NYFA taught us that, when it comes to filmmaking, going out and doing the work is the only way to succeed, and repetition is the way to turn the work from decent to good to great.

I would like to thank NYFA once again from the bottom of my heart for providing the most fun and beneficial educational experience I have ever had. The year I spent at NYFA was a kaleidoscope of experiences that developed me as a person as well as an artist. I am extremely thankful to all of you, as the education I received stands as a strong foundation towards the film career I intend to build.

My first year at NYFA was one of the best years of my life. For the first time, I was able to think about filmmaking all day, every day of the week. It was paradise. My thesis film opened the door for me to every project and work opportunity that came after. So I think that, if you have all the guidance, support, and resources that NYFA can offer (like the amazing instructors), plus an obsession for film and filmmaking, then probably great things will come.

I think everyone should go through the feature track [in the MFA Filmmaking program] because the classes we took were invaluable. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the help of my instructors — thanks, guys!

I have many fond memories at NYFA, but one of the things that I found so wonderful in my experience at the New York Film Academy’s MFA Directing program was the diversity of backgrounds that the students brought with them.
You had some that entered the program with experience in filmmaking but you also had some that didn’t. Among some of the people in my class were still photographers, a graphic designer, an architect, and even an agronomist!
There are great instructors to help you learn artistry and technique but it’s up to you to incorporate your own personal touch to develop a unique style of storytelling.
Coming from an acting background, I was able to help some of my classmates understand what it is that an actor needs from his/her director to achieve the ultimate performance. I, on the other hand, learned that the visual aspect of storytelling is just as significant.
It was an extraordinary learning experience and a beautiful collaboration amongst young filmmakers. One that I will strive to obtain again and again in my professional career!