like to double major or major-minor in Econ and film. At USC I’d major in narrative studies and minor in whatever the heck I want since they literally have everything.

I’m mostly concerned about Columbia’s competitive atmosphere and the core kind of restricts what I can do. USC and Northwestern are much better at this. Just not sure if I can pass up such a great offer. I’d also like to go to grad school and get an MFA though maybe I’m naive, but I’m hoping to secure some kind of funding for that.

Desires: happiness, ability to take a variety of courses, not being in the middle of nowhere, inspiring classmates, not that into partying, close-knit relationship with professors, people who want to be change-makers

LMK what you think!

2

USC has a great program for writing for film & TV. THe major is very selective. Did you apply to this screenwriting program at USC ?

What is the annual COA for each of your options ?

3

I came here intending to say go to Columbia, but given your desired career path I think USC would be the best choice for it. But consider on the other hand that you’re going for a low-percentage career. There are few jobs and a lot of people want them. Have a backup plan is all I’m saying. Would you be comfortable teaching high school English, or writing ad copy? Those are outcomes more likely than getting to the top of the TV writing profession.

4

Every student in USC’s Writing For Film & TV major receives internships & job offers. Graduates of this small specialty program at USC are in high demand.

If you did not apply to this program, then it may well come down to COA for each school.