5 answers
Jayden
Student
Fontana, California
5
Questions
Updated
1300 views
What can I do while still in community college to build up my portfolio for Dodge Film College in the Film and Media Studies program?
I already post ratings on Letterboxd and on my Instagram. What else can I do to get a good chance of being accepted into Dodge?
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5 answers
Joe L.
Program Manager
120
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Chapman's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts is highly competitive, especially for the Film and Media Studies program, which combines theory, criticism, and history with some creative opportunities. Since you're in community college, this is a perfect time to build a compelling portfolio and application.
Here's what you can do right now to strengthen your case:
Start Building a Personal Film & Media Portfolio
Even though the Film and Media Studies program isn’t a production-heavy major like Film Production, having a creative portfolio still shows initiative and passion.
Film Reviews or Criticism Essays – Write thoughtful, well-structured critiques of films or TV series. Start a blog or Medium account to showcase your work.
Video Essays – Create YouTube-style analytical essays using clips and voiceover to explore film themes, history, or cinematography techniques.
Film Theory Projects – Analyze a director’s style (e.g., Hitchcock’s use of suspense), or genre evolution (e.g., superhero films post-2008).
Podcasts – Launch a short podcast discussing film trends, interviews with creators, or deep dives into genres.
Take Transferable & Relevant Courses
Make sure you’re fulfilling transfer requirements and taking relevant courses such as:
Intro to Film Studies
Media Literacy
Cultural Studies
Screenwriting (Intro-level)
Also take English, Humanities, Philosophy, or Sociology classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills—core for Dodge’s Film and Media Studies.
Develop a Strong Writing Sample
Dodge may request writing samples like a critical essay, research paper, or film review. Prepare:
A college-level paper that shows your ability to analyze film/media texts.
A sample that connects film/media to broader cultural, historical, or political contexts.
Ask a professor to help you revise your best paper into a polished piece.
Get Real-World Experience
Look for hands-on opportunities even if you're not in film school yet:
Volunteer on student film sets at nearby 4-year colleges (like CSU Fullerton or UCLA).
Join local film clubs or meetup groups.
Apply for internships (even unpaid) at local film festivals, production companies, or media orgs.
Start a YouTube channel or TikTok focused on film analysis or history (especially trends, genre evolution, or auteur theory).
Get Involved in Campus or Local Film Culture
Start or join a film club at your community college.
Organize a short film screening + discussion event.
Attend local film festivals like Newport Beach Film Festival, LA Shorts, or Sundance local screenings.
Submit short pieces to student film review journals or zines.
Prepare a Strong Application Package
Dodge values a thoughtful, well-rounded candidate. So, begin crafting:
A compelling personal statement about why you want to study Film and Media Studies—not just that you “love movies,” but how film has shaped your worldview.
Letters of recommendation from professors who can speak to your critical thinking, writing, and passion for media studies.
Optional portfolio (if allowed) including writing samples, video essays, or blog content.
Suggested Portfolio Structure (if you're submitting one)
One academic essay on film/media
One 3–6 minute video essay
One blog post or published review
Resume highlighting relevant experience and extracurriculars
Here's what you can do right now to strengthen your case:
Start Building a Personal Film & Media Portfolio
Even though the Film and Media Studies program isn’t a production-heavy major like Film Production, having a creative portfolio still shows initiative and passion.
Film Reviews or Criticism Essays – Write thoughtful, well-structured critiques of films or TV series. Start a blog or Medium account to showcase your work.
Video Essays – Create YouTube-style analytical essays using clips and voiceover to explore film themes, history, or cinematography techniques.
Film Theory Projects – Analyze a director’s style (e.g., Hitchcock’s use of suspense), or genre evolution (e.g., superhero films post-2008).
Podcasts – Launch a short podcast discussing film trends, interviews with creators, or deep dives into genres.
