USC vs. Wesleyan

Applying to College
1

<p>Hello all</p>

<p>I am trying to decide between USC and Wesleyan and would like some input. At USC, I've been admitted to the Critical Studies program in the School of Cinema-Television with a merit scholarship for half-tuition. I would also me in the Thematic Option honours program. USC is appealing to me because I would have great connections in the film industry after graduation (probably), the university is in L.A. (warm weather, surfing, intriguing culture, etc.), I'd constantly be meeting new people (big campus), the factulty for Critical Studies is pretty sweet, and I'd save money (clearly). However, Wesleyan is also very magnetic for me right now. I think the intellectual environment there would be better for me as I personally believe the academics might be a bit stronger than at USC, I'd have more of an opportunity for exploration (you don't declare a major until sophomore year, and the Film Studies major at Wesleyan requires less courses than at USC--USC requires 13, versus Wesleyan which requires 8), and I think I'd fit in with the kids better at Wesleyan (the alternative culture type kids as opposed to the prepsters and jocks at USC). At USC, though, I think I'd enjoy the football and I could minor in Music Industry. I'm afraid of letting go of USC for fear that I'd never get the opportunity to study film there again. On the other hand, Wesleyan has a really strong film program for a LAC, and if I don't go there, I don't think I'll be as well-informed. Help!</p>

2

<p>I must say, with a major in critical studies, If you want a film career, the connections won't kick in until the graduate program. You might want to take that into consideration. There is an MFA that you can wait for and take at USC which will give you the connections you are looking for.</p>

<p>However, remmember CNTV is the BEST. What I am saying is do not decide thinking about the connections because they will really be stronger until you are in the graduate program. Forget about that and decide which school you will be happiest at.</p>

<p>I am going to USC, btw.</p>

3

<p>Honestly, 99% of the time I tell people to forget program rank and go to the better overall school. This is that 1% exception. USC film is almost untouchable, especially for mainstream film. Go there, you'll be better off in the long run. You'll still have a lot of fun, but you're career will move much faster because you'll actually be in the heart of the mainstream industry.</p>