When I sit down and write something (anything), I normally can’t write without a title. For me, the title points me in a direction and tells me where to go. And in this instance I thought of a decent title, forgot it, and then came up with another (decent) one. The first forgotten gem was “Carpe Diem: 5 Things You Should Do at Full Sail University-Orlando” But with the title already set, and the introduction about to be wrapped up, it looks like we’re just running to print.
5. Full Sail’s campus is a college, museum and theme park, rolled into one.
Walking around Full Sail can take an entire weekend. They’re in the entertainment industry, and they’re a private school, so you know there’s some serious skrilla floating around behind the scenes somewhere. Full Sail is now a giant filming hub for World Wrestling Entertainment,they have a hand in the syndication of the television program The Daily Buzz,andcampus upgrades include additions like the Sports Lab Powered by ESPN. None of this is any secret; it can all be found on Full Sail’s Wikipedia page. But if you’re a student there, take advantage and check some of this stuff out.
4. Mangia! Eat good, live good.
Personally, I love food and I love to eat. I guess it’s become a guilty pleasure, so sue me. Everybody’s got their kryptonite; mine’s Mexican food. Some good pico – Mmmm, that’s my jam. Anyway, Full Sail’s campus has some very nice spots to grub, and the campus is close to some good local haunts. Personal favorite – Miller’s Ale House is right on campus. Best fish tacos in town and with $5 appetizers and 2 pints of PBR for $3, they’re a friend to the starving artist. Options are bountiful though. Sonny’s BBQ and Crispers are on campus and La Granja (excellent Cuban cuisine) is across the street.
3. The Hall of Fame: what’s it all about?
In 2009 Full Sail unveiled its Hall of Fame to commemorate the school’s 30-year anniversary. I spoke to one student who attended the event and it sounded pretty sweet. A few famous faces were spotted and some notable alumni gave speeches. The Hall of Fame is now a beautiful display on campus, paying tribute to its notable graduates and their achievements. My roommate just went to this year’s induction ceremony and said it was off the chain. But don’t take my word for it; see for yourself.
2. Network, a lot.
This is where we say Carpe Diem. In an industry where it’s (kind of) all about Who You Know, there is literally no limit to the amount of networking you can do as a Full Sail student. Yeah it’s cool to meet new people and all, but in the entertainment business you have one goal – to work. It’s beyond competitive, and a job is like a winning lotto ticket. So make connections on campus – talk to professors, alumni, students, program directors – anyone who will listen. Pretend you’re running for mayor, but with the finesse of a surgeon instead of the sleaziness of a politician. It could land you your dream gig one day.
1. Get involved and have fun!
The programs are intense, and the industry is competitive, but it’s the entertainment business and everyone is about having a good time. I make this last point from personal experience, despite never attending Full Sail. Get involved with students and their projects. If you’re in recording arts, then you may never get to really hang out and mess around in the green screen room. Make friends with a film student, they always need extras for projects.
If you’re interested in Full Sail University, check out our story on 5 Things to Know About Full Sail University-Orlando.
Joshua Pellis – 2013 UCF Graduate, B.S. Political Science