Take Transferable & Relevant Courses
Make sure you’re fulfilling transfer requirements and taking relevant courses such as:
Intro to Film Studies
Media Literacy
Cultural Studies
Screenwriting (Intro-level)
Also take English, Humanities, Philosophy, or Sociology classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills—core for Dodge’s Film and Media Studies.
Develop a Strong Writing Sample
Dodge may request writing samples like a critical essay, research paper, or film review. Prepare:
A college-level paper that shows your ability to analyze film/media texts.
A sample that connects film/media to broader cultural, historical, or political contexts.
Ask a professor to help you revise your best paper into a polished piece.
Get Real-World Experience
Look for hands-on opportunities even if you're not in film school yet:
Volunteer on student film sets at nearby 4-year colleges (like CSU Fullerton or UCLA).
Join local film clubs or meetup groups.
Apply for internships (even unpaid) at local film festivals, production companies, or media orgs.
Start a YouTube channel or TikTok focused on film analysis or history (especially trends, genre evolution, or auteur theory).
Get Involved in Campus or Local Film Culture
Start or join a film club at your community college.
Organize a short film screening + discussion event.
Attend local film festivals like Newport Beach Film Festival, LA Shorts, or Sundance local screenings.
Submit short pieces to student film review journals or zines.
Prepare a Strong Application Package
Dodge values a thoughtful, well-rounded candidate. So, begin crafting:
A compelling personal statement about why you want to study Film and Media Studies—not just that you “love movies,” but how film has shaped your worldview.
Letters of recommendation from professors who can speak to your critical thinking, writing, and passion for media studies.
Optional portfolio (if allowed) including writing samples, video essays, or blog content.
Suggested Portfolio Structure (if you're submitting one)
One academic essay on film/media
One 3–6 minute video essay
One blog post or published review
Resume highlighting relevant experience and extracurriculars
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jayden !
Good to see you here again. I remember all of your cool inquiries from earlier this year ! It's great to know that you will be following through with your career goal and becoming a Film and Media Studies student for your Bachelors Degree. I take it that your current major for your Associates is not assigning any projects, but you can come up with some. If you're doing related media and film projects for your Associates already, include them in your portfolio.
My first suggestion is to actually start teaching ! You may be wondering, no, it's not too soon. I taught acting after my Sophomore year through a Parks and Recreation Program. You can teach Film Analysis or Criticism at places that are community based or even at a local theatre and charge a fee for each student. Look into Chafffey Adult School in Ontario, CA, Fontana Adult School, and Fontana Community Senior Center for students 55 and older. In addition, call the Community Services Department of Fontana to see if you can conduct a class through them. If you want, you could even do an online course if you'd prefer - or both.
Keep in mind that many, many colleges do not require a portfolio for non-production film and media majors to be admitted. My perception is that you can build a resume and the articles you are already writing are great projects and can be listed on your resume with a link so the admissions reviewers can read your articles. Chapman's Media and Film Studies Program does not require a portfolio at this time, but they require all applicants to Dodge College to submit a Creative Supplement, which includes a Resume of creative projects and other materials. So papers and articles will be fine. You can put any volunteer work or teaching experience on your resume. So your projects would be more along research, analysis, and creative development.
Most importantly, do not rush or overthink or overload yourself for the sake of being admitted to Dodge. You'll be fine, have your Associates Degree and whatever you've worked on during that academic path. Strive for good grades and a strong GPA for your Associates Degree. Any projects that sharpen your critical thinking skills, technical proficiency, and storytelling abilities will be good for the particular career you're going into. Call the college and ask what the admissions requirements are so that you can prepare according to what the specifics are.
If you are obtaining your Associates Degree from a community college that is fairly close by Chapman, there's a chance that you may have Guaranteed Transfer. You didn't say what college you're currently attending, though, so call Chapman and see if your current college is one that has Guaranteed Transfer. After you find out, that will be a sort of clue as to what you may need to prepare for. Most likely you won't have to take any courses over, that's why this is something to find out about now.
