RIFF and Georgia Highlands College

RIFF Student Film Academy Oct. 31, 2025

In 2024, more than 200 local high school juniors and seniors experienced the life-changing RIFF Student Film Academy, and this year we plan to welcome more than 220 students on October 31, 2025.

Each student attends the event free of charge because RIFF, industry leaders, community supporters and arts non-profit organizations are investing in their future.

Each student chosses their own path through the day from hands-on classes taught by academic leaders and industry pros. From film to advertising to digital gaming — each class employs discussion, demonstration and hands-on experience. By the day’s end, attendees undersstand the myriad education options in Northwest Georgia in film and digital media, and they take home information about scholarships, grants and loans available for digital media studies in Georgia.

Topics covered include scriptwriting, set-building, working with film equipment, how to prepare to become a part of the e-sports industry, how horror movies are much more than blood, guts and gore, and how corporate advertising provides a rewarding career.

Over lunch students enjoy the RIFF High School Student Film Competition submissions and vote on their favorites.

 

Hands-on Learning at the RIFF Student Academy

During lunch students watch the high school student film submissions & vote on their favorites.

Discussions with industry pros are part of the Academy.

Scholarships Supported Our 2024 Students:

The RIFF Student Film Academy is made possible through generous gifts from community members and companies who support our students.

  • Frank Barron

  • Leanne & Joe Cook

  • Jan & Phil Fergerson

  • Anna Garner

  • Beverly Kievman Copen

  • Linda Owens, generously gave multiple scholarships

  • High Tech Signs, generously gave multiple scholarships

 

Thanks to the Rome Area Council for the Arts for their generous support of this program through a 2024 grant.

And thank you to Greg Major and Chick-fil-A of Rome for a delicious, nutritious lunch, and to Phillip Gaines and Hi-Tech Signs for believing that education is the best way to ensure a bright future for Northwest Georgia.