Best regards,
Van Hsieh

There are definitely benefits of going to film school, if you choose a good(not necessarily expensive) one:
(1) Your will get systematic training on the entire process of filmmaking – from pre-production to post-production;
(2) You will have a chance to network with people who are in the industry, or people who know somebody in the industry;
(3) You will get to use the equipment that you can’t afford to buy yet;
(4) You get to meet people who have the same interests, and can possibly become your filmmaking buddies for a lifetime.

On the other hand, it can be quite costly to go to film school. So it also depends on if you have the budget.

The evolution of video technology has made filmmaking much more affordable than before. You can get a DSLR camera such as Canon 60D for about $1000, plus a decent lens, and capture beautiful images with it.
Going to school or not, I think the best way to learn is to have more hands-on experience. The more you practice and experiment, the better a filmmaker you become.

You can gain production skills and knowledge by reading books, watching movies, and making a short film/video on your own.
Some people do not need the systematic training a school provides, while others prefer a structured learning environment with mentors.
The other great way to learn is to seek internship with production companies.

I would suggest that you take a few production classes at a local college, or some local media center that offers film classes before enrolling in a 4 year film program. This way you can find out if you are really interested in the process of filmmaking, and in which aspect you are especially interested in(scriptwriting/directing/cinematography/producing…etc), without having to invest lots of money at once.

If you decide to go to film school, be sure to do some research to find out if the school is more hands-on or more theory-oriented.
If you are spending money going to school, you want to have good access to equipment and solid training on production, instead of just
“talking about movies.”

To get a job in this field is not as straight forward as getting an engineering or accounting job. A degree in film is less important than good bodies of work/portfolio that you can show the prospect client/employer. If you are really keen to learn, and are good at what you do, you will always be able to find work. You can start working at a young age, and start your own production company at a young age as long as you are driven.

Listen to your heart, take (smart) risks, and stay focused : )

Best wishes to you,
~ Van Hsieh

thank you.