1. Applying for Film Studies at Sussex
Tips for a successful personal statement
Dr. Despoina Mantziari, Teaching Fellow in Film Studies

2. Awareness of the course
‘Students taking Film Studies at Sussex have the opportunity to explore cinema as an art form, as an industry, and as an exciting object of critical scrutiny. Our core modules cover the history of global cinema, the components of film form and style, and the various ways the cinema has been discussed and understood. Our options reflect the diverse research interests and expertise of the faculty, allowing students to explore particular genres, specific topics and various national cinemas.’
Michael Lawrence, Reader in Film Studies
In their personal statement:
Clearly demonstrate their understanding that our course requires them to read and write critically about film and is not a course in Filmmaking.

3. “I first discovered my passion for film around 2 years ago, from watching films by my favourite director Martin Scorsese. Although from a young age I have loved watching films, it is only the past two years that I have wanted to be involved in the making of them. Through watching films by the likes of Scorsese, Tarantino and Spielberg, I have gained much understanding as to how these films are made and the unique techniques each individual director uses. I believe studying film at university will give more of an insight in to how films are made and will help develop my personal Film making skills.
I want to get involved in many different roles, such as directing, writing, producing, and editing. I enjoyed being able to do this at college…”
Many students emphasise their enjoyment of their practical courses (film editing/cinematography/SFX modules)
and…

4. Their career goal to enter the film industry
“I am interested in developing my current skills as a film producer/director to be able to make larger and high budget productions. […] This course really allows me to progress my skill and get really confident behind all the elements to film making.
In the future I plan to create large feature films and possibly TV series in a totally new style of directing following the footsteps of my favourite directors such as Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, Alfred Hitchcock and Quentin Tarantino. ”

5. “During my studies I found that the process of deconstructing a text excited me as I began to challenge myself in light of the themes and ideologies of each film.”
“The prospect of studying film is incredibly exciting. It combines both theory and creativity which I have come to value and grasp through the literary curriculum I follow.”
“enhance my eye for detail and develop my understanding of culture, society and artistic movements. I am keen to draw upon knowledge from humanities, sociology, philosophy, and art history in examining film.”
“In order to increase further my knowledge of film and media theory, I have read: "The Feminine Mystique" by Betty Friedan, "The Beauty Myth" by Naomi Wolf, "Half the Sky" by Nicholas D.Kristof and "Living Dolls" by Natasha Walter. These books all focus on feminism and how women are objectified.”

6. Demonstrate a broad interest in cinema…
… that extends beyond Tarantino films.
Willingness to engage with:
Historical material
Non-Anglophone cinema
Convey a sense that they are serious about pursuing film as an academic study instead of indulging their hobbies and personal preferences.
“enhance my eye for detail and develop my understanding of culture, society and artistic movements”
“Film first captivated me in the earliest period of my life when my father would introduce me to the classics of Spielberg and the gems of Asian cinema, the first foreign language film I watched being Chan-wook Parks "Oldboy".”

8. Our suggestion
Encourage students to take responsibility and do some research about our film studies degree and expressly mention the appeal of the particular programme they are applying for. They can:
Look at the information on our website
Visit us on an open day
us directly for further advice and clarifications