TeenLife 2023 Guide to Performing & Visual Arts Colleges

Ringling College of
Art and Design
CELI MITIDIERI
IN MY
OWN
WORDS
Why Did You Choose to Attend Ringling College
and Major in Film?
The first thing that stood out to me about Ringling
College’s Film program is that it has an incredible
hands-on experience approach. From day one, we are
learning the basics of filmmaking and advancing our
knowledge every step of the way, all the way through
senior year. Beyond the department, Ringling College
also has incredible extra-curricular activities that allow
me to work with real clients and expand my knowledge
of how the industry functions. Finally, our Career
Services department is a life-long resource for students
and alumni. I am extremely grateful for attending such
a supportive school.
What Did You Hope to Get Out of Ringling
College’s Film Program, and Did You Achieve It?
As a learning objective, I hoped to develop my filmmaking
skills, especially directing and cinematography.
I feel very fortunate to have had so many opportunities
inside and outside of class to work on these abilities.
As a community objective, I hoped to find like-minded
people with whom I could share my love for the arts.
The community my peers and I have built over the
years has been the highlight of my experience here. I
have received more love and support than I could have
ever hoped for.
Did You Have to Prepare for a Major in Film?
If You Didn’t, Do You Wish You Did?
Unfortunately, I never had any practical art classes at
my high school. Most of what I learned before attending,
I pursued on my own or through workshops.
For anyone who is considering applying to Ringling
College, I would definitely recommend attending the
summer PreCollege program. You get to connect with
faculty and meet current students who are working as
teaching assistants. All of that plus you take immersions
in your desired field of study and get to participate
in fun activities on and off campus. As a cherry
on top of this amazing experience, Ringling also has
opportunities for scholarships for engaged students.
What Was a Typical Day Like at Ringling College?
Breakfast at our state-of-the-art dining hall, Cunniffe
Commons, followed by class. In the afternoons when
I don't have class, I usually do homework at Goldstein
Library or pick up a student worker shift at the soundstage
(part of Ringling’s Studio Labs complex) the or
the photography studio. After dinner, I usually go to
the film lab to edit my projects. The days can get busy
very quickly, so every so often I try to find moments
to take a break and watch a funny sitcom.
What Was the Most Memorable Moment of Your
Time at Ringling College?
Avant-Garde is an iconic scholarship fundraiser at
Ringling College that happens once a year on Scott
Plaza, at the heart of our campus. It is a costume party
and the themes switch every year and range from the
café scene in Paris to 70s rock-n-roll. A lot of our
students get to volunteer and be part of the event,
surrounded by donors and friends of the college as
they raise paddles to donate funds toward student
scholarships. It's pure joy and an incredible tradition
that provides an opportunity to celebrate the amazing
community we have built over the years.
What Advice Do You Have for Teens Looking At
Ringling College?
Reach out to current students and alumni. We love
talking to prospective students, and that's a great way
to gauge whether Ringling College is the right fit for
you. Every college has a unique culture, so I invite
you to learn more about ours. If you decide to join
the family, we would be so pleased to welcome you!
32 | 2023 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS COLLEGES