film and television personal statement

The conservatory style schools (e.g., AFI) only require one application, while film schools based at four-year universities (e.g., USC and NYU) typically require two applications: the application to the overall university (usually the Common Application ) and the supplementary application to the film school.

I won’t get into the nitty-gritty of how to write the best general application (for more on that, check out our guide to  building a versatile college application ). This application is still important, though, because you won't be admitted to a college's film program if your test scores, transcript, letters of recommendation, and other materials are not impressive enough.

Instead, I'll be talking about the supplementary application specifically (the only application for conservatory schools),  and I'll be using USC’s as my example as I’m sure many of you who are reading this will be applying there. Even if you aren’t applying to USC, its application is pretty much the standard film school application.

For USC’s film application , you'll need the following materials:

• Cinematic Arts Personal Statement
• Writing Sample (A or B or C)
• Visual Sample (Video or Photo Option)
• Creative Portfolio List
• Letters of Recommendation (3)*

I'll go into detail for each of the components below (excluding the letters of recommendation since these are just your typical letters).

#1: Cinematic Arts Personal Statement

One part of the USC film school application is the personal statement. Here is how USC describes this component (all bold emphasis mine):

The personal statement will be read by the Film & Television Production Admission Committee as a measure of creativity, self-awareness and vision. We are looking for a sense of you as a unique individual and how your distinctive experiences, characteristics, background, values and/or views of the world have shaped who you are and what you want to say as a creative filmmaker . We want to know about the kind of stories you want to tell. Bear in mind that enthusiasm for watching films, descriptions of your favorite films and the involvement in the filmmaking process is common in most candidates. As a result, we encourage that you focus on your individuality. Note that there is no standard format or correct answer. (1,000 words or less)

What should you write?

In layman’s terms, your personal statement should be an essay of no more than 1,000 words that captures your individuality and your passion for film.  I think USC gives very helpful hints to what makes a great (or terrible) personal statement. All film school applicants enjoy watching movies and have their favorites (if you didn't, why would you want to go to film school?), so you don’t want your personal statement to be all about that (otherwise, you'll seem unoriginal).

Think about it: what distinguishes you from all those other candidates? Your individuality, who you are.  What USC wants to see in your personal statement is   that you're an interesting, talented person they should add to their class. USC film school doesn't want average; it wants an engaging storyteller with unique tales to share.

Does USC want you to tell them what a great storyteller you are? No.  USC, as well as other film schools, want you to show  them what a great storyteller you are. To do this, you must tell  a story.

Let me demonstrate. Here is the introduction to my personal statement from my actual USC film application:

Cheerleader. A word that makes me want to hurl and is too often used to describe yours truly. I guess a bubbly, outgoing personality and attractive physique means you are a cheerleader. I sit excitedly waiting to hear my name. It’s 2006. I’m 14, and I’ve made it all the way to the Florida State Science Fair for my experiment on determining whether bacteria or fungi is more effective in cleaning up oil spills (BP could have used my help). I finally hear my name called and eagerly rush up to meet one of the judges to discuss my project. I spot him and am about to introduce myself. Before I can get a word out, he stops me, saying, "Let me guess, you’re a cheerleader." Let me clear the air now I am not now nor have I ever been a cheerleader. Firstly, I lack the acrobatic prowess required for such a role. Secondly, I hate the label. I correct the judge, to his embarrassment. We continue on to have an intelligent discussion about bioremediation, and I end up placing third in the state and winning an award from NASA.

I'm a huge fan of complex characters. It's too easy to jump to conclusions. "A vivacious personality, a flair for style, a good-looking appearance, she clearly has no intelligence to speak of." I want to tell stories with surprises and characters that break the rules like Martin and John Michael McDonagh.

In this introduction, I've told you a story about me from my past that reveals who I am, and I analyze it to show you what kind of storyteller I want to be.  I know this is no easy task, but I'll try to help you brainstorm your personal statement story.

Is there a moment in your life you're particularly proud (or even ashamed) of? For example,  did you help someone? Win an award? Overcome a challenge? Make a big mistake? These are all great types of stories that illustrate your character and your potential to tell a story.

If you're starting to put pen to paper, here are two topics to avoid:

• Sports victories and/or challenges:  Unless you have a very rare event to discuss, don’t do it (e.g., you tore your ACL while scoring the winning goal in the state championship). Think about how many students across the country play a sport at their high schools. These are the most common stories admissions officers read, and they hate them. (This is an example of a topic that would make you seem unoriginal.)
• Religious experiences (such as camp stories, mission trips, etc.):  Again, there might be an exception to this, but if you're talking about a religious awakening, it's an experience many people have had. Also, it might make the admissions officer feel uncomfortable.

Admissions officers want to see what is special about you ,   so don’t tell a story that will group you in with most other applicants.  Simple experiences/stories are often best. 

I wrote another personal statement (for my other applications) about giving money to a homeless man. After I walked away, the homeless man followed me down the street. I tried to get away from him, thinking he was trying to harass me. Finally, he caught up with me and asked for my name. I hesitated but told him it. He then shouted, "God bless, Lauren!" He had followed me to thank me and shake my hand. I was horribly ashamed that I’d thought the worst of him.

