Why I Chose to Study Filmmaking Abroad?

During 1990’s …in the lobby of a reputed university in Hyderabad

I was anxiously waiting for a Professor that I knew at the university to come out and tell me if I got selected for the Masters in Communication & Journalism…he did come out after half hour of my Interview.

“I’m sorry, Pratima. I don’t think we will be able to give you admission though you got a good score in the written test and cleared the Interview round as well”, said the professor to me.

“Well, sir! Can I know the reason? I asked him.

“You have a tie with another candidate. She has a caste certificate and hence she will have to be given priority over you. You are from the forward caste and you will have other options unlike them”, replied the professor.

I was lost for words, my mouth became dry, my feet were trembling and I was not sure how I would fulfill my dream of being a Filmmaker. I was totally disappointed and was sweating profusely as I was not sure what my next step would be. The professor observed my panic and asked me – “Did you write any other entrance exams for Masters degrees?

“Yes sir, I received admission letter for Masters in English literature”, I replied.

The professor suggested that I should pursue my MA English and also sign up for a P.G.Diploma in Journalism and Mass communication (evening college)  with a private institute and complete both courses simultaneously. That way, I would not only have a Masters degree but also a diploma in my chosen field. It was only then did I know that to pursue a Masters degree abroad, we require a minimum of 16 years of education as well as a related Diploma or Short course in the field of our chosen Creative Field.

I followed the Professor’s advice. After two years, I successfully completed both the courses and went abroad to pursue my Masters in Film & Video Production from School of Communication -American University, Washington D.C.; one of the reputed Universities in the U.S.

Though the first step towards my desire to pursue a degree in the creative arts of my choice was not fruitful, the direction towards which the University professor pointed me worked. Further, the support I got from my mentor and my family turned my dream into a reality.

After securing a degree from a university abroad, I have now come a long way over the years in becoming an Independent filmmaker and donning various other roles successfully. It’s not just my experience working in the media that I attribute my success to; but, it is also my experience that I gained from various other industry verticals which include the corporate sector, education sector and more in both India and in the U.S.

I have learnt that U.S. is not just a land of opportunities. It’s a place where one can re-discover their creative passions in multiple ways only to emerge as a successful and Independent professional.

Following one’s creative passions, earning a degree in the chosen field abroad gives an impetus to mold one’s future in myriads of directions that one can even imagine. U.S. is a country where multiple cultural traditions are embraced very warmly and hardwork is always paid off without any discrimination based on caste, creed or sex.

Find your creative passion and set-off on your journey abroad!

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pratima jaidev

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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.

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