I’ve been looking at colleges with film production majors and many of them require a video portfolio. But, other than length, they don’t give much of a guideline regarding what they expect in a portfolio. Should it be a collage of differ videos from my high school television show or should I try to create and film a short video with a story this summer?
I suspect that they would prefer the latter. They are likely looking for your best effort at an expression of creativity and/or passion about filmmaking. One that also includes as many elements of your creative input would be best. For example, many video supplements are written, filmed and edited by the applicant themselves. If that is not possible… focus on your strength (like writing - for example) and credit you and others accordingly. In a field of 1000s of applicants, each vying for a limited # of spots,film school admission committees are seeking to admit applicants with an unique voice, point of view, creative take, etc. Your goal should be to use the video supplement to be a calling card allowing you to rise above other applicants somehow. If you go to youtube, you can search for sample video submissions that succeeded in helping an applicant gain admission to USC, UCLA, NYU, FSU, etc.
Good Luck