In an exciting chapter of their commitment to educational excellence and the tireless pursuit of global opportunities, our Santa Monica students, along with students from other schools, embarked on an inspiring journey to the prestigious Vancouver Film School ( VFS) in Canada. During two weeks full of enriching experiences, they explored new academic and cultural frontiers, reinforcing their potential and establishing lasting international ties.
The trip not only benefited students individually, but also strengthened institutional ties. Exclusive scholarship agreements were established for all ITJ Santa Monica students at VFS, guaranteeing that access to quality education is not an economic barrier. Additionally, a personalized program was created in conjunction with the VFS Regional Directors for students who choose film as part of the IB program, in order to certify what they learned in the International Baccalaureate and begin forging their path in the film industry.
El viaje no solo benefició a los estudiantes individualmente, sino que también fortaleció los lazos institucionales. Se establecieron convenios de becas exclusivas para todos los estudiantes de ITJ Santa Mónica en VFS, garantizando que el acceso a la educación de calidad no sea una barrera económica. Además, se creó en conjunto con los Directores Regionales de VFS un programa personalizado para los estudiantes que elijan el cine como parte del programa IB, con el fin de certificar lo aprendido en el bachillerato internacional y comenzar a forjar su camino en la industria cinematográfica.
In summary, the trip of our students from ITJ Santa Monica to the VFS School in Canada marked a watershed in the search for international learning opportunities and the development of their maximum potential. As students return home with a suitcase full of invaluable experiences, their vision and ambitions have been greatly expanded, paving the way for a bright future full of possibilities.
Testimonials:
“I think we formed more than friendships, I really think that in the end we all felt like a family that we still have so many experiences and anecdotes together, that I can't wait to live them. I had never been so happy as on the trip, we saw things from movies, cinema, actors, makeup, everything was like a Disney for us. And in the end I feel that those two weeks helped us to have friendships and relationships with people with our same tastes, problems and passions; For the first time I felt alive and I felt like I could be myself.” -Daniel
“It was a very nice experience, the truth is I never thought I would have an opportunity like this, I reinforced what I already knew and learned new things that will help me in the future. I also wouldn't change the friends I made for anything, for the first time in a long time I felt part of a group, such talented and creative people who I hope to continue seeing. I really appreciate this whole experience and everyone who supported and took care of us all. I love you very much ❤️”. – René
“FS, it was a great experience in which we were not only able to explore a film school that confirmed our passion for it, but also meet a group of people with similar tastes who in two weeks became our family. Two weeks that I wouldn't change for anything, I love them❤️” -Karla
The alliance between VFS and The Thomas Jefferson is an opportunity to combine theoretical learning and analysis with practice, based on the processes of the entertainment industry. Students will have an international, multicultural experience that will allow them to better evaluate their career selection. We hope to achieve a link that strengthens the development of Thomas Jefferson students in the academic and professional area. – Barbara Martinez. Director, International Admissions & Business Development for Latin America at Vancouver Film School.