Do not think that your story needs to be about saving the world.

#2: Writing Sample for Film School

The writing sample provides you with another opportunity to reveal what kind of storyteller you’d like to be. According to USC, your writing sample can be one of three options :

• A dialogue scene between two people. Provide a one-paragraph introduction describing the two characters in screenplay format. (no more than three pages)
• A description of a four-minute film that contains no dialogue. It can be fiction or non-fiction. The story has to be communicated visually. (no more than two pages)
• Describe a concept for a feature-length movie, fiction or documentary, which you would like to develop. (no more than two pages)

I recommend option 2 or 3. You can attempt option 1 if you want, but I think it's the most difficult of the three to write well. I chose option 3, which I believe is the easiest option. Only submit option 2 if you feel very confident about your dialogue (i.e., that it sounds realistic and not cheesy) and scene structure (i.e., that it has a clear beginning, middle, and end).

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#3: Visual Sample for Film School

Next up is the visual sample. Here are the requirements for this application component at USC :

Please submit one of the two visual samples. It is essential that you specify what role(s) you have played in your visual sample.

• Video Option: Create a brief narrative video in which you had a major creative role. The video can be either live-action or animation, fiction or documentary, but it should reflect your aesthetic tastes and intellectual and emotional interests. (No longer than five minutes.) Please submit only ONE video. Multiple submissions WILL NOT be reviewed.
• Photo Option: Prepare a series of eight photographs you have taken which, when viewed in a specific sequence, portray a unique and original character or which tell a simple narrative story. Also, include a one-page narrative about the character being portrayed in the photos. The images may either be black-and-white or in color. Please upload the photos in order of sequence (1-8). Please upload the required one page narrative into the online application.

Basically,  you're required to submit one visual sample, which can be either a video or series of photographs.

Here's my strong recommendation:  do not choose the photo option (unless you're applying for a photography degree program). I repeat: do not do the photo option. I have never met a person accepted to film school that chose this option. By contrast, I have met people who applied with the photo option and did not get in. So don’t do it!

While I don't know why the photo option doesn't seem to work well for admission, I have a couple of theories. You're applying to film school to be a storyteller. In your application, film schools want to see the types of stories you want to tell. From just eight photographs, though, it's difficult to tell a complete story (and one that fits into a film genre like comedy). Simply put, telling a narrative or portraying a unique character is extremely difficult to do through photos.

By opting for the photo option, you essentially disadvantage yourself since other applicants can tell a full story (and really reveal their storytelling skills) in a five-minute video. If you care at all about getting into film school, you'll take the time to throw a video together. 

As with the writing sample, the video sample should capture a different side of you or genre of storytelling that interests you.   USC also lets you submit a video you had a major role in (e.g., you wrote, directed, edited, or produced it). Note that I'd only submit something you didn't write or direct if you have no interest in being a writer or director (and mention in your personal statement that you want to be an editor/DP/production designer/etc.).

USC wants to see your storytelling style, and if you didn't have a major role in the work (as a writer or director), it might be hard to see your influence on the final product.   I didn't have a video to submit for film school, so I wrote and directed something. My friends acted in it, and a friend with a camera filmed and edited it. It doesn’t look like a feature film, but it tells a cute, unique story.  Here it is for your viewing pleasure:

Star-Crossed Trekkies

Password: SCA2011

Objectively, it's amateurish, but I managed to tell a sweet story that demonstrated my interest in comedy.  While I wrote about the McDonagh brothers in my personal statement and composed a WWII period piece for my writing sample, my video sample—a comedy about trekkies trying online dating—was completely different.

The bottom line? Show an interest in multiple aspects of storytelling in your application! 

#4: Creative Portfolio List for Film School

The final piece of your application to film school is the creative portfolio list. Below is  how USC describes this application component :

The portfolio list is a written record of the applicant's creative materials. It should include a concise description of each project, the month and year the project was completed, the applicant's creative role and the purpose of the project. The material, which does not need to be film- or television-related, should give an idea of the range and depth of the applicant's creative ability. Formal recognition—such as awards, publications, jobs and exhibitions—should be noted. The name of the institution or publication should be included when listing creative materials prepared for a class or publication.

Basically, you're creating an artistic resume.  USC offers examples of what kinds of projects an applicant might include in her list as well as how it should be formatted:

July 2008, A Day in the Life, digital video, 12 minutes. Position: writer/director. A documentary on a homeless Iraq vet who has lived on the streets since his return from the military. Created for senior-year multimedia term project, San Raphael High School, Miami, Florida.

March 2008, Doorways, a series of 5 black-and-white photographs. Position: photographer. "Second Prize Winner" in the Des Moines Sunday Journal photo contest.

February 2007, Cellomorphosis , short story. Position: writer. A variation on the novella by Franz Kafka; published in Writing, vol. IV, 2007, at Amherst College, Amherst, Massachusetts.

Do not worry too much about your portfolio.   You don't need to have won awards to get into film school. I had won zero awards for my artwork.

