UIUC vs. UIowa? (Film, screenwriting, etc.)

<p>I was headed to NYU, but I applied to LSP not Tisch, so it wasn't worth my money. Right now, I'm specifically interested in preparing for an MBA/MFA. I think I want to concentrate on both production and screenwriting, so lab classes and workshops are highly important to me.</p>

<p>These universities are SO BIG that I can't compile all the information I need to make a sound judgement, so I'm asking students directly for their input. I know UIUC and UIowa aren't top schools to study film, but I'm looking to transfer to Tisch or continue to grad school and apply to USC Stark or the like. I think I still have the option of going to UMiami, and I know they have more full on programs specific to film, but I don't know if you can start classes sophomore year or declare film your major sophomore year. It looks like it's down to UIUC and UIowa.</p>

<p>Things to be aware of:
a) I am not going into any STEM majors (though I may do digital art and computer science).
b) I am most likely going into business and/or creative writing or communications (radio, television, film).
c) I've been admitted to Iowa honors, which is a plus for me to go there rather than UIUC.</p>

<p>I appreciate any information and opinions.
Also, how is the film scene at each of these universities? I know Iowa has Bijou, SVP, Arts Enterprise, and it seems more creative productions (KRUI, Cab, Scope), but UIUC has Ebertfest, IFV, and VAMP, BCEC, and Star Course. Anyone involved in these?
And most importantly, how is UIUC English, creative writing, and communications and media in comparison to Iowa (I know Iowa's cw rep is legendary, but in case I do choose UIUC, I want to make sure UIUC's rep is respectable in the areas of study mentioned above).</p>

<p>Misc: Opinion on facilities and equipment (cameras, gyms, theaters, etc.) and atmosphere (gardens, parks, architecture, etc.)?</p>

<p>For Iowa students: Is anyone dorming in Daum? Is anyone doing the Living-Learning Communities?</p>

<p>Lastly, is anyone involved in literary or news publications at UIUC or UI?</p>

<p>Thanks :)</p>

<p>I am assuming that you know this…</p>

<p>The undergraduate creative writing program at Iowa has competitive admissions and you do not apply for it until you have completed at least 60 hours and the prereqs. Are you ok with possibly not getting in?</p>

<p>I’m aware.</p>