<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Would love to hear from people who know the film school scene in either place. If I went back to school, or just tried to enter the film/tv workforce in England, I think I would prefer London (because I like to throw my money away! sigh...) but I'm more open to a range of locations in Scotland, either in the Gaeltacht or major cities.</p>
<p>I won't commit to grad school/ film school of any kind until I make the following decision, but part of it includes whether I'd like to focus on producing, directing, or writing my own films and/or documentaries. (Decision gets even more broad than that, but I'll spare the forum.)</p>
<p>Meanwhile, as an entry into something generally broadcast or film-related (Gaelic involvement is a plus), I have the following questions:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Does anyone who went to film school think it wasn't necessary to break into the industry there? Does anyone in film or television think that work experience alone (currently I have NONE behind the camera so please keep this in mind) can get me into the director's chair someday starting off as a simple PA, working towards focus puller and working on up, or do you think film school is a necessity in the UK?</p></li>
<li><p>Any thoughts on Scotland vs. England in that regard/ ease of entry into film/television? (I'd be willing to consider crap parts of England if necessary but would much prefer to hear about nice and affordable ones :D)</p></li>
<li><p>I have a degree from an excellent school in the US with a background in the Middle East, I have profiency in several security languages, and I've worked in government for five-ish years. I've been told by people (in the US) in film and television that this will be a great strength, because learning the ropes in the industry is easy; writing and researching good pieces (my strengths) are the hard parts.
--> When I apply to schools, or if I skip the film school route and try to just enter the industry, will this background help me, do you think?</p></li>
<li><p>Anyone aware of visa matters in this regard? My grandfather (deceased) was born in Scotland, for whatever that's worth, but I'm just a US citizen. It seems pretty tough to get a visa these days.</p></li>
<li><p>No chance at financial assistance, I'm guessing... if anyone knows of any Scottish, Gaelic-related things throwing around money, or Arabic/ Middle East things, in this regard, would be much obliged. I have very little proficiency in Gaelic but a great interest; I do have a good proficiency in Arabic. For what it's worth, I would try to settle in the UK, not learn-and-run. Would be highly willing to commit to a career with Gaelic relevance.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Cheers all
Rory :D</p>
<p>P.S. Would LOVE to hear from colleagues who didn't attend film school at all, who are doing well in the industry. Bonus points if any of them are American (we're not all bad, I promise.)</p>