Much as we'd love to give you carte blanche to be as edgy as you'd like, the legal guys said we had to post these caveats--but don't worry; the real fun is finding creative ways around them.
- What is Froshlife?
- Who is eligible to participate?
- What are the rules?
- Do I have to be good with computers to be a part of Froshlife?
- How do I get on a team?
- How much time do we get to make our movie?
- What is the deadline for turning in completed movies?
- Can we use our own editing software, or do we have to use iMovie?
- Can we enlist the assistance of friends from other dorms or upperclassmen?
- Can we use copyrighted music in the soundtrack of our movie?
- When and where will the premiere take place?
- What can we win?
- What is Froshlife?
Froshlife is a digital video event for first-year students sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs, the Office of Information Technology, and Apple Computer. Participants depict some aspect of their student life and get to experience the ease and power of digital moviemaking. We give your dorm-based team the computers, cameras, editing software, and training; all you have to do is script, cast, film, and edit. At the end, the Froshlife iMovie Festival will show off team submissions at a premiere in Richard White Auditorium. Plus, the top entries (as decided by a panel of judges) will win highly desirable prizes for themselves and their dorm.
back to top - Who is eligible to participate?
Only Duke first-year students may participate and are eligible for prizes.
back to top - What are the rules?
Read the complete rules here. Rule violators are subject to disqualification.
back to top - Do I have to be adept with computers to be a part of Froshlife?
No! Froshlife is a team-based event that allows you to contribute your strengths and interests to the project. There's room for everybody on your Froshlife team.- Extrovert? Great! Put yourself in front of the lens and mug for the camera.
- Got a great imagination? Draw up a storyboard and propose the story to your team.
- Organization nut? Be the head of production on your crew and keep people on task.
back to top - How do I get on a team?
During study breaks on December 10, 11, and 12 between 9 and 10 p.m., we'll be visiting East campus dorms to show last year's movies and give you a chance to find out what Froshlife is all about. Dates for each dorm will be posted in your hall. We'll have snacks, so come early!
At the study break, you can express your interest by filling out the sign up form. You're not obligated to participate; we'll just add your name and e-mail to the list of people from your hall that are also interested, and put you in touch with each other. (Don't worry; we won't spam you) From there on out, it's up to you to form your team.
Only one team per dorm is allowed. Don't worry if you don't know the other people who want to do Froshlife in your hall -- you'll get to know them over two weeks of crazed moviemaking! You and your team will need to meet, agree on the movie you want to shoot, pick roles and jobs for all each teammate, and plan your project. This is probably the most challenging part of the contest. If you can make it through this, it's smooth sailing to the finish. We'll give you technical support all along.
back to top - How much time do we get to make our movie?
We'll hand out laptops and digital video cameras at the kickoff event on Wednesday, January 30. You'll keep the equipment for three weeks (from January 28 through February 18). All shooting and editing must take place during that time. Feel free to start developing story and script ideas now!
back to top - When and how do we turn in our completed movie?
The exact date, time, location, and format for turning in your movie will be announced at the kickoff event on January 28. Traditionally, teams turn in their equipment and movies at the same time, immediately after the production period ends (this year, that would be February 18). We will send you this info in writing via e-mail, so check your mail regularly.
back to top - Can we use our own editing software, or do we have to use iMovie?
You may use whatever means you like to edit your movie. If you want to cut it together using duct tape and safety scissors, that's pretty much up to you (but we don't recommend it). Your entry needs to be in the appropriate format so we can evaluate it and compile it for the big premiere in February. Last year's grand prize winners produced their entry with all the stock Froshlife tools: an Apple laptop, iMovie software, and our digital video cameras. Don't worry about the software; it's the vision that counts.
back to top - Can we enlist the assistance of friends from other dorms or upperclassmen?
Not in any significant capacity. Froshlife is a contest about working with the people who live with you - other first-years in your residence hall. This is your chance to do something uniquely frosh and bring glory to your team and hall. Keeping it team- and frosh-based is the best way to do that.
back to top - Can we use copyrighted music in the soundtrack of our movie?
Yes, although your movie won't come out ahead based on creativity and originality. The soundtrack is a great way to make your entry stand out. Consider using Apple's Garageband program at the Multimedia Project Studio to make an original musical statement. You might also consider working with one of Duke's many fine independent bands.
back to top - When and where will the premiere take place?
The tentative date for the premiere is Sunday, February 24th at Richard White Auditorium. We'll place ads in the Chronicle as the time draws nearer. Be sure to invite 100 of your closest friends for a chance to see you on the big screen (and maybe even win a prize)!
back to top - What can we win?
We're not announcing official prizes yet, but last year's event featured great rewards for participants and winning residence halls. All Froshlife team members receive a one-of-a-kind t-shirt (note: special event tees are highly prized items at Duke).
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Questions? Contact the Froshlife Team.
