What led you to major in Film and Media Studies?
I took a couple of film and media classes when I was in high school and absolutely loved them. I started my first year at USC as an English major, but I kept thinking about those classes from high school and how much I wanted to continue learning about film and media. The second semester of my first year, I started double-majoring in Film and Media Studies, and I haven’t regretted it for a single second.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your Film and Media Studies coursework so far? The most challenging?
The most rewarding aspect of my Film and Media Studies coursework has definitely been how much I’ve learned. There was so much about the film industry that I was unaware of when I first started classes, and a lot of the knowledge I’ve received has been very eye-opening. All my professors have been incredible as well; they all care about their students’ well-being, and genuinely want you to learn and excel in class.
The most challenging aspect of my Film and Media Studies coursework has probably been looking past the narrative of films and doing analysis. When I watch a movie, I tend to get sucked right into the narrative; however, in Film and Media Studies, you have to learn to look past what’s being said on the surface and dig deeper.
What are your plans for summer 2020 and beyond?
I would really love to have an internship or job somewhere in the film industry. I’m also looking at graduate programs. As I’m also an English major, I’ve been looking into screenwriting – I feel like that would be a good way to combine what I’ve learned from both of my majors.
What advise would you give students considering a major in Film and Media Studies?
Just do it! I know there’s some anxiety involved about job prospects after graduation as the film industry can contain some job uncertainty, but if you love what you’re doing and work hard you’ll do fine. If you’re uncertain about the major, I would recommend taking a few classes first to test the waters and see if working in film is something you would enjoy and can see yourself doing in the future.