When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
NYFA I New York Film Academy
Why NYFA I New York Film Academy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The New York Film Academy (NYFA) is a premier creative institution that offers an immersive, hands-on education in filmmaking, acting, and visual storytelling. Founded in 1992 by Jerry Sherlock, NYFA was created as an alternative to traditional university film programs, designed to make high-quality film education accessible and practical. The Academy's approach is uniquely project-based, emphasizing learning by doing. From day one, students engage in writing, directing, shooting, and editing their own original films, as well as working collaboratively on their peers' projects to build real-world production experience. NYFA provides mentorship from seasoned industry professionals and fosters critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills essential for success in the competitive entertainment industry. With campuses in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and more, NYFA offers diverse programs ranging from short workshops to graduate degrees, catering to a broad array of creative interests such as filmmaking, acting, screenwriting, animation, and musical theater. Its central location in New York City, nestled amidst vibrant cultural scenes and professional opportunities, makes it an excellent place for students to meet, collaborate, and grow their network. Student life incorporates various events and social spaces, though some highlight the intensive nature of certain programs.
Here's what people think of NYFA I New York Film Academy
As of recent, NYFA I New York Film Academy holds a 4.2-star rating based on 261 reviews.
Reviews of NYFA highlight a generally positive experience with an overall rating around 4.2 out of 5, based on over 260 reviews. Many students praise the school’s immersive, hands-on curriculum, which is considered transformative and effective in preparing them for professional theater and film careers. The quality and expertise of the instructors receive high marks, with several reviewers appreciating the real-time feedback and industry-level standards enforced by the faculty. The emphasis on practical experience through working on original projects is frequently mentioned as a key strength that boosts student confidence and creative development. On the positive side, students enjoy the passionate community, helpful staff, and access to diverse learning resources, alongside attractive locations near restaurants and parks. However, some negative reviews touch on the intensity and workload of programs—particularly in areas like musical theater—leaving limited time for social activities. There are also mentions of limited food options on campus and calls for more student lounges or open communal spaces to foster engagement beyond academics. In conclusion, while NYFA's rigorous, learn-by-doing approach receives widespread acclaim, prospective students should be prepared for an intensive experience with high demands alongside considerable opportunities for growth.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leechelle Butts
I’m extremely relieved my daughter decided not to attend this school. We were deceived from beginning to end. When we called them on each lie we were told “the person no longer works here.” We were later told she would get a full $500 refund if she decided not to attend for any reason. When it was time to collect her refund she had to call several times. I called and left a voicemail with no return call. My daughter called every day and being that they have caller id they ignored every call. I finally called from my google phone number and they answered on the first ring. The next day she received a portion of the refund. Then five days later they sent my daughter an email asking “how can they help her they have already sent her refund.” As if they were not dodging her calls for weeks. They refused to call her back and then sends an email after the fact. Very unprofessional, shady and deceptive. I am beyond frustrated with them and would not recommend anyone to attend this school. Not now. Not ever. George the director was the best thing they had going on now he’s gone. The new people have horrible customer skills.
Rashid
I really liked the people, the place, the atmosphere. I would really like to study there.
Joel McDowell
They'll steal your money and ruin your life. LITERALLY the only "good" thing about NYFA is their marketing department. Haha and it was a NYFA teacher who said that.
