I really liked how the program was structured, it taught me all of the tools needed to launch a successful career. It also gave me a wide variety of skills, so I could choose what to specialize in. I also really like how dedicated the school is at finding a job that is a perfect fit for me. Overall I really liked and enjoyed my experience at F.I.R.S.T. Institute. I personally recommend them if you are looking for a quality education at a good cost. 👍

Such a great school! I graduated from F.I.R.S.T Institute in the Film program and I loved my whole experience. I got a job in my field 2 weeks before I even graduated and my teacher was there to help me every step of the way. Jamile was an incredible teacher but he was so much more than that to all of us, he made us feel so welcome and like we were all a little family. My only regret is not going to school on campus because the campus is so cool, everything hands on you can think of. Definitely recommend first if you’re in the Orlando area and want to get into the industry.

Its a great school and all the teachers are passionate about what they do. I like how you You cant just run through the course without learning anything. Even with subjects I wasnt to fond of I still found myself retaining a lot of knowledge about said subjects from what I was assigned to do. They teach you very important and interesting things about the audio industry and really drill home that theres opportunities everywhere in it.

Wonderful experience. The staff and teachers are super friendly and helpful, and the courses are condensed so you can expect to be out and applying for jobs in a relatively small amount of time.Whats more, they even offer assistance in this regard through the career development department! I highly recommend this school.

Honestly, going to this school was the best decision I have ever made. The attention to detail, to the friendly staff, and knowledge in the field of study is incredible. Ive built so many connections through this school, and have met some of the best people Ive ever met. If youre thinking about joining one of the programs, Id say do it. I had been to so many other campuses and colleges, and this institute has by far been the most productive and interactive with its students, even after graduation.

As a recent graduate of this school, I promise you that its worth the experience and time. If youre looking for a school that is worth your time and money while.getting real world experience in the entertainment industry, look no further. The instructors are great, youll meet some great students youll want to work with, and overall it was worth the time. If you wanna take your dreams seriously, theyll take you seriously.

Going to First was great experience. They gave me the confidence and knowledge I was lacking. It’s not easy to fallow your heart the arts is something people don’t think a living can be made from. Which is crazy because the arts shape our world. I did the film program at First and enjoyed the information the Professors had to offer. It’s not just reading books all day it’s really knowledge hands on experience. I recommend First to anyone who has a love for film but lack the skill or confidence. This school provides both plus some good friends along the way.

I really really enjoy school more than I ever have coming to FIRST Institute. From the first day all the way until the very last was all in with creativity and hands in learning, I absolutely loved the environment administration and teachers they always make sure that the students are engaged with the subject at hand and are very fluent with the material and they are always ready to dissect anything for you to better understand it. I really don’t think I would’ve gotten this experience anywhere else!

I would like to invite some of you who want to grow up on the industry First is the good place to be and learn safely and enjoy what you want to do in your life dont wait to go and learn at first institute, I did learn a lot and they keep you in track to make sure after you finish graduate you have and get something in the industry. I strongly recommend first

Going to FIRST was probably one of the best things I could do in terms of finding a school that was going to give me right information and tools to start up my career in film. The staff is incredible and you waste no time getting hands-on with the gear. Tons of internship and post-grad opportunities, definitely recommend over a four or two year university, especially when it comes to cost and time.

I loved the hands on education you get in each class. You learn about video cameras, lighting, how to act on a gig and other basics to get you started in the field. Plus the school is open to students who want to come in and put in some extra time and rent out equipment for gigs outside the school.

This has been a great experience. They make you feel like family 😊

This place became a haven for what I thought were tarnished dreams. I became a self-taught freelancer in Graphic Design and Website development years ago and had reached a ceiling in my career. I had no formal education and my first attempt at higher education cost me more than I gained. Until Kathryn from FIRST gave me a tour. I was sold... Not too long after a few seamlessly simple phone calls to comb out my enrollment, came the first day of the rest of my life. FIRST Institute introduced me to a world where everyday people live their dreams and perform in their passions. The faculty and Staff are really invested in their careers yet they still find time in their busy professional schedules to create a safe, kind, thoughtful, and progressive place for technical learning. Class sizes are intimate and active, making individualized attention easy and group learning can be most effective. It’s a magical place. In 11 months, I had a head start and unlimited resources on the career that I thought had left me behind. And even as a graduate, FIRST Institute still makes me a priority, assisting in my post graduation career placement and financial planning. If you’re interested in an affordable education where you can really gain proficiency in the entertainment media industry... THIS IS A SAFE BET!! To Donny, Alan, Kathryn, Jon, T’Shela, Michelle,Samantha, Freddie, Wes, Lisa, Rachelle, Wes, Dave and most of all Brandon HW, You’ve helped me reignite the Fuel in My Fire... THANK YOU FIRST INSTITUTE!!