Your portfolio just needs to show that you have an interest in art.  This could include acting, art projects (for fun or for school), and music you’ve written or performed (e.g., at a school talent show). Really, anything artistic can and should be included.

Just make sure you don't include any profane or inappropriate artwork.   I know this should go without saying, but in one of the applications I read at USC, the student had mentioned something inappropriate on his portfolio list. So I want to make sure you don’t do this, too! His high school art teacher had put an end to the project, but he'd still decided to mention it in his application. If your teacher does or did not approve of a project, it is very likely an admissions committee won’t either!

Completing Your Film School Application

Now that we've covered what materials you need to apply to film school, I want to give you a few pointers on completing your application.

Make sure you know the application deadlines for the film schools you're applying to so you can submit your application well before it's due. If you're unsure of a school's deadline, you can either search for "[College Name] film school application deadline" on Google or check the school's application page on the college's official website.  Most schools' deadlines are December 1. 

It's a good idea to create a timeline so you can ensure you finish your application on time. After all, your best creative work will probably take more than a week! I suggest spending the summer between your junior and senior years of high school working on your application. If you don't have a video to submit, plan on writing, filming, and editing a video over the summer so that you have it done and won't have to worry about it while you're focused on school work.

Also, prepare your personal statement and written sample over the summer so you can dedicate enough time to each. You'll likely work through several drafts and need people you trust (such as teachers or your parents) to look them over for you. Working on both during the summer lets you take your time and prevents you from rushing through the process. 

The only part of your film school application you should not complete during the summer is the portfolio list. You can write a draft, but don't forget to add all your artistic involvements in the fall of your senior year to your portfolio later on.

Final Points to Remember When Applying to Film School

If you're applying to film school, you'll need to understand just how you can produce an excellent application to increase your chances of admission. Here are the essential points to remember when applying to film school:

• Show diversity/multiple interests in your application.  For example, you could talk about how you're interested in comedies, period pieces, and sci-fi.
• Emphasize your individuality and prove that you're a unique candidate.   Avoid writing about something in your personal statement that most other applicants have experienced, too, such as getting injured in a sport.
• Simple stories are often the best ones!
• Do not do the photo option for the visual sample. Always do the video option; hardly any applicants get accepted to film school with the photo option.
• Do not write about anything inappropriate on your application.  If a project you did got canceled or was not approved by a teacher, chances are it's not appropriate to put on your application!

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What to include in a Personal Statement

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Personal statement example film studies ba personal statement.

Submitted by Liam

Film Studies BA Personal Statement

Prior to the initial study of the subject of Film and other sources of the creative arts such as writing, I found that there was no other point of interest and destination for my education. Since studying film from year 9, I have developed a considerable passion for screenwriting and my written style has improved significantly. The challenge of filmmaking, particularly in written form, has awarded me with the chance to develop my style of writing and also the skill of writing as a whole. During my studies, I was required to create a story in the form of a screenplay. Little did I know that this would become the start of a passion. During this time, I also discovered the aspect of filmmaking would be most appealing to me as it gave me the chance to express life experiences and apply them in a manner which could reach other people and give them the opportunity to escape into the cinematic world. Cinema has provided the greatest filmmakers with the opportunity to express themselves artistically, and I intend to follow in their footsteps.

Aside from my academic activities, I have a deep interest in literature and its different genres. I believe that this also has encouraged my passion for scriptwriting and the various forms of storytelling. My inspiration has come from a number of writers including Henry Miller and Ernest Hemingway. Through the works of each of these literates, I have discovered how a story can immerse someone into the world the author creates. Outside education, I have also kept a positive attitude toward bettering myself and developing my qualities. I believe that I have achieved this through both my hobbies and my work life. Within these areas, I believe that they have awarded me with qualities such as determination which I have expressed through my commitment to my involvement in martial arts such as Taekwondo and Krav Maga. Whilst working outside of education in the customer service sector, I have been awarded and have developed such skills as time management and punctuality, all of which will benefit me in the future of my education and life at university.

During my time in post sixteen education, I have studied Film studies, History and English Literature alongside the Welsh Baccalaureate qualification. Within these subjects, especially History and English, I have been able to broaden my knowledge in many different areas which I find the most interesting and appealing. Within History, coursework has developed my independent study skills. Much of this has been completed through evaluating and analysing sources as well as text. This, in turn, has prepared me for the challenges of study at university. My A-level studies, in general, have allowed me to develop considerable knowledge about issues that have impacted on the stories I write. I have developed a growth mindset and I also believe that I have grown as an individual. I am constantly aware of my goals and how I will strive to achieve them through resilience and determination. My Welsh Baccalaureate course has required me to work within my community and through this, I have mentored students with various disabilities and behavioural problems. I supported them with martial arts and self-defence and have worked effectively with them and encouraged them to discuss with me their aspirations for life following compulsory education.

Overall, I am very excited by the opportunities that university will hold and the impact in which it will have on my life. I am especially excited about developing my understanding and the skills required to work within the film industry. I am positive that I have the determination as well as the passion to successfully study Film at degree level. I aim to pursue my ambition into adult life.

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» How to Apply to Dodge College

Follow these steps to apply to Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University.