Robert Widdowson
I took the 1-year online screenwriting course. In theory it sounded perfect for me, since I wasn't in a position to go to school full-time. I had high hopes. On the positive side, I did learn the basic principles of screenwriting. Also, I finished a first draft of a film script, which was pretty cool. The discipline of meeting weekly to report on my progress helped me achieve my goal. I wish my review could end there, on a positive note. But on the negative side, I found the instructor extremely rude to anyone who didn't agree with their opinions 100%. The person often ridiculed students and dismissed their contributions. The surly attitude shut down conversation more than once. I have a Masters degree, and have been a student in several schools as an adult - and I have encountered only a few instructors as abrasive as this person. (That's saying a lot, considering how arrogant many professors are!) Also, the instructor was late to class more than once. To be fair, the person did make it up, by extending the classroom time. Still, when you've arranged for child-care, it's a drag to sit and wait in front of your computer, while your instructor fumbles around, making half-baked excuses why they were late. I have kids at home who play the same tricks in an attempt to evade their responsibilities, I don't need my screenwriting instructor doing the same! Worse yet, the instructor once shared personal information about their family of origin that was unnecessary to the classroom context. (We paid a hefty tuition fee to learn screenwriting skills, not to hear sad facts about this person's childhood. Hey, we all have a few sad memories about childhood! Get over it! An online classroom is not the place for a paid instructor to share personal memories). I would have been more sympathetic to their plight if they had been a nice human being from the beginning. They weren't nice, so I'm not sympathetic. Finally, the instructor went back on a promise they had made to me during a classroom session. Another student hadn't come to the online class, and we were scheduled to read their script. So I volunteered to submit my rough draft - with the understanding that I could re-submit my script once it was finished, for another classroom review. The instructor agreed to those terms - but went back on their agreement a few weeks later. When I questioned the instructor about it, my concern was dismissed. So, I copied the transcribed conversation in which the instructor made the promise. They replied that they were way too busy to give each student individual attention! (Then why make the promise in the first place?). My poor rating is entirely based on the habitually unprofessional conduct of the instructor. The actual course content was very, very good. Had someone else - with a good work ethic, a sense of punctuality, and a commitment to personal and professional integrity - taught the course, then I would have given NYFA a perfect score. So, although I'm indebted to NYFA for helping me acquire basic screenwriting skills, and giving me the opportunity to complete a rough draft, I found the personal conduct of the instructor a very serious obstacle to the learning experience. My suggestion to anyone who wants to enroll in an online screenwriting course: - Make sure the educational institution has a professional code of conduct - Make sure the school holds their instructors to that code If you can't afford the cost of tuition: - Buy a good book on screenwriting. It will give you the exact same info about skills that this course provided, at a fraction of the cost - Enroll in a writing class at your local community center, where you can find like-minded people who will hold you accountable as you write your next project -Keep writing! Don't give up. Update: It's 2023; July 2024; March 2025
Felipe Vásquez-Encamilla
Excellent Professional Conservatory to learn Film, Acting and Musical Theatre. Awesome teachers, wonderful environment. Pic is from one of NYFA's room.
How to reach NYFA I New York Film Academy
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Why NYFA I New York Film Academy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at NYFA with your friends?
NYFA, the New York Film Academy, is a uniquely inspiring place to gather with friends for a memorable experience grounded in creativity, collaboration, and immersion in the arts. This is not just an educational institution but a vibrant hub where art lovers and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and visual artists come together to push boundaries and bring their creative dreams to life. Rallying here with friends means stepping into a community charged with passion and energy, where you can share in the excitement of discovering new skills or watching compelling student films and performances. The academy’s location in New York City adds an extra layer of vibrancy and cultural richness that naturally sparks creativity. This environment makes it perfect for a group meetup because it encourages connection through shared interests, hands-on artistic activities, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Whether you and your friends want to engage in creative workshops, witness student performances, or simply soak up the artistic atmosphere, NYFA offers a dynamic setting that encourages socializing and collaboration among creative minds.
What activities can you enjoy at NYFA that make it ideal for group meetups?
NYFA offers a wide array of activities tailored to inspire and engage groups looking for a dynamic meetup experience. Students and visitors alike can participate in specially designed events such as guest speaker lectures featuring celebrated industry professionals, giving attendees the chance to learn directly from experts. The academy also hosts student competitions like “Broadway Comes to Battery,” which includes singing and performance challenges that entertain and involve audiences. For those interested in film, there are frequent student film screenings, festivals, and showcases that provide a unique insider look at emerging talent and original storytelling. This schedule of events fosters a community atmosphere where friends can share impressions, critique works, and even meet aspiring filmmakers and actors. Beyond scheduled events, NYFA clubs and organizations cover everything from dance troupes and improv groups to gaming clubs and cultural associations, offering multiple group activities that encourage participation and teamwork. These clubs meet regularly, providing a natural way for groups to engage in shared passions and develop their skills together.
How does NYFA’s environment support creative collaboration for groups?
