Prague, a Perfect Place to Learn Film

First and foremost, this program can be everything you've wanted from a film study abroad program, or it could be relatively mundane and uninformative – it's ultimately up to you which it is. The educational style is very different from that in the U.S., there aren't nearly as many deadlines or assignments. And, more or less, the ultimate goal is always your final film, not the smaller projects in-between. Also, specifically because of the program we are a part of, some of the professors are more artists than teachers. So, sometimes in the classroom, especially with the language barrier (the Professors' proficiency in English varies from ok to completely fluent), it may seem like you're not getting what you expected.

BUT, this is where it's up to you! All of the professors are VERY capable professionals in their craft, and they want more than anything to talk to you about it. Take them out for a beer, go down to Klub FAMU, and talk about literally anything that comes on your mind (sometimes it doesn't even have to be about film, although that's the topic that stays incredibly interesting). A lot of the knowledge I've learned through this program has been through one-on-one consultations and meetings, it's just so helpful to work with true professionals. If you want to glide through the program and just get by, you probably could, but you're not coming to film production at FAMU for that. If you want to learn, you can and you will, just look out for the opportunities and people. In other words, don't expect everything to come to you. It's there, just grab it!

Having a final film to work on is the other truly amazing part of the program. First of all it's one of the only ones left that still uses real 16mm/35mm film (depending on your group). The other thing is you're not weighted down with a long list of requirements like one may expect from group projects assigned back at your home institution. Don't fret, they don't let you go wild with no restraints, but it is YOUR film, and you can ultimately make it what you want. Your last month will be intensive, but you'll learn so much just going through the experience of film production for your own real film.

Prague's a great place to study abroad: things are far cheaper than in Western Europe, the city is incredible (not too big, not too small), and the culture is refreshing. But more than anything else, if you're looking at film production at FAMU what you care about is the film. So, from somebody who's been here, it's an experience that can be the pinnacle of your academic career – if you put the work in.