Creative exchange: Students film in Potsdam and Winston-Salem!

Creative exchange: Students film in Potsdam and Winston-Salem!

The ninth exchange between the Potsdam Film University and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) ended on June 10, 2025. Students from both universities had the opportunity to test their creative skills in Winston-Salem by making a short film each. This collaboration not only enables the practical implementation of film techniques, but also provides valuable insight into different cultural approaches to filmmaking.

The exchange, which was launched in 2017, has to date attracted over 60 students from the UNCSA School of Filmmaking, who have been able to work together with their fellow students from Potsdam. A key component of the program is financial support from the Semans Art Fund, which has pledged an upfront payment of $20,000 per year for 2026, 2027 and 2028 to support future projects. These resources are crucial as previous participation was often self-funded, which posed challenges for many students.

Artistic exchange and further training

The latest exchange included joint screenings and celebrations that offered participants a platform to present their work and share experiences. A tour of the media city of Babelsberg was also organized, while Berlinale boss Tricia Tuttle held a discussion about current trends in festival events and the perspectives of the young generation of filmmakers. Such initiatives emphasize the importance of personal and artistic exchange, especially in times of political tension.

Students from UNCSA and the Konrad Wolf University were given the opportunity to learn European filmmaking techniques that differ significantly from the Hollywood techniques taught in the United States. In the spring, Konrad Wolf University students also have the opportunity to travel to UNCSA to experience American independent film production up close. This mutual educational experience provides a valuable broadening of the participants' horizons.

A look into the future

The positive response to this exchange is already leading to the planning of the tenth exchange, which is planned for 2026. Announcements regarding the call for proposals will be made at the beginning of the winter semester. Founded in 1993 and now teaching over 350 students in a variety of disciplines, UNCSA is the 8th best film school in the United States according to The Hollywood Reporter, as well as the highest-ranked public university on that list. It was also named one of the best film programs by Variety and therefore enjoys an excellent international reputation.

The commitment of the faculty, who have extensive practical experience, also ensures a strong mentorship culture that benefits students. Such exchange projects are not only important for the personal and artistic development of the students, but also for the cultivation of international relationships in the field of film.