Why I Chose to study at American University, Washington D.C. ?
When I decided to explore my Masters in Filmmaking abroad, I signed up with an educational consultant to guide me through the process. They asked me to finish my TOEFL and GRE and so I did. But they didn’t ask me which subject I wanted to major in?
Mid-way through when I checked in with them about the status of my application, I learnt that the consultant didn’t have much knowledge about creative courses. They were planning to send in my application to four universities which offered purely research-based Mass Communication and Journalism programs which were not practical though I had specifically mentioned to them about my priorities when I signed up with them.
I started my research and when I went through curriculums of two universities, I was very impressed with the programs of:
MA in Film & Video from American University (AU) – Washington D.C. &
MFA in Screenwriting from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) – Los Angeles, California.
I was not sure if my choice of universities were right but I liked the programs of both the universities so I then asked the consultant to send in my application to both of them along with two from their shortlisted ones. I got admission letters from both AU and LMU and I decided to go to AU to pursue my masters due to the following reasons:
- Methodology of teaching & Faculty – During my research, I found that all the courses offered by the School of Communication of AU follow ‘Experiential Learning’ based methodology. I also learnt that the faculty are from diverse backgrounds. Many of them are leaders in their industry and are well known for engaging and empowering students in activities outside of classroom; to enhance students’ learning beyond classroom teaching.
Getting in touch with someone in the Admissions office of the university where one plans to send in their application is top priority to clear all doubts.
2. Assistance the university provides for students – When I went through American University website and also got in touch with few Alumni, I understood that all incoming freshmen are assigned to an individual counsellor. That impressed me because a foreign student needs individual attention in a foreign land until one settles down.
This information can be gathered by either connecting to the Alumni network of the university or by writing to their Graduate Office.
3.Culture of the University – Following the university’s social media blogs gave me the information that – The Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) of AU serves as a resource and liaison for students, staff, and faculty on various issues of equity through education, outreach, and advocacy.
It’s very important to read as much as possible about the university before one decides to go there as it’s important to analyse if they will be able to fit into the culture.
4.Job prospects in the city– As AU is situated in the heart of the capital city of USA, top media companies like Discovery Channel, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Voice of America, NPR Radio and more attract students either for Internships or for jobs after graduation.
This information can be gathered from the Careers / Placements department of the university.
My main focus was non-fiction filmmaking. So, an Internship with a local production company (Ventana Productions) which was also a co-working space for few Independent filmmakers producing shows for Discovery channel and such reputed companies worked out in my favour. The contacts I made there got me opportunities to work with Voice Of America (Hindi Division) and Discovery Channel after I graduated from AU.
Choosing the right educational consultant who understands your dreams goes a long way in your career. The right consultant can not only guide you in choosing the right program and the right university in a methodical manner but can also ensure that you are well-equipped to secure admission to your dream course abroad.
Take that first step now towards your creative dreams!
About Post Author
About The Author
pratima jaidev
Head - Internships & Portfolio Development Pratima Jaidev is a media professional with 18+ years of work experience across various industry verticals which include the corporate (IT) sector, media houses, educational sector and more; both in India and in the U.S.