The film studies faculty held an informational session Tuesday night for current and prospective film studies majors and minors to help educate students about what they could do with the major.

The informal session gave attendees an idea of what film majors study, how a film degree can apply in post-graduate settings and the various fields of the film industry.

Students were introduced to the faculty, an alumnus and the leader of the Exposure Film Society. They were also presented with information about current film classes and programs offered at the University by the film studies department.

The speakers sought to make students aware of how diverse the film industry can be and what they can do to be successful.

Ora Gelley , a film studies professor specializing in European film, spoke to the students about their options and answered questions from the audience.

“I talked about certain classes to take and ways [the students] can supplement their education,” Gelley said.

One way to enhance a film studies education, according to Gelley , is to participate in a study abroad program. The department offers two different study abroad programs during the summer. The first summer session program is in Prague, and the second session is in Amsterdam. The study abroad programs give students the ability to experience studies in foreign film and expand their knowledge of all avenues of the film industry.

In addition, graduate programs that yield a Masters of Fine Arts degree are instrumental in successful networking and career building.

“[Graduate] programs can be springboards for getting contacts in the industry,” Gelley said.

Alumnus Clifton Armstrong, who also spoke to the students, received his degree in film studies and then got involved in different film programs and projects to broaden his horizons.

Because the film industry is very diverse and competitive, Armstrong emphasized the importance of hard work, and making an effort to put the best foot forward.

“You have to dig deep [to find what you’re looking for]” Armstrong said.

Jake Dulling, a sophomore in mechanical engineering, went to the session to learn more about the film studies department.

Dulling said in an effort to complement his engineering major, he is considering a film studies minor, and is currently taking an introduction to film class. The class is providing him with basic knowledge in all areas of film studies.

“I was really interested in the production aspects. They’re pretty fascinating,” Dulling said.

The session proved to be beneficial to Dulling, who said the speakers had valuable information to bestow and answers for all of the students’ questions.

“It was really helpful to hear Clifton [Armstrong] speak. It gave me a good perspective of what to expect and what I can be doing now,” Dulling said.

Maria Pramaggiore , professor and director of film studies, spoke about the importance of being proactive in order to advance in the film industry. Pramaggiore said that the job possibilities multiply when considering all facets of the trade.

“You have to carve your own path,” Pramaggiore said.

Jobs in the film world range from screenwriting and editing to producing and directing. Screenwriting and editing are typically how people start out. And according to Pramaggiore , most people find consistent work doing that.

Devin Orgeron , an associate professor of film studies who specializes in contemporary American film and non-theatrical film, was also in attendance at the session. Orgeron said he wants students to understand the mixture of the film industry and the possibilities that extend even outside the business of film.

“I’m [focused] on getting students to think smartly,” Orgeron said.