As a part of the Mass Communications program, each student is required to earn 150 "Crew Points" during their stay at NNU (pro-rated for transfer students). 

You earn Crew Points in several ways, but mostly by working on the crew for departmental shoots, and the shoots of other students.  For instance, when the department rents a 48 foot production truck and spends 16 hours shooting a music video, you'll receive one crew point for every hour you help out in any capacity.

Crew Points are also given for special educational opportunities which are not part of any class.  This might include a trip to the Sundance Film Festival, going to a particular film in Boise, attending a weekend seminar, etc.

Students who earn more than the required 150 points are eligible for special achievment awards -- the Bronze, Silver and Gold Slate awards.  These come with both a trophy and a letter from the Department Chair for inclusion with your resume'.

Crew Points are also used to help determine which students get to go to Sundance, which are "first in line" for special opportunities, in the Teaching Assistant scholarship selection process, and for other special considerations.  In other words, those who have the most points, get the best opportunities.

Why did we institute Crew Points?  Several reasons:

• To maximize your on-the-job experience while attending NNU
• To reward you for the time you spend helping other students and the department
• To keep you "plugged in" to the program, even during those semesters when you don't have specific media classes
• To help you experience the collaboration so vital to our industry
• To help you develop a work ethic attractive to future employers
• To give you opportunities beyond the limits of formal class sessions

Still in High School?  You can begin earning Crew Points even now!  Click Here to find out how.