I’m in need of some help. I am very interested in the Tisch Film and TV program. I believe that my grades are good enough to the point where I will be accepted into the program. I talked to the head of film and television and she talked about how she liked my writing and portfolio. I was looking at this program because I am interested in animation. However I am very nervous to go to tisch if I’m accepted because I don’t know much about filming and using the equipment that I know I will have to use. I wanted to know if anyone knew how much tisch teaches you when you come in as a freshman, or if you have to know how to do certain things coming into the program. I would like to be a filmmaker and an animator but I want to know if I’m going to need to understand how to work equipment and editing software when I come in as a freshman. I want to learn to the best of my ability but I don’t want to start with a very big disadvantage. Please help me!
You don’t need to know anything. They will teach you everything. I have a friend who went there and she has had an amazing career in film – attending film festivals around the world, going to parties with famous people, producing movies, etc. She knew nothing about the industry or equipment before majoring in film. She did not focus on animation, but if you are interested in both animation and film, then NYU is a great place to be.
I went to NYU Tisch Summer film program without knowing a thing. I left with a whole portfolio and new set of skills with the camera, editing, screenwriting, etc – after a short month. Im sure that you will learn more than you can imagine in 4 years! If you don’t mind me asking, how did you talk to the head of the program? Did they contact you directly about your portfolio?
Thanks and good luck (I wish you the best)!
I went on a college visit and met her while I was visiting and touring tisch. She talked about how she remembered my portfolio and that it was a good thing that she remembered it. I’m not sure I will get in so I don’t want to get my hopes up so its just a waiting game until April 1st now.
My roommate got into Tisch for Film & TV Production with no portfolio or prior experience, so don’t think you need to be an expert in everything to get in or do well in Tisch.
@tzaz01 If you don’t mind me asking, do you know how you got in? And if not can you tell me a little about your application and essay? And do they look for people with more or less film experience? Thanks that willed be helpful if you did. I’m looking to apply next year for the summer program.
@bluecat246 Truthfully, I didn’t expect to get in because I had no prior film experience and opted not to include a portfolio. I believe it was my essay that helped me stand out because I told a story. I think it helps to share a personal experience that shapes YOU and makes you a unique storyteller – less about your film credentials and more about you as an artist/individual. If you are involved in any other arts or have other interests then I would mention them. My essay was heavily based on my experience as an actor and essentially how it molded me into a storyteller/filmmaker. It was the best summer of my life and I wish you the best with your application. Good Luck!
P.S If they do allow you to submit a portfolio (and you feel good about it) then add it to your app! It could help but it definitely won’t hurt you if you don’t (-: