<p>I'm in a really big dilemma here. Basically, I have a HUGE passion for filmmaking. In fact, there's nothing else I can imagine doing for the rest of my life. So, after applying to colleges and getting the results: I got into UCLA (as undeclared) and into NYU (as film major) and I have to pick between the two. Considering I live in LA, UCLA is very cheap to me, since I get around $17k in grants/scholarships/etc and only have to pay $6000 first the first year. However, NYU costs about $50k/year and I have to put out half (or everything on loans).</p>
<p>Frankly, I love LA because I've lived here all my life, but I'm not sure whether or not I should stay here and go for third year film at UCLA or go to NYU and do all four years as a film major. In terms of working in the business, I don't know which will benefit me the most. I know NYU is a one of the top film schools and it's tough having to turn it down just because I want to stay in LA and because of financial issues.</p>
<p>How much in the way of film-making classes would you take your first two years at NYU? Could you transfer to NYU as a junior and do the more intensive and directly applicable classes then? Or by then you might find that UCLA is just the place for you, and you don't want to transfer.</p>
<p>I can't speak to the quality of the programs at all, but surely more films are made in LA than in New York, and a lot of getting jobs is about networking. It seems to me the networking possibilities would be greater if you stayed in LA. Plus, likely more options for internships, etc.</p>
<p>I don't plan on doing grad school. It never appealed to me and I honestly think it won't help me in the long run since that's not the road I wanna take. Right now, I'm thinking more towards UCLA because of my future plans. And after all, NYU is pretty expensive.</p>
<p>I heard NYU makes more artsy films while USC and UCLA in the east coast focuses more in hollywood type movies. I don't think that's necessarly true, but that's what i've heard.</p>
<p>Personally i would choose UCLA because it would be cheaper for you and UCLA has good film program too.</p>
<p>UCLA sounds like the best option for you. Like NYU, UCLA has a world renowned film program and should take you far.</p>
<p>That said, you must realize that each school produces its own type of film-makers and that there are some differences in the sensibilities of east coast and west coast film producers.</p>