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Want to go to film school? A chat with NYU Tisch student Noah Laforest

Noah Laforest is a senior at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, majoring in Film and Television with a minor in the Business of Entertainment, Media, and Technology.

Born and raised in Long Island, he is a writer/director with a focus on TV writing. He has gained industry experience at Milojo Productions and worked on various independent projects throughout New York City. Noah is committed to telling stories that audiences can deeply connect with, while also champignons underrepresented voices

He is currently creating his first TV Pilot Ti Blan.

Check out his instagram @noahpetion

Check out his TV Pilot @tiblan.series

1. What inspired you to apply to film school?

I’ve always had a passion for storytelling. Growing up, I loved creating stories for shows and films in my head. One day, while watching a film with my Mom, I got curious about how it was made, so I applied to a few film camps just for fun. That experience sparked something in me—I fell in love with the process of filmmaking, and that passion eventually led me to film school.

2. How did the reputation of Tisch influence your decision to apply, and did you have any other schools in mind?

Tisch’s reputation as a top film school definitely influenced my decision. It’s known for its hands-on approach, incredible faculty, and alumni who’ve left a huge mark on the industry. I knew it would push me creatively and professionally. Honestly, I couldn’t see myself going anywhere else, and even now, I have no regrets. Tisch’s reputation does come with a lot of pressure, but it’s the kind of pressure that drives you to do your best.

3. How would you describe the culture at Tisch, both creatively and academically?

The culture at Tisch is collaborative and supportive. You’re surrounded by people with such diverse voices and visions, and it’s a place where you’re encouraged to experiment. The environment can be intense, and the pressure can sometimes get to you, but you also have the chance to dive into every aspect of filmmaking—whether that’s writing, directing, or production. Everyone here is passionate and driven, and that energy really pushes you to expand your boundaries and try new things.

4. In what ways do you feel Tisch has helped you grow as a filmmaker and artist?

Tisch has given me the structure to develop technical skills while also nurturing my artistic vision. Working on projects with classmates has made me a more collaborative filmmaker and boosted my confidence in my storytelling. Through challenging assignments and feedback from professors, I’ve learned how to tell stories that resonate deeply with me and, hopefully, with audiences. Recently, I’ve grown significantly as a writer and director, learning to pay attention to storytelling details that I might have overlooked before.

5. What resources or opportunities at Tisch have been most valuable for your education and career development?

The hands-on experience on student films has been invaluable, as have the classes taught by industry professionals. The networking opportunities, mentorships, and access to NYU’s extensive alumni network have all been huge assets for my school career. Internships in the city, like my time at Milojo, have given me real-world experience while still in school. Working on various thesis films and building connections with professors and their former students have also helped me grow tremendously.

6. How has living in New York City influenced your work as a film student?

Living in New York has been incredibly inspiring. The city’s diversity and creative energy have shaped my work by exposing me to a range of people, stories, and experiences. Being surrounded by so many creative minds and having access to art galleries and screenings keeps me constantly motivated and evolving. The city is a character in itself, and I often draw on real-life elements to add depth to my projects.

7. Can you share any memorable experiences or projects you’ve worked on during your time at Tisch?

One of my most memorable projects is my current student pilot, Ti Blan. It’s a deeply personal project inspired by my Haitian-American background, exploring themes of family, cultural identity, and personal growth. I’ve also worked on Dissonance and episodes for an NYU TV bootcamp web series, where I gained experience in both directing and screenwriting. These projects have been challenging but rewarding, helping me find my voice as a writer and connect my experiences with my art.

8. What advice would you give to someone considering applying to NYU Tisch for film?

Be open to discovery, both in your craft and in yourself. Tisch is challenging, but if you’re passionate about storytelling, it’s an amazing place to grow. Bring your unique voice, be prepared to collaborate, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The city and the school are full of opportunities, so take advantage of as many as you can—they’ll shape your journey. And build friendships that will last; those connections are priceless.