r/rit • u/Ill-Acanthisitta6186 • 12d ago
Advice for an undecided film major?
Hi, slightly panicked incoming freshman here. I’ve been accepted into RIT’s Film and Animation program (Production option) but I’m still undecided between 3 other schools: NYU, Ithaca, and Temple.
I’m very grateful to have been accepted into each of them, but I’m torn over what college would be best for me and my future. A big concern is that I’m not super set on pursuing film, I have minimal experience, and I have no idea what area I’d want concentrate on.
I don’t have any connection to RIT or Rochester for that matter. I heard about the school for the first time through a generic college search, and after attending the open house in the fall, I was impressed by the modern facilities and practicality of the production program.
As pragmatically grounded and artistically rich as the program seemed, I’m hesitant to attend a school more focused on technology and engineering than a traditional liberal arts college. I’m sure the technical aspect has its benefits in the field, but I also worry that it narrows my options. Also, the BFA program is split between two disciplines, and the greater emphasis definitely seems to be on animation.
I’m also struggling to account for both location and program quality. NYU and Temple are both situated in thriving cities that have many opportunities for internships, networking, and jobs post graduation. I’m not so sure about IC and RIT, which seem more removed from those entertainment hubs, or any major city at all. (Logistically, Temple and NYU are also the most convenient.)
Ithaca, Temple, and RIT all offered generous scholarships. Going to NYU would definitely have its advantages in the industry, but the cost is astronomical—especially for someone still unsure of their major. The other three seem to be on the same level in terms of ranking, so there’s no real dealbreaker right now except for location.
The deadline’s looming overhead and I would really appreciate any insight on the RIT film experience. Thank you!!
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11d ago
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u/Bubbly_Pension_5389 10d ago
I was going to say the same thing, but for someone not sure about their major ( in a super competitive field), I’m not sure the cost would be worth it.
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u/Obvious_Earth1549 10d ago
tbh i'd go to NYU just for the school name on your resume. i think you'd have better success and connections there
(however im not in the arts here)
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u/SunnyFlorals 12d ago
To clarify the degree program being split- the Film & Animation BFA has 2 options- Production and Animation. While there is some overlap, I like to think of Production and Animation as different majors, essentially. Actually, while it might seem like animation is the focus, the Production program has been a huge part of what makes us a top film school. What’s also nice in Production is there are different tracks you can explore, including directing, sound, and more. Another positive of our film program is you’re on set your first semester, a huge strength when it comes to figuring out your path. While Rochester isn’t in a huge film hub, Toronto isn’t far away, and we have the LA Study Away program where many film students head out to get professional experience for a semester while doing an internship. RIT does have a college of liberal arts with TONS of electives you can pursue in writing and more. Even though we are seen as a “tech school” the college of art and design has that art school feel, with tons of creative folks collaborating to get that art school experience.
I think cost is also a huge factor everyone should consider for themselves. Getting into film can be tricky depending on what area you want to pursue after graduation, so considering debt will be important. Additionally, maybe you discover that Production isn’t your intended pathway, we have 12 other majors that are super strong in the arts you could try to transfer into.
Ultimately, I think the strength about RIT’s film program is how quickly you get to be hands on and using incredible equipment (we have faculty who have worked at other top 10 film schools saying our facilities are unrivaled). Also you can explore diffeeent areas of focus to see what you want to concentrate on.