So you Want to Go to Film School and Get a Job?

May 16
18:06

2008

Kristin DeAnn Gabriel

Kristin DeAnn Gabriel

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Learn just what you need to know and get a job too. When it comes to learning about the entertainment arts, you should always seek the schools that place more than 72 percent of their graduates into good, solid industry jobs. And make sure the school offers apprentice programs for the entertainment arts, with mentor teachers in each profession.

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Think about the time college students spend getting an education,So you Want to Go to Film School and Get a Job? Articles as well as all the money it usually costs. It is hard to imagine a school where you can learn what you need to learn, and get yourself a job.

The trend these days, especially during the economic downturn, is one Los Angeles film school that offers a production course curriculum that not opnly qualifies graduates for positions in the film industry, but that also for the television, music video and video industries.

Here's how this works. Industry experts pass on their experience and know-how to the Film Connection classroom and provide an exciting atmosphere where they work openly between movie sets and sound stages as the classroom. The school provides training on real sets and under real life working conditions. You get to be trained one-on-one by a working professional. The mentor proactively teaches both professional and technical skills, helping to bridge the gap between academia and the workplace. When you are done, you will probably have a job. "With the Film Connection students learn more and are better prepared to get a job. Those other over-priced film schools just don't work. You come out under-trained, unemployed and broke," said Mars Callahan, writer, director and mentor.

Programs can be completed in approximately half the time of degrees obtained from other schools. Plus, no experience is required and you can start any time. Most schools have specific semesters. Some of the students even take classes part time during night or weekend sessions, so this way they can train around their current job schedule. The average course length is five to seven months, depending upon the schedule.

Locating a good school is not only about which school will provide an education that the industry will take seriously, but the cost for attendance also plays into the formula. Colleges and universities have formulas that they use -- some charge applicants by the credit hour, by clock hour, or by the semester. With fees, books and supplies, it can all add up pretty quickly.

When it comes to learning about the entertainment arts, you should always look for a film, radio or music recording school that provides loans like SallieMae. Seek the schools that place more than 72 percent of their graduates into good, solid industry jobs. you need to make sure the school offers an apprentice program with mentor teachers.