Step 1: Know your deadline

First, make sure you know your application deadline. That way you can apply on time.

Spring 2024

October 15, 2023 is the application deadline for first-year students and transfer students..

Note that transfer students cannot apply for a spring entry into BFA Film and Television Production or BFA Screen Acting. Transfer students must apply for a fall entry to these programs.

• Early Action — Early Action is a way to apply to Chapman early. You will receive your decision earlier than if you were to apply for Regular Decision.
• Early Decision — Early Decision is a way to apply to Chapman early. You will receive your decision earlier than if you were to apply for Regular Decision. Early Decision is binding . That means that if you are admitted, you must withdraw all other applications and attend Chapman.

Film and Television Production

• Screen Acting (priority deadline)*
• Writing for Film and Television (priority deadline)*
• January 15, 2024 is the Regular Decision deadline for all programs except Film and Television Production, which has a November 1 Regular Decision deadline.
• February 15, 2024 is the application deadline for transfer students.

* While we accept applications for Screen Acting and Writing for Film and Television up until the Regular Decision deadline, we recommend you apply by the priority deadline.

Step 2: Submit Your Common Application

Follow the Chapman application process to submit your Common Application.

You can’t move on to the next step until you have submitted your Common Application. Try to submit your Common Application as soon as possible so that you have time for step 3.

Also, note that we recommend you submit a letter of recommendation from someone that speaks to your creative talents and merits as a student. This letter should be submitted through the Common App (not Creative Supplement).

This letter would be in addition to the letter of recommendation required by the Office of Admission, so you would be submitting two letters total.

Step 3: Submit your Creative Supplement

All Dodge College applicants must submit a Creative Supplement. Your Creative Supplement is a showcase of experience and work that you’ve done related to that major.

• You will submit your Creative Supplement on your Application Status Page. You can only access your Application Status Page after you have submitted your Common Application, so be sure to submit your Common Application as soon as possible.
• You only have to submit a Creative Supplement for your first-choice major. If you include a second-choice major on your application, you don’t have to submit a Creative Supplement for it.
• There may be essay prompts in the Creative Supplement that are similar to prompts in the Common Application. In this case, please make your answer unique to the Creative Supplement and related to the program you are applying to.
• Part of our evaluation is how well you follow the prompts. Please do your best to follow the directions, including not going over the time limit for videos.
• If you are having issues uploading materials, check out our Creative Supplement upload tips .

The requirements for the Creative Supplement are different for each major. Choose your major to view requirements:

Animation & Visual Effects

1. dodge college personal statement.

In 500 words or fewer, tell us what about your distinct experiences/background/values makes you a unique candidate for the program for which you are applying. Please focus on what makes you unique as a person beyond any direct experience you may have in your intended field of study. Use this prompt to talk about aspects of yourself that are not already covered in other parts of your application.

2. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

3. Portfolio

Please note that a direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your application checklist once the Common App has been submitted.

Applicants will be asked to indicate their interest in one of the three areas of study below. Admitted students are not required to commit to an emphasis until the Fall semester of their sophomore year.  

Based on the emphasis that you are interested in we encourage demonstrating your skills in that area of study in your application. If you are not certain which area of emphasis you are interested in, you may submit a combination of samples from each of the three areas.  

The use of AI generated content of any kind will not be accepted for 2024 portfolio applications.  

All applicants must submit 20 total jpeg/png examples of work. The breakdown is below:

• 5 sample images with multiple drawings/quick sketches of people and animals that convey energy, movement, emotion, and personality through a few simple lines. Drawings should be done in a studio and in public settings. Suggested venues for gesture drawings are parks, zoos, beaches, restaurants, museums, and malls.
• 10-12 images showing designs of original characters, environments, or props. Multiple drawings per page of the same design from different perspective angles. Characters should include dynamic poses that convey a range of emotions and body attitudes. Submissions may include sketchbook pages.
• 3-5 storyboard or comic book panels with good composition, staging and clear storytelling. Versatility in drawing and design styles is a plus. 
• 15 Samples of 3D work using any 3D software packages that display fundamental proficiency in two or more of the following: modeling, rigging, prop design, lighting, set creation and 3D animation.
• 5 samples of traditional artwork that emphasizes lighting and color. 
• 15 single frame samples of 3D work using any 3D software packages that showing fundamental proficiency in two or more of the following, modeling, rigging, prop design, lighting, set creation and 3D animation.

Part 2 

All applicants must also submit a video submission (.mov and .mp4). The breakdown is below:  

• Animation that demonstrates fundamentals of weight, physics, timing, and personality.
• Animatics of storyboard samples, plus strong character posing and performance that conveys emotion and drives the story.
• Still or moving samples of 3D animation or environments
• 20 seconds of 3D story-telling skills that demonstrate good camera placement and movement, performance choices, editing, staging, and composition. 
• Examples that demonstrate integration of digital art and live action content including basic compositing skills such as masking, roto, matte painting and camera tracking. 
• Samples of animated 3D work including VFX simulations, 3D characters or creatures using any 3D software packages.

Note: Manipulation of existing popular animated content and lots of animated text and graphics is less suited to our program.  

