I transferred to USC and I hate it. I want out, but that means leaving the film program. What do I do?

Question

I transferred to USC from Santa Barbara City College. I have a 3.9 gpa from there, although it did take me 2 1/2 years to do so. I came here in hopes of getting into the film program. I now have come to realize I probably will not be admitted into production, but I am pretty sure I will be admitted into the Critical Studies department. Is it worth it to suck it up and stay here? I like the teachers and the classes I have taken, but I just cannot stand the environment. I have applied to UCSB and Cal. I know neither have an outstanding film program, but both are reputable schools (especially Cal). I should be having fun and be happy while in college, while also getting a great education. USC is just not doing it for me, but I feel like I may forever regret leaving.

Isla Vista (UCSB) is a hard place to leave. I established a large group of friends there and I almost feel like it is worth it to go back there for that alone.

But, film is a hard field to succeed in, and USC is the best.

I wanted to note that I do know I would like it better(at least the people and social aspects) at UCSB, which is where I transferred from.

Answer 1

go where you'll be happy! If you're less than thrilled with the film program at other schools, look at it as an opportunity to turn it around. Your education is what you make it...not what it makes you. Therefore, you should be able to thrive at any school, regardless of program strength. If you don't decide to transfer, get involved in as many projects as possible that are of interest to you, even if you get nothing else out of them but the pleasure of being there.

Answer 2

You need to ask yourself these questions:

1. how much does the film program reputation/everything else about it mean to you?
2. Would you truly enjoy your experience in or out of the film program at USC if you stayed knowing that you dislike the environment?
3. Would you be able to continue your friendship with your group of friends even if you transferred schools?
4. What is it about the school or area that you dislike? Is it something that will not be at the other school? (ie. if you don't like living in California, then you will not be happy at any of the schools, but if you don't like the culture of the school, then you might be happier at others...)

I would suggest going in to talk to your academic advisor about your options as well.

In the end, you need to consider what will be the best option for you. If you are not happy in the department or the area, you may not get the best education for you. It may even help to talk to one of the admissions counselors at the other schools (they can help you work through all of this--true admissions counselors should help you to find the right "fit" and not just sell their school).

It will be a tough decision, but you are right: college should be a time where you have fun, are happy, and get a great education.

Answer 3

If you want to do film -- you should stay at USC.

There is no guarantee that you would like it elsewhere. I got my PhD at Berkeley. I'm glad I did it -- but I hated the environment. It was worth it to stick with it.