Graduated a month ago :( awesome school. Some things could be improved but overall definitely not upset about my experience:)

My experience with First institute was really amazing I really enjoyed every activity and every challenge they gave me. The teachers that are their are incredible they bond with the students very well they give different secrete ways we can do things they also motivate us to get to where we want to be.First institute you are the best thank you for taking me in to your school and showing me the path to success🙏🏾🙏🏾

Great school, amazing instructors. If you didn’t know anything about film coming into this school you will definitely have that knowledge by the time you graduate.

When I came to F.I.R.S.T I didn’t know anything about the audio industry. I didn’t know what a DAW meant, but now it all makes sense and I had a great time at FIRST. Thank God I found this school.

A great school. Highly recommended.

Straight forward into the knowledge, hands on, and fun. Was definitely well worth graduating from FIRST Institute! I would attend the classes again if it was free.

Fun learning experience. Trusting instructors, students of all ages, and intense projects.

I used to think that I could get somewhere in audio production by watching videos every day, but I eventually hit a wall in what I was able to learn and do. I eventually gave in and applied to FIRST, not knowing what to expect or if it was worth the money. The application process was easy and the financial aid department helped with every step in getting the money I needed and even found me a scholarship! The instructors are knowledgeable and have so much information and experience to share. Ive discovered new audio fields that Im interested in perusing a career in and feel much more confident in myself as an engineer than I did before enrolling. It was very much worth the money and time invested to help me move forward in finding a career I love.

Great school if youre trying to learn a lot about audio engineering, from working in a studio to working live performances (check out my YouTube @813Marvin B. For an example of how it helped me 😎)

First time here. Today was open house so we got to view the facility. Of course everyone is nice and friendly and they tell you where theyve worked how theyve done things whats going to happen when you get there. For anything that is music-related it is an 11-month course and after that you graduate and they help you find a job. A lot of them have worked for Cirque du Soleil Disney Blue Man Group Etc. The building itself is not that big but there are several different Studios for everything. You learn music theory you learn how to make sound you learn how to mix sound you learn how to do sound effects and by the end you should know how to recreate sound for a movie or song. There are several teachers there that have either returned as alumni and began teaching or their children went there and they decided to teach theres also several people that have Grammy nominations. They do not have dorms which is a downside of this facility. There is no shuttle that goes from the apartments to the school either. Which is a very big downside for me since I have a female child. The parking lot is big. They do have several teachers that are from Canada and Britain. Check out my pictures and videos for more information.

Our sons are starting this school in October. Our experience so far has been amazing. The staff is personable and you get the sense that everyone truly loves there job and this isnt just a paycheck. The financial aid process was the quickest I had ever experienced. Claire, Jenna, Jason all amazing! The teacher Tim has been invested from the beginning and I am looking forward to his teaching leadership and teamwork to our sons. The Career Counselor presentation was encouraging. I am excited to see what will be the end result for our sons in the Film & Music Recording Industry.

This school has amazing instructors that know the music industry inside and out. I had an amazing time learning from the instructors as they would give us great tips and teach the rights and wrongs in their stories. I also really loved the size of the classes, because I go to do a lot more hands on learning then I anticipated.With me going to this school I got to make a bunch of friends that also loved to create not only music, but other things such as art through film making and digital design. I will be working with them in the future.Lastly I grew not only in my career, but as a person. They taught me that working in the industry that I went there for was never going to be easy, so they will challenge you through real world scenarios. Thats why I love to say that I appreciate the amount of time they give you to do your 40 hours of internship in the field of your career. Thank you F.I.R.S.T. Institute,Proud graduate 2020!

Am enrolled and the program for RASP has been a game changer and the school is reasonably affordable....

Great hands on experience on an array of career fields in audio practice. Solid instructors, staff, and courses. Going in with an already established understanding in recording arts. I gained a more solid structural fundamental and application on all fields of study. I hope to have a foot in the door for studios in Film, Games, and overall Music Production & overall Vocal performances.