NYFA excels in creating an environment that encourages collaboration and collective creativity, making it a prime destination for groups. The school’s philosophy of “learning by doing” immerses participants from day one, fostering hands-on engagement that is more rewarding when experienced together. Many of the programs and workshops are structured around project-based learning, meaning groups can immediately collaborate on film productions, acting scenes, or artistic projects. This approach not only accelerates skill acquisition but builds strong bonds through shared creative challenges. Moreover, NYFA’s on-campus clubs and organizations allow groups to find niche communities aligned with their interests, from cultural clubs to performance groups, further enhancing collaborative spirit. The academy also supports community outreach and volunteering opportunities, where groups can give back while sharpening their creative talents, adding a meaningful dimension to meetups. With access to professional equipment, studio space, and the support of industry-seasoned faculty, groups can take advantage of a fully equipped creative setting rarely found in typical meetup venues.
What kind of workshops and courses can you participate in as a group at NYFA?
NYFA offers an impressive variety of workshops and courses ideal for groups with diverse interests in film, media, and performing arts. Short-term workshops range from one week to a semester and cover subjects like filmmaking, acting for film, screenwriting, photography, 3D animation, and game design. These workshops are designed for both absolute beginners and those looking to deepen their craft, meaning friends at various skill levels can find common ground and meaningful learning experiences. Many workshops are hands-on and project-based, encouraging teamwork among participants to create films, scripts, or performances collaboratively. NYFA also offers youth camps for teens and kids, making it suitable for family meetups where younger participants can explore their artistic interests in a structured yet fun environment. Some workshops come with scholarship opportunities, adding accessibility for groups interested in exploring the arts intensively. These programs are often taught by industry professionals and provide valuable insights, making group participation both educational and inspiring.
How does the social scene at NYFA enrich a meetup with friends or family?
The social scene at NYFA is as vibrant and engaging as its academic offerings, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to any meetup. The academy is home to a variety of student-led clubs and organizations that cater to numerous interests, including cultural groups, performance troupes, and social activism communities. These clubs often organize events, volunteer opportunities, and social gatherings that integrate education with social fun. Friends or family groups can attend performances, dance shows, and screenings that showcase student work, turning any meetup into an inspiring cultural experience. The NYC location also means fabulous nearby dining and nightlife options, allowing meetups to extend beyond the campus into the city’s rich social tapestry. NYFA regularly hosts alumni events and networking sessions that can connect visitors with an impressive creative community, opening pathways for ongoing collaborations and friendships. This blend of social, creative, and professional opportunities ensures a meetup here is never just a casual hangout but an enriching and memorable event that builds lasting connections.
How does NYFA’s community outreach enhance the group experience?
NYFA’s commitment to community outreach adds a unique dimension to group meetups by integrating social impact with creative expression. The school supports programs like the Make A Film Foundation, which teams young people facing critical illnesses with film industry mentors to create meaningful film legacies. Groups visiting NYFA can learn about and even get involved in such inspiring initiatives, adding a sense of purpose to their experience. The academy also partners with organizations like The Actor’s Fund to support young performers, and it offers workshops that focus on leadership and collaborative skills. Participating or volunteering in these community programs can be a powerful bonding experience for groups, fostering empathy and teamwork while developing artistic skills. This outreach underscores NYFA’s holistic approach to education—one that values creativity not just as a craft, but as a way to contribute positively to society. For groups seeking more than just entertainment, these opportunities make NYFA a place where meaningful memories and impact are created together.
Why is NYFA’s New York campus uniquely suited for hosting your group meetup?
Situated in the heart of New York City, NYFA’s campus benefits from the city’s unparalleled energy, cultural diversity, and artistic innovation, making it an ideal backdrop for group meetups. NYC is a global creative hub with world-class museums, theaters, and entertainment venues right at your doorstep, allowing groups to blend campus activities with exploration of the city’s vibrant arts scene. The campus itself offers state-of-the-art facilities, including theaters, sound stages, and editing suites that provide an authentic film and media production experience. This combination of an inspiring urban setting and professional-grade resources means a group meetup here is both stimulating and practical for those interested in the arts. NYFA also fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring visitors feel welcomed and connected in what can often be an intimidating metropolis. Whether your group is seeking to make films, enjoy performances, or simply engage with fellow creatives, NYFA’s New York campus offers a uniquely supportive and exciting environment that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.