OMG! What Do I Do? (Too Much of a Good Thing!)

I'm slated to start a low-residency MFA in Digital Cinema (aka Digital Filmmaking for us non-fancy folks, LOL) via an online program at National University. I passed the interview with the program head and have been fully accepted into the program. My first class starts on July 9, 2012.

About 1-1.5 months ago, on the military board, I learned about a new program for unemployed veterans called VRAP (Veterans Retraining Assistance Program). I was still in flux about the MFA program, so I applied online at the Vet's Admin website. I learned about VRAP a week after it was nationally announced (I don't watch much TV), and because the money is first-come, first-serve and they had a limit on the number of awardees for this year, I was almost certain that I would miss out for this year.

So, I pursued the MFA program. But, I just checked my mail and there was mail from the Vet's Admin.

I GOT THE VRAP!!!

So, now I have a decision to make. Do I take the VRAP and run, or do I stick with the MFA? I'm thinking of doing the VRAP (it's only 12 months of funding), and THEN pursuing my MFA. The sensible side of me says I would be better prepared for a graduate-level filmmaking program if I actually had some filmmaking experience or training under my belt.

Is that a good idea? What would you do, or advise your loved one to do if they were in my position? Thanks a bunch!

 

Without knowing your entire situation, I would take the VRAP and then re-evaluate your position once you complete it. Take advantage of any assistance the government is willing to give you as a retired vet. :usa:

 

Soupbone is right. NU isn't going anywhere, and they will probably let you delay your start date. Why choose when you can have both things? Good luck!

 

Thank you both. That's the conclusion I came to as well. I'm going to use the VRAP and get a certificate or associates degree (whichever one I can get in 12 months) in film production. That way, I'll be well prepared for an accelerated graduate-level film production MFA. It's not a great idea to be learning the software at the same time you're trying to do an assignment in a class that only lasts 8 weeks.

 

Sounds like a plan.....