The lesson structure and classes speed was perfect. The only complaint I have is when gear breaks we dont learn how to fix it, but as a school I would Recommend anyone who wants to engage in the fields of study they provide to go here. It is very accurate to the information you need, the instructors are all high level with as much hands on with the equipment as you want and the career help service they share is top notch. I can still go there to this day for career help, attend the Friday workshops, or book time in one of the studios anytime I need.An Excellent School

This institute is great for everyone who wants to learn more about the music, movie, and graphics industry. They help you prepare with hands-on experience with the most used equipment in the industry.

This school exceeded every expectation of mine. My instructors where very personable and professional. The class sizes where perfect so every student got adequate instruction. The atmosphere of the school is great, everyone including students and staff are very welcoming and friendly. I highly recommend anyone looking for a future in audio, film or graphic design, consider First Institute for their education.

F.I.R.S.T. was my choice pick in delving into the world of graphic design, and I could not be happier. I ended with the position as President of FIRST Access, and made it with soaring colors due to the ever helpful persistence of my instructors and faculty, as well as a little boost from the other students.When it comes to school, this is more like a family if anything. Theres something special about the 11 months you spend here, and you need to make the most of it.

I graduated this month!!. Honestly, i have nothing but great things to say about this school. I always had a passion for music, however finding real knowledge out there is limited and varies. The teachers were all real world veterans who provide real world experience. Each course touches an aspect that can open a different door for you. The scheduling is flexible and fair. Like any other program you get out what you put in.In Recording Arts we covered not only how to use daws (Pro tools, logic) but took it beyond that to a real live session with a band, lights, stage, etc.I have a great network now with students who will all be future producers in their own right.All for a quarter of the price you would spend in another very popular school nearby 😎I highly recommend and wish FIRST continued success.Thanks for everything.

Great instructors, great staff, great classes too. Somewhat limited but the expedited course and hands-on lesson make up for it and are really helpful.

Going to F.I.R.S.I.T. Institute was the best college experience ever. I am so glad that I took a leap of faith and enrolled. If you are looking for a college that offers what F.I.R.S.T. Institute offers then this is the school for you. This was written by F.I.R.S.T. Institute October 2020 valedictorian.

My girlfriend recently graduated from the RASP program and says the school is a very good alternative to Full Sail University and is overall a more intimate experience where you are able to work closely with your instructor and the music equipment. She gives it 4 stars because there are some things this school could improve on, but for the price this school is a great choice. If you are reading this and are choosing between F.I.R.S.T. And Full Sail, do not choose Full Sail ($80,000 and you will be put in so much debt. Full Sail students have a bad rep in the music industry as well)I hope this review helps anyone who is looking for some beginning experience in the industry and knowledge about DAWs like Protools and Logic X and analog and digital mixers.

Amazing people. Amazing education. Great start to a career!

October 2020 graduating Class 293, best recording arts school in Orlando. I would do it again if i could.

Small classes and hands on! if you are open to the many opportunities of this industry and driven this is the place. The staff is amazing. I can say I have learned so much and gained more skills than I thought I would have.

I go to school here. It is a great place to start if you want to get in the entertainment industry with film or audio engineering.

It was great

I attended FIRST Institute to enhance my skills in “Recording Arts and Show Production” plus I had a lot of fun working and learning from my instructors. The staff and the instructors seems to care a lot about your future and your goals. I would highly recommend this college, because you get a lot of hands on experience and meet new friends in the process. The school is for 11 months and the best thing is that it’s affordable... Awesome! School

Great place to learn!! They start you off with the basics to running shows. Truly an amazing and supportive staff/learning environment. Hands on experience and practice. Whether its to strengthen your current skill set or begin, this school helps. If youre determined, creatively driven and open minded to what these industrys offer youll love First Institute. I honestly had a lot of fun with the teachers and class mates I had. We learned a lot from each other and its helpful to be around like minded people. I will say if you want to be a professional, come in with a mind set to apply yourself. Satisfied with this school.

Best Audio School, excellent instructors, I never though it was going to be such a great experience, I even got a job related to my career before graduation. If you are just looking to make your first step in to your career this is the best place. nothing beats the cost of this institution and the professionalism. They are my family now, I love First Institute

What ever you think the facilities may lack cause of the size of the school it makes up with an amazing staff. extremely knowledgeable and the class size being small it also helps because it creates a family atmosphere where you also learn not just for the teachers but from some students know may have hands on experiences. overall my experience in the F.I.R.S.T was unforgettable and It was also help in my personal project I do in my free time.

They are not what they seem to be. If youre sending your children to this school. You need to look elsewhere because the school is a charlatan.

Has anybody Got a job after graduation ??