Broadcast Journalism & Documentary

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

3. Major Requirement Essay

In no more than 2 pages, talk about an issue in the news that’s important to you and why. Why is it important to the public at large? Are there aspects of the story that are getting too little attention in the media coverage?

Your essay should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides. Remember to title your essay.

Creative Producing

In no more than 2 pages, please plan an event and include all the details that you would need to prepare for including, but not limited to, the budget, venue, marketing, specific guest list or types and how many, why are you doing this, food, entertainment, wardrobe direction, menu, speakers, performers, etc. While you have full creative control over what this event is, the more details you include and plan for, the better. And originality matters.

There must be two additional people on your team that you are in charge of coordinating. These two people can have any role or skillsets that you choose, and they must be included in your planning structure.

There must be at least one (1) dilemma that you face in your planning that you must plan accordingly for. You can choose one of the following examples or come up with your own dilemma that directly affects the planning of your event:

• Two people that are vital to the event have had a fall-out and will not work with each other.
• Your event requires food to be present but there are many different dietary restrictions and the budget cannot accommodate multiple different dishes to match these dietary needs.

This essay should be typed in Times New Roman, 12 font, one-inch margins, single-spaced and no longer than two (2) pages in length. You may not use bullet points; this must be in essay format with full sentences. First person language is fine to utilize.

4. Autobiographical Video Essay

A direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your Application Status Page once the rest of the Creative Supplement has been submitted.

Create a short video essay no longer than two (2) minutes in length. Tell us your story as if you were creating a project proposal and pitching it. In this video essay, you will answer all of these questions:

• What is your background?
• How did you discover your passion for producing?
• Outside of your immediate family members, who has had a major influence on your life and helped get you to where you are today?
• What movie(s) or television show(s) has/have had a profound impact on your decision to pursue Creative Producing?

You may include other dialogue, sounds, images, video clips, etc. to help tell your story but you must include your own voice for the majority of the dialogue. You do not need to film yourself if you are uncomfortable, but there must be visual representations present in your video essay that relate to the content of it. We highly recommend your video essay be completely in English, but you may also supplement with on-screen text whenever necessary.

Film and Media Studies

In no more than 2 pages, write an analysis of a film released in 2023 that strongly resonated with you. Focus on the film's execution and delivery of themes or messages, particularly how specific uses of the cinematic aesthetic (such as cinematography, editing, and sound) contributed to the overall impact.

2. Creative Resume 

3. visual sample.

A direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your Application Status page once the rest of the Creative Supplement has been submitted.

Without using dialogue, voice over or music with lyrics, create a film that is under two minutes and is about a character making a difficult decision. Show that the character is pulled in two different directions at an emotional level, visualize their process of consideration and show that they make a decision. Showcase your 1st choice emphasis interest in your visual sample. For example, if you selected Production Design, we would like to see your production design skills shown throughout your two-minute film. Please follow this prompt as it is written. Not following the prompt (for example: including dialogue or exceeding 2 minutes) could affect how this part of your application is reviewed. Each applicant is required to be the sole creator of their film and all creative supplement requirements.

You may use copyrighted music in your visual sample . However, you cannot use music with lyrics (only orchestral pieces and sound effects).

4. Writing Sample (Directing Emphasis only)

If you select Directing as your emphasis, you must also submit two short writing samples (both prompts below) :

In no more than 500 words, describe a transformational moment in your life that fundamentally changed you as a person. Explain how you gained wisdom and greater understanding of yourself as a result of this experience.

Formatting: Your story should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides.

All Directing students are required to direct a capstone project. In no more than 200 words, provide a synopsis for an original story for a thesis film that would run approximately 10-15 minutes in length. It should be your original story and not adapted from material authored by someone else. Bear in mind your budget and shooting schedule will be limited.

Public Relations, Advertising and Entertainment Marketing

In no more than 2 pages, describe a public relations, advertising or film marketing campaign that was particularly successful in reaching its target audiences. Examine the overall goal or message of the campaign, how that message was delivered and whether the campaign was effective or not. Please cite supporting research or information that would support your conclusions.

Screen Acting

Writing for film and television, 3. major requirement: short story.

In no more than 2 pages, write a short comedic or dramatic scene based on the prompt below:

Two people who are close experience a sudden calamity that changes their relationship.

Focus on developing and defining characters, building on the story and creating captivating dialogue. Do not use formal screenplay format. We are looking for strength in your storytelling ability.

Your story should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides. Remember to title your story.

Step 4: Wait

You’re all done. Now just sit tight. We’ll review your application and get back to you soon.

You can view your application checklist and admission status on your Application Status Page.

Virtual How to Apply Information Session

• You can learn more about this process at our upcoming How to Apply to Dodge College Information Session on Wednesday, October 18 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Pacific Time ( timezone converter ).
• Those looking to apply to the Screen Acting program should attend the How to Apply to the College of Performing Arts session on Tuesday, October 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Pacific Time ( timezome converter ).

If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected] .

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Now, the grueling process of preparing an application package is our duty.

