Bijon from Oklahoma writes:
Dear Jason,
I wish I had found your blog way before. I’m a Bangladeshi-American filmmaker. I was born in Germany though.I have applied to UCLA as well and my position is 22. I’m really confused about my situation. After reading your blog, I’m more hopeful about it now. I have also applied to three other schools. My plan for next three months depend on these decisions.
My wife and I live in Oklahoma. She needs to tell her school whether she will teach next year or not. At this moment I don’t even know whether I’m getting into any of these schools or not. Based on your experience, do you think I should think of heading towards LA now?
Take Care. Thanks for your help.
Sincerely,
Dear Bijon,
Is your position number 22 as a director? I remember finding it confusing when I was applying as well. The school takes 18 directors, so if 4 people don’t decide to come, then you are in!
I know that in my year there were 3 people admitted off of the wait list. I totally understand the difficulty in planning. I remember the limbo period between decisions.
I think heading towards LA is dependent on a number of things. There is a possibility you will get into UCLA, but I wouldn’t depend on that. Do you have a film background? If so you may be able to find work on the technical side (gripping, assistant camera, assistant directing) for a year here. This would also lower your tuition by $10,000 if you got in next year, because you could become a california resident.
On the downside LA is very expensive depending on where you live, in graduate student housing where I am it’s $1069 a month.
It’s a difficult decision, and one I had to make last notice when I found out in July I was getting in. It depends on your skills, goals and situation.
The only other thing I can say for the wait is find writing classes and take them. Read a lot of books and write a feature script. I think that could be tremendously helpful when you come. The store section of my blog has the many, many books I have found helpful in learning about screenwriting.
Good luck! I hope this helps.
Jason
