This is a great site, and thanks for all the useful advice on here already. I have searched for this first, but didn't find exactly what I am looking for.

I am a 29 year old transfere student. I have an associates degree already in TV Broadcast and production. I am looking to go back to school, and I am looking at USC, UCLA, NYU, Columbia, and Arts Academy of San Fran.

I want a curriculum where it's very hands on. I am looking for something that gives everyone a chance to direct, and I think USC doesn't allow that until you're a graduate, maybe Im wrong. I don't know. What do you think?

Also, some of these schools are for fall of 2010, some will take me spring of 2010. Anything I should be doing in the down time?

okay, I have done some more research, and most of those schools are going to be out of my budget. What does anyone think about the differences between the Art Institute of Hollywood/Los Angeles/San Fransico and the Academy of Arts University of San Fransico?