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Once we get notified about a client’s successful transaction, they will instantly be sent Customer Area sign-in information. A customer’s password can be modified for a more comfortable website experience. The chief feature your customer area can offer is an anonymous chat with the assigned author and support agent. Furthermore, you can use your Customer Area to save completed admission docs, request revisions, or order any other essays.

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Film Personal Statement

In recent times, the film industry has recorded massive growth and this has sparked interest in many people. People either want to be actors, film directors, film producers, scriptwriters as well as other careers that lie within the film industry. To do all these, however, you must have enough knowledge and film study must be involved and in this way a personal statement film production such as OTCAS personal statement.

A film personal statement plays a very crucial role in the process of applying so that you can undertake a film study. It is a chance to express yourself and stand out among your equals who might have qualified just like you and impress the film school production committee.

Why You Need a Film Personal Statement

A film personal statement is very important for anyone who is applying and is hoping to be considered for an opportunity to study film. The importance of a film personal statement should be emphasized as it is a determining factor as to whether you will be chosen to pursue a particular course in an institution of higher learning.

5 Simple Steps on How to Write a Film Personal Statement

From our film studies personal statement examples, there are very simple and straight forward steps that you can follow while writing a film personal statement as elaborated by our film studies personal statement examples.

The 5 very simple steps of the goal essay roadmap include:

• You should open your film personal statement with a very strong opening sentence. You need to be able to keep ahead of the pack, so make the right impression that you have what admission board want to see.
• Be focused while writing your personal statement. Answer the exact questions that should be answered in a straightforward manner.
• Your personal statement should reflect your interest in a particular field. If you already have any experience, don’t forget to mention it as well. To show that you are specific enough you can show your awareness of the study field by using professional language.
• Make sure that you write in an enthusiastic, concise and natural style while using simple language that is well understood and precise.
• Make sure that you proofread and review the write-up after you complete writing it. You could use a third party who can read through the statement for the sake of those errors that you might not notice yourself.

How to End a Film Personal Statement

How should you end a film and television production personal statement? You are seeking a position through expressing yourself, so just show all your passion to chosen subject. In the conclusion part of your film studies personal statement, make sure to focus on the main reasons why you are the best applicant among others in the most laconic style. Mention your expectations of what you will gain through the course.

Common Mistakes

Image credit: Welling School Sixth Form

Many people make a number of mistakes which recur for different people. These include

• Copying from statements that have already been written for successful candidates or from the internet or asking someone else to write on your behalf. This is a personal statement and therefore you are the best person who can explain yourself.
• Use clichés instead of coming up with original and authentic write-ups. This is especially rampant with the opening sentence where most people copy common quotes as well as overused statements.
• Failing to go through the environmental science personal statement after you are done writing. This way the statement is bound to have a lot of errors such as those of grammar, omissions, spelling mistakes, punctuation. Some statements could be insensible as well.
• Writing in an informal style. This could be by using jokes, conversational language, casual statements and much more. Some people could be overdoing it by using very difficult terminologies and vocabulary.
• Failing to plan before writing is another common mistake. A plan or draft is quite important in this case. It gives you an opportunity to write a sure and proofread copy that is complete with all detail and that lacks any form of errors.

In case you need any form of assistance with writing your film and television production personal statement, make sure you reach us!

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Feedback on Personal Statement Draft? USC Film and Television Production MFA

• Thread starter rainydays
• Start date Sep 21, 2020
• Tags feedback mfa film and television personal statement usc

Well-Known Member

• Sep 21, 2020

Hi everyone! I'm applying to USC for a film and television production MFA, and I was wondering if anyone would be able to give me some feedback on my personal statement? I'm a bit nervous because while it is really authentic, I'm afraid I may be pushing it to far. I'd really appreciate some feedback!  

green-scarf

• Sep 22, 2020

Happy to take a look  

• Sep 23, 2020

Hi Rainydays, I'd also consider giving feedback. I'm not sure how valuable it'd be as I'm also a prospective student and don't have any insider information. But I've had some similar questions about mine.  

Active Member

Send it to me and I'll take a look. I was accepted into USC's MFA program without an interview. I might be able to offer insight into how faculty may feel about your content. Best of luck!  

• Jun 13, 2021

I'm willing to read your ps and give your advice~ I will give my feedback asap You can send it to my mailbox: [email protected]  

ashjupiterw

• Nov 14, 2021

rainydays said: Hi everyone! I'm applying to USC for a film and television production MFA, and I was wondering if anyone would be able to give me some feedback on my personal statement? I'm a bit nervous because while it is really authentic, I'm afraid I may be pushing it to far. I'd really appreciate some feedback! Click to expand...

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Top 10 Personal Brand Statement Examples To Follow

Updated: March 11, 2024

Published: June 18, 2023

In a 2022 personal branding trends study, most respondents said they consider personal branding an essential component of work and their everyday life. 

It found that 75% of Americans trust someone with a personal brand, and 63% are likely to buy from someone with a personal brand. 

As an entrepreneur who is always on the lookout for customers or potential investors, you know that trust is key. Developing a personal brand for yourself can be an effective tool to help grow your business.

What is a personal brand statement?

