<p>My son is a HS junior and a professional DJ. He also is very talented and experienced in film and video and sound on state of the art equipment. He pretty much runs his HS Tech department and will get outstanding recommendations from everyone from the head of the performing arts department to the computer science teacher. He is looking at Sound Technology and Recording too. </p>
<p>I know he will be "border line" when it comes to grades and SATs so his other abilities need to be considered. I know singers and actors have auditions and artists submit portfolios so I would imagine he could submit a video but I've heard they often get ignored. I was wondering if any of the faculty in these departments would consider allowing him to meet with them for some kind of an informal interview? Does anyone know if that kind of thing happens or must he just rely on someone actually being willing to look at his video?</p>
<p>The artistic review/portfolio and academic review are equally weighted for Tisch, which means that, regardless of how great his portfolio is, he will have to be ‘in the ballpark’ with his academics, too. Portfolios for Tisch do not “often get ignored”, they are a requirement and an important part of the admissions decision. NYU does not offer interviews to prospective students, and I doubt that anyone at Tisch would be amenable to looking at his portfolio and offering advice.</p>
<p>If he’s interested in Tisch, I recommend that he spend some time looking at the website to gain some insight into what the department is like, what the curriculum is, and what is required for admission. A visit to campus, an information session, a tour, and talking to current students is always a good idea. If, after that, he feels that the program is what he is looking for, then he should work on preparing the best portfolio possible and plan on applying. Best of luck to him. </p>
<p>One last thought, there are several excellent film programs across the country. They are all very selective so it’s a good idea, as it is with preparing for any college admissions, to prepare a list of appropriate colleges which fit academically and financially to your student. The arts forum has had some discussions about film schools which may be helpful to you.</p>
<p>Yes..if you read the requirements… judging his video/film submissions will be one of their PRIMARY criteria for admission. I know people who have gone to Tisch and I work for a film production company and I can tell you activities/sports don’t mean much to them unless the activities are related to one of the Tisch programs he wishes to attend, Film/Photography/Art/Acting.. Primarily they want strong academic numbers (Sat/GPA) and a demonstration of talent. So if his academic performance is subpar, he better have a knockout portfolio…good luck.</p>