For any projects you might want to do out of interest and expanding your expertise, pick people and topics that interest you most. Also do something on a topic that you're really not interested in. Be as versatile as possible with all genres and historical periods.
It's going to be very important for you to develop strong connections with your current Major Department, the professors, staff and students as making these connections can inspire project ideas or collaboration. By being around there a lot, there even may be some paid opportunities that you otherwise wouldn't have known about. Even though your niche is not in the realm of hands on filmmaking or production, lots of inspiration and creativity can come from being right there at your Major Department.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Good to see you here again. I remember all of your cool inquiries from earlier this year ! It's great to know that you will be following through with your career goal and becoming a Film and Media Studies student for your Bachelors Degree. I take it that your current major for your Associates is not assigning any projects, but you can come up with some. If you're doing related media and film projects for your Associates already, include them in your portfolio.
My first suggestion is to actually start teaching ! You may be wondering, no, it's not too soon. I taught acting after my Sophomore year through a Parks and Recreation Program. You can teach Film Analysis or Criticism at places that are community based or even at a local theatre and charge a fee for each student. Look into Chafffey Adult School in Ontario, CA, Fontana Adult School, and Fontana Community Senior Center for students 55 and older. In addition, call the Community Services Department of Fontana to see if you can conduct a class through them. If you want, you could even do an online course if you'd prefer - or both.
Keep in mind that many, many colleges do not require a portfolio for non-production film and media majors to be admitted. My perception is that you can build a resume and the articles you are already writing are great projects and can be listed on your resume with a link so the admissions reviewers can read your articles. Chapman's Media and Film Studies Program does not require a portfolio at this time, but they require all applicants to Dodge College to submit a Creative Supplement, which includes a Resume of creative projects and other materials. So papers and articles will be fine. You can put any volunteer work or teaching experience on your resume. So your projects would be more along research, analysis, and creative development.
Most importantly, do not rush or overthink or overload yourself for the sake of being admitted to Dodge. You'll be fine, have your Associates Degree and whatever you've worked on during that academic path. Strive for good grades and a strong GPA for your Associates Degree. Any projects that sharpen your critical thinking skills, technical proficiency, and storytelling abilities will be good for the particular career you're going into. Call the college and ask what the admissions requirements are so that you can prepare according to what the specifics are.
If you are obtaining your Associates Degree from a community college that is fairly close by Chapman, there's a chance that you may have Guaranteed Transfer. You didn't say what college you're currently attending, though, so call Chapman and see if your current college is one that has Guaranteed Transfer. After you find out, that will be a sort of clue as to what you may need to prepare for. Most likely you won't have to take any courses over, that's why this is something to find out about now.
For any projects you might want to do out of interest and expanding your expertise, pick people and topics that interest you most. Also do something on a topic that you're really not interested in. Be as versatile as possible with all genres and historical periods.
It's going to be very important for you to develop strong connections with your current Major Department, the professors, staff and students as making these connections can inspire project ideas or collaboration. By being around there a lot, there even may be some paid opportunities that you otherwise wouldn't have known about. Even though your niche is not in the realm of hands on filmmaking or production, lots of inspiration and creativity can come from being right there at your Major Department.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Dora Endre
Filmmaker and stage director, writer
15
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Dora’s Answer
Hi Jayden,
Great question! It’s awesome that you’re already sharing your thoughts on Letterboxd and Instagram - that’s a solid start. I’d recommend a few more things:
- Collaborate locally: Try teaming up with local organizations, NGOs, cast, crew or community groups to create short films, social media campaigns, or short documentaries. These projects not only give you practical experience but also meaningful stories to showcase.
- Build a professional portfolio website: Keep it simple but polished. Having a dedicated space online to display your work and projects can make a big difference.
- Get involved in residencies, retreats, or mentoring programs: These opportunities can boost your skills, connect you with industry pros, and give you new perspectives.
- Practice daily: Whether it’s filmmaking or screenwriting, daily practice is key. The more you hone your craft, the better your work will be.