A personal brand statement is a couple of sentences that highlights your unique skills and experience. It’s meant to be a quick introduction to people who discover you online because it summarizes what you can offer them.

Basically, it’s a catchphrase, tag line, or elevator pitch for you as a professional individual. While it showcases what you do professionally, you can also display your personality.

Why leaders should have a personal brand statement

You make a better first impression.

As the saying goes, “You only have one shot to make a first impression.” The challenge for entrepreneurs is that you don’t always know when that opportunity arises, as many first impressions happen online.

When a potential client or investor hears about you, their first instinct is to look up your social media profiles. If you’ve got a clear and well-thought-out personal brand statement, you’ve got a better chance at making them stick around for second and third impressions.

You can establish yourself as a thought leader

Thought leadership is a powerful content marketing tactic that can help you reach bigger audiences and generate leads for your business. When you’re known as a leader in your particular industry, that automatically gives you a higher level of credibility. 

A personal brand statement can strengthen your thought leadership strategy by clearly stating your area of expertise.

You can create networking opportunities

Whether you’re looking for top talent, new clients, or potential investors, networking is half the battle. 

Personal brand statements make it easy for potential connections to understand exactly what you do and what you value. Without it, you may miss out on opportunities simply because they didn’t know that you had something relevant to offer them.

Best personal brand statement examples for leaders

“bilingual creative who lives at the intersection of business & design.” —chris do.

Source: Chris Do’s LinkedIn page .

Chris Do is a multi-hyphenate: a designer, creative strategist, public speaker, founder, and CEO of The Futur, an online education platform.

What makes it great : Because he wears so many hats, Do’s personal branding statement is better than trying to explain everything he does.

“Helping people find their zen in the digital age.” —Shama Hyder

Source: Shama Hyder’s homepage .

Shama Hyder is the founder and CEO of Zen Media, a marketing and PR firm. She’s also written a book about digital marketing .

What makes it great : Hyder’s brand statement is an attention-grabbing play on her company’s name and showcases one of her key values: making clients feel a sense of calm in a fast-paced digital world.

“Write better sales emails faster with our in-inbox coach.” —Will Allred

Source: Will Allred’s LinkedIn page .

Will Allred is the co-founder of Lavender, an AI-powered email software startup.

What makes it great : Brooklin Nash, CEO of Beam Content, shares, “In one sentence, Allred captures the entire focus of his social presence: to help salespeople write better emails faster while demonstrating his authority and sharing his product in the second part of that headline.”

“Keeping it awkward, brave, and kind.” —Brené Brown

Source: Dr. Brené Brown’s homepage .

Brené Brown has a Ph.D. in sociology and is the author of several books that cover topics like shame, vulnerability, empathy, and courage.

What makes it great : Dr. Brown’s personal brand statement embodies her mission statement of encouraging people to embrace their vulnerabilities by sharing her own.

“Empowering ridiculously good marketing.” —Ann Handley

Source: Ann Handley’s homepage .

Ann Handley is a digital marketing expert and bestselling author. Her company helps marketers get tangible results.

What makes it great : Sharon Jonah, creative director and founder of digital marketing agency Buzz Social, shares, “In four words, we understand what Handley does, how she does it, whom she’s speaking to, and how she speaks.”

“Still just a girl who wants to learn. Youngest-ever Nobel laureate, co-founder @malalafund and president of Extracurricular Productions.” —Malala Yousafzai

Source: Malala Yousafzai’s Twitter profile .

Malala Yousafzai is the youngest Nobel laureate and an activist whose fund aims to remove the barriers to female education around the world.

What makes it great : Her bio highlights her impressive achievements with language that makes her sound relatable. 

“Marketing. Strategy. Humanity.” —Mark Schaefer

Source: Mark Schaefer’s homepage .

Mark Schaefer is an educator, speaker, marketing consultant, and author. He’s developed corporate marketing strategies for brands like Microsoft, IBM, and AT&T.

What makes it great : “It’s subtle, concise, and creative. It describes what Schaefer does, what he focuses on, and his unique and distinguished approach,” says Omer Usanmaz, CEO and co-founder of mentoring and learning software Qooper. 

“Empowering successful women to take control of their finances.” —Jennifer Welsh

Source: Jennifer Welsh’s LinkedIn profile page .

Jennifer Welsh founded Money School, a digital course that teaches women about personal finance. What makes it great : Welsh’s strong personal brand statement says exactly what she does and whom she does it for. 

“Let’s make Excel the solution, not the problem.” —Kat Norton (Miss Excel)

Source: Miss Excel’s homepage .

Kat Norton (known as Miss Excel) became famous on TikTok for her bite-sized Microsoft Excel tutorials. She now offers Excel courses on her website.

What makes it great : Norton’s clever statement shows that she understands her audience's problem and highlights her personality.

“‘The Customer Whisperer.’ I help marketers discover the hidden reasons why customers buy so they can become un-ignorable.” —Katelyn Bourgoin

Source: Katelyn Bourgoin’s LinkedIn page .

Katelyn Bourgoin is a creator and serial entrepreneur who founded a branding agency, a mentoring platform for female entrepreneurs, and a restaurant consulting firm. She trains entrepreneurs to uncover what makes their products “un-ignorable.”

