JEDDAH — The New York Film Academy (NYFA) officials will be visiting the Kingdom once again this year to conduct filmmaking and photography workshops. This will be the academy's third trip to meet students here who are interested in films, photography, cinematography, acting, producing among others. “Film is the literature of the 21st century; it is a medium of great expression as through a culture one can express itself to the rest of the world. “Our vision and mission are to find the best, most talented young people and train them in the ability to express themselves as artists, to tell stories that are uniquely Saudi and help them in achieving it,” said NYFA's Director of General Admissions Tami Alexander. Asked how Saudi students respond to the workshops, Alexander said: “Response was excellent. Since our last visit we have many Saudi students who have enrolled in our bachelor's or master's degree programs, and they are some of my most ambitious and exciting students. “I really cannot ask for more every time I come to the Kingdom. The people, the culture, and the experience are always great.” According to Alexander, on April 14 starting 6:00 PM they will be hosting a one on one meeting with interested students at Qasr Al Sharq, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. “We are holding private workshops for interested local schools and organizations that have prospective students interested in studying in our degree programs for the fall semester 2013 - 2014,” she said. The NYFA team will also be in Riyadh from April 16 — 19 to meet students and conduct seminars on “The Art of Storytelling through Image” at the International Exhibition and Conference on Higher Education. Alexander said that the programs have been approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and students can receive scholarship funds from the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission. “The NYFA has the most hands-on and intensive programs in the world. Saudi Arabian students are up for the challenge,” she added. The requirements for getting enrolled at the academy, Alexander said, vary for each program. “Our bachelor's and master's degree programs require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose and a creative portfolio. “Our certificate program requires at least a high school diploma,” she said, adding, “I personally work with each student one on one with their application and help them throughout the enrollment process.” NYFA is the preferred school for many aspiring filmmakers, actors, and actresses. Alexander hopes to meet with talented, passionate, and artistic prospective students who want to come and study with them in their campuses in New York City or Los Angeles.
