1. Why did you choose a minor at the School of Cinematic Arts?

I had always wanted to write a screenplay, but I kept putting it off. I decided to minor in screenwriting because I needed direction to motivate me. I’m a much better and more efficient writer because of it.

2. How does your cinematic arts program help in pursuing your major area or study or your intended profession?

The cinematic arts program has helped me think more critically about the media I consume. The process of questioning assumptions is important to sociology, and applying that to movies is really interesting.

3. Is there a project you are working (or have completed) that you're especially proud of?

I am in the process of re-writing a feature I first outlined before arriving at USC. It’s really gratifying work as I get to see how I have improved as a writer since joining SCA. It’s a small thing, but it’s a nice reminder that I’ll continue to get better.

4. Is there any difficulty in studying cinema that you were unprepared for, and how did you address it?

The process has been much more collaborative than I realized. I used to think of writing as a much more solitary process and it took me some time to adjust to this new way of doing things.

5. What advice do you have for other USC students who want to minor in the cinematic arts?

You might be intimidated at first, but don’t worry. I’m pretty sure everyone is just pretending to know what they’re doing.

Sanford Grossman is Sociology Major from South Pasadena, California