What makes it great : Bourgoin’s clever branding statement effectively tells marketers that she can help them understand their customers better and make their brands memorable.

How to write a personal brand statement

Writing an effective personal brand statement can be tough because it requires you to be catchy yet compelling. It should give audiences all the necessary information in a sentence or two.

Here are some tips for writing your own:

Think about your unique value proposition

A unique value proposition (or unique selling point) is what makes you different. It tells people why they should try your product or service, network with you, or invest in your business.

Tip : Identify your core values, goals, and strengths.

If you don't know what those are, ask yourself:

• Why am I building my brand?
• What do I want my audience to know me for?
• How do I do things differently?
• Do I have a distinct skill set, experience, point of view, or passion?
• What value do I bring to my audience?

Keep it short and sweet

Your brand statement should be simple and easy to understand. 

The goal is to have someone look at your profile or website and immediately understand who you are and what you do, so keep it brief. Keep in mind that you don’t need full sentences either. 

Start by writing one to three sentences that outline what you do, for whom, and how you do it. You can also add a sentence about values. 

Then, look at different ways you can shorten them. Or pick out the most specific and impactful words and see what happens when you simply list them. 

Showcase your personality

Injecting your personality empowers you to share what you do without being bland or boring. Being authentic also helps attract like-minded customers, investors, and peers. 

At the end of the day, there are other people out there who may offer similar services or solve the same problems for your target audience. Your personality can set you apart.

“Don't be afraid to inject a bit of humor, quirkiness, and passion. It’ll help make you more memorable and help you stand out from the crowd,” says Usanmaz.

Ideally, you want customers to know what you do and get a little taste of what it will be like to work with you.

A personal brand statement conveys your mission, differentiates you from competitors, and attracts your target audience. Use these tips and real-life examples of personal brand statements to inspire you to write your own.

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Film studies personal statement example 1.

Since I am a relatively young person living in a media orientated part of the world, film and television have been and continue to be hugely influential in just about every area of my life.

For example growing up, my sense of humour was shaped by Jim Carey movies and joey from 'friends', I was unable to sleep properly between the ages of 9 and 14 because of those awful teen horror films that were popular back then and probably the biggest influence film has had on me was when I was around 16 years old I began acting out a lot of my life instead of being present and actually living in the moment.

Although that's a pretty bad way to be, my guess is that it's the way most teenagers are living and interacting nowadays.

Thinking about it now it's quite funny, but for something to have such a far reach & powerful effect on people amazes me and leads me think about the good points, like the effect documentaries about climate change, decline in animal populations and third world poverty have on the mindset of the general population in the west & the way that when a person really, totally connects with a character in a film, it can change their mood, opinion or even to some extent their general worldview, I find the possibility quite overwhelming.

When I studied photography in college I often felt frustrated and although I was happy when a picture or project turned out to be good I didn't feel involved in the image after the project was finished. When I watch a good film and really relate to a character it's like I've discovered a new part of myself or an idea I've had has been personified for me on screen without me even asking for it to be, a really brilliant thing. Good Characters and a well written script are definitely what makes a film for me.

Areas of film that interest me more than others would have to be script writing and character development, the use and importance of film in other cultures and documentary film. In my life I've probably learned more from documentaries on TV and the internet than I have from reading books.

As well as film I am also interested in music, philosophy and some of the other arts; I run a live music night with a friend of mine in our hometown putting on small and unsigned bands once a month or sometimes even bi-weekly. We've been doing this on & off now for 2 years now and have done well enough to have made a lot of contacts in the independent music scene and have done a few shows for cancer research UK and the Alzheimers trust too.

When I left college in 2007 I felt like I was back where I was when I finished school, not knowing what to do for the future and not knowing where I fit in at present, so although I'd been accepted into a university and the option to continue in photography was there I decided to take a gap year, get a job and earn some money while I decide what I really want to do with my life.

After about a month of my gap year I was already bored, so out of curiosity I started reading about new things; mainly science, religion, philosophy etc. In this short space of time I have gained a hunger for learning and communicating that along with my enjoyment of art and film I would love to take with me into higher education.

Creativity and a vast imagination are the two main things I will bring to the table in my studies and in my work. So naturally, when I leave university I would like to be involved in pre-production and production its self and I believe my enthusiasm and want for learning will ensure that I enjoy university life and use my time there wisely as a springboard into film beyond education.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by lcostello for application in 2008.

lcostello's Comments

I'm looking for constructive criticism, any is appreciated.

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

I think the unable to sleep.

Tue, 07/10/2008 - 13:35

i think the unable to sleep because of horror films is a bit much. its too life story. maybe if you worded that differently it could work.

the first two paragraphs are

Wed, 19/11/2008 - 17:17

the first two paragraphs are not needed, not formal enough. sounds like you're confiding in the admissions officer your secrets to get a place...

Sun, 07/11/2010 - 15:51

I do like your personal statement it shows personality and who you are, but I do feel it needs to be cut down slightly, as their is too much info about you and less about the course. overall I like it!

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