- Volunteer your skills: Even if it’s as an editor, volunteering is a great way to gain experience and build your network. Check out platforms like Catchafire for project opportunities you can contribute to.
Most importantly, focus on developing your skills and storytelling rather than just aiming to get accepted. In film, hands-on practice and real-world projects often matter more than formal education alone.
Keep creating and learning - you've got this!
Warm wishes,
Dora
Great question! It’s awesome that you’re already sharing your thoughts on Letterboxd and Instagram - that’s a solid start. I’d recommend a few more things:
- Collaborate locally: Try teaming up with local organizations, NGOs, cast, crew or community groups to create short films, social media campaigns, or short documentaries. These projects not only give you practical experience but also meaningful stories to showcase.
- Build a professional portfolio website: Keep it simple but polished. Having a dedicated space online to display your work and projects can make a big difference.
- Get involved in residencies, retreats, or mentoring programs: These opportunities can boost your skills, connect you with industry pros, and give you new perspectives.
- Practice daily: Whether it’s filmmaking or screenwriting, daily practice is key. The more you hone your craft, the better your work will be.
- Volunteer your skills: Even if it’s as an editor, volunteering is a great way to gain experience and build your network. Check out platforms like Catchafire for project opportunities you can contribute to.
Most importantly, focus on developing your skills and storytelling rather than just aiming to get accepted. In film, hands-on practice and real-world projects often matter more than formal education alone.
Keep creating and learning - you've got this!
Warm wishes,
Dora
Suzanne Smith
5
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Find some helping organizations like Salvation Army or other charities and make 1 minute public service announcements or commercials to show volunteerism and that you use your film studies for good. Also have short films in several different genres like comedy, drama, sci-fi to show your range.
Jacob Steiner
Cinematographer
15
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hi Jayden,
I don't know what it is exactly that you'd like to be doing there. I believe it's really important to have a goal when you're going in. This is a production school. They have production facilities and equipment (sound stages and film equipment + post production facilities. They have a movie theater to show films and student projects. They work with directing, cinematography, acting, sound, production design, screen writing and producing students.
My question is what do you want to do? I highly advise that you take time to think about what you want to do and then hone in on that. The school wants to see that you have a passion in some area, and if you truly don't know what you want to do then your grades are also really important. In the case that you do know what you want to do, I believe it's important that you build a reel (not instagram) of your works compiled together in 1 or 2 minute video to showcase your work to the school when applying.
If the school has open events where the public is invited, I encourage you to go and take a look at the facilities and gain an understanding of the school. If there are productions and they post that they need help on shoots, I advise that you take the time to throw your hat into the ring to see what it's all about.
The things that will help you get in the most is standing out from the rest, and in my opinion, that's high quality work that can be showcased to the people who will be looking at your application and a clear drive to succeed in the area that you're applying for. If you match for what they're looking for, then you're in.
I don't know what it is exactly that you'd like to be doing there. I believe it's really important to have a goal when you're going in. This is a production school. They have production facilities and equipment (sound stages and film equipment + post production facilities. They have a movie theater to show films and student projects. They work with directing, cinematography, acting, sound, production design, screen writing and producing students.
My question is what do you want to do? I highly advise that you take time to think about what you want to do and then hone in on that. The school wants to see that you have a passion in some area, and if you truly don't know what you want to do then your grades are also really important. In the case that you do know what you want to do, I believe it's important that you build a reel (not instagram) of your works compiled together in 1 or 2 minute video to showcase your work to the school when applying.
If the school has open events where the public is invited, I encourage you to go and take a look at the facilities and gain an understanding of the school. If there are productions and they post that they need help on shoots, I advise that you take the time to throw your hat into the ring to see what it's all about.
The things that will help you get in the most is standing out from the rest, and in my opinion, that's high quality work that can be showcased to the people who will be looking at your application and a clear drive to succeed in the area that you're applying for. If you match for what they're looking for, then you're in.