FIRST Institute is a great way to get your foot in the door in whichever desired industry you have a passion in. You learn more than just the basics, you get some cool hands on training on top of them steering you in the right direction. Its worth the time.

Thank you all at First Institute. I miss everybody there! You guys have amazing instructors that are able to motivate young kids and adults to accomplish their goals. My instructors gave me the push to work harder and be sucessful. The way I took is no student left behind and that is greatly appreciated. I am happy to be part this great school.

I have been working at FIRST Institute since 2010 as an Instructor and now Program Director of the Recording Arts and Show Production program.FIRST offers a student centered education and one-on-one training for the students. Our instructors come from diverse backgrounds, training students in all fields of audio and preparing them for an entry level job in the industry.With the small class sizes, I am able to meet one-on-one with every student and have the opportunity to learn more about each students background and goals for their career. We maintain open communication during their schooling and I am able to help guide them through their education and career goals. This is a big part of why I love working at FIRST Institute.

Class sizes are really small. The professors are knowledgable and take the time to get you the skills you need. They still have some kinks to work out but overall it was a great experience

Great School with very professional instructors. Beautiful facilities and great equipment. Also will help you after graduating to find a job. I personally highly recommend this school.

As a graduate of the F.I.R.S.T. audio program; I cant say enough about this positive experience!From day 1 the staff were super knowledgeable and more importantly, helpful. I found it a little nerve racking when i first started because theres just so much to take in; but I was put at ease by the temperament & enthusiasm of our professors. The curriculum is structured in a manner that it is easy to build upon as you progress throughout the course; or to look back on in reference.I must say, one of the largest high-points is the class size. I have friends who attended different programs in the area, and their biggest complaints are always price & feeling lost in the crowd.It would be impossible at F.I.R.S.T.I had 8 people in my class.......8!That in itself is priceless. That meant I always had time to go over things a few times if I felt it necessary; and the professor ALWAYS had time for questions or to bounce ideas off of.No waiting in line to get on the mixing boards!Another aspect I really enjoyed was just after the half way point in the program, as we worked with the film students and local bands on hands on, real world applications.It really is a special little school (and a major plus Ive grown to learn ...It has a GREAT reputation in the professional field ).Also, all the staff have real world ties to the field.Best of all, being it is such small class sizes, you get to really know the like minded, creative types, the field/school attracts like a magnet.Again 5 stars!...If I had to do it again?...., sign me up in a heart beat!THANKS AGAIN F.I.R.S.T.!!!!

I’ve been enrolled here for about a month now and I could honestly say that I feel like the choice I made is going to be very beneficial for me in the long run. Overall the school definitely opens up opportunities and understands why you’re here, there’s a lot of talent and they want to see it put to work.

F.I.R.S.T institute has been one of the best decisions Ive ever made. For anyone looking to learn more about the audio or film industry, there is no better place than here. Small class sizes ensures maximum one on one training with professionals who are currently working in that field, and have been for between 5-20 years. The school is constantly being improved, growing in both the amount of class rooms/studios and updating course material. Administration has always been extremely professional and easy to work with.

I had a great experience at F.I.R.S.T. Institute! The instructors are working in the industry while teaching so they know what’s going on. The hands on training really prepares you for a real job as an engineer or freelance work.

This school means a lot to me.. it was my first step in music production.. and one of the greatest choices I have ever made.. every one at the school is very patient, and understanding.. it was like a one on one teaching style even with the rest of my class... they are the best choice to make when following your dreams in music or film production.. the F.I.R.S.T. Institute is the first and the last school you will ever need to start your music and film career...:)

F.I.R.S.T Institute is a really great place! I love the atmosphere. They have a really amazing team of instructors that go above and beyond to make sure every student gets what they need when it comes to learning the material and progressing forward in their careers. Really glad I chose this institute to further my career!

I graduated from F.I.R.S.T Institute in 2008. So much of where I am today professionally, is owed to the education I received while at this school. Ive been able to engineer, mix and produce on many great projects because of the wealth of knowledge I now have. Ill forever be grateful for the experience.

Going back to school was a challenging experience for someone my age. I wasn’t a good student in high school nor college.But First Institute was different, being that the curriculum was focused on what you needed to know.Eleven months and four nights a week was long, but when you have a passion for something it doesn’t seem like it.

Its an awesome school, the staff and instructors are very helpful and make much effort to help you be successful. If you want to be in the audio, film, or graphic designer industry I would highly suggest looking into F.I.R.S.T. Institute!

Great place for a hands on learning experience, from well experienced instructors.Good class sizes for a better learning environment. No fillers and very affordable. They give you the tools and skill set to forward your journey on accomplishing your goals and dreams.

This school is great. Amazing staff and teachers. The classes are fun and youll learn well through a hands-on experience. So far everything Ive learned is helping me mold into a professional graphic designer

I attended the Audio & music business courses while enrolled. Not only was it the smartest financial choice based on price, but the courses were amazingly well structured, the staff was passionate about audio, and the owners of the school (Alan & Donnie) were personable and flexible. Since graduating I have enjoyed full time employment in the music industry. My start was getting my foot in the door through an internship that was offered in the music business course. My knowledge of audio engineering, which I have the audio course to thank for, has helped me secure work time & time again. I could not think of any other school that would help you get your foot in the door faster & save you thousands of dollars that can beat the F.I.R.S.T. Institute.

This school is really amazing, great staff, great teachers and awesome and fun hands on experience. If you are the type of person that learns better hands on, then this is the school for you! Go here if you want to change your life and get in a amazing career field!

I am a F.I.R.S.T. Institite Alumni Graduated May 2019 from the “Recording Arts and Show Production” program. I believe this program is the most complete program available at the best possible price. I strongly recommend this School.Everything was excellent;- Teachers/Staff/Faculty- Program- Class size- Curriculum- Culture- School Facility- Real world scenario- Accelerated Program (saves you time and money)Im so glad to have gone to this school! They are awesome!!!

Graduated from FIRST in 2013. Small class sizes and personal time with friendly instructors gave me the building blocks to create professional etiquette and learning ability to secure a solid position as a high profile clientele live production engineer. John LaRosa is an extremely friendly and knowledgeable person that still keeps up with me after graduation and still invites me to work with him.

If you are serious about taking your career to a higher level. This is the best choice. With affordable tuition, smaller classes, flexible hours, awesome class projects, and an amazing staff! What more could you ask for!?! This school gave me the confidence and education I needed to land those entry level jobs and launch my career... F.I.R.S.T Institute has always stayed up to date while continuously improving their programs. For this price, there is NOWHERE you can get an education like this...

As a graduate, I definitely recommend F.I.R.S.T. Institute. The small class size allows for every student to get that one on one experience from their professors. These professors are also well seasoned in the industry and many are still working. Who better to learn from than those that are still working in the industry? If youre looking to start your career and are serious about the industry, make sure to check out F.I.R.S.T.

Great Great school I Have just enrolled for June 4th and started my class. Awesome professor and the school truly gives you their word that they will take you straight to the core of your major best decision I have ever made enrolling in this school.

I love the way they guide you and teach you everything you need for this real world career. The school has a really good environment and people are great, specially the instructors.

The F.I.R.S.T Institute by far was the best decision Ive made since high school. The teachers work around the clock and are more than happy to help with any questions or ideas for any personal projects outside of the school. The school has taught me no matter what the outcome may be, always give it 100%.

Thanks to First Institute and their instructors I was able to fulfill my career goals. Im currently working full time at record label as an Recording Engineer. Thanks to the tools the school provided Im able to live my dreams and do what I love for a living. Thanks First Institute!

My time at F.I.R.S.T. Institute was a fun one. I learned a lot from the fantastic teachers there and built my portfolio in no time. I entered the program with some knowledge, and left with a strong foundation of design skills. I was a student in the Graphic Design and Web Development program there. Tshela and Brandon are incredibly knowledgable teachers and youll learn lots of tricks of the trade with them. There are a lot of opportunities to network and join really cool events throughout Orlando. The program is a solid 4/5 stars.

Over-all a great experience, would recommend to anyone trying to get into the industry.

Im really happy i choose this school..i enjoyed my time here, great instructors and lots of hands On learning.

I love the class size, it makes it very easy to get hands on experience. The amount of information and techniques Ive already learned just in two months is amazing.

Man dope school definitely would love to try to return as a student or an employee in the future!

Very committed instructors and staff that are ready to assist, teach, and breakdown hard to understand concepts.I took the film course for 11 months and it was really fast, really stuffed with alot of information and assignments. I left knowing alot more about cameras and film then when I started.

I enjoyed every moment of attending F.I.R.S.T. Institute! As a student, I was hired full-time while in school and owe everything to the incredible faculty!

Amazing teachers as well as setting. I met alot of people and made many friends along the way.

Awesome college!! It just the best if you are willing to put the work! 5 Stars - and its cheaper than full sail 😂🙏🏽

This institution is hands down the best school I have attended, always a hands on approach with the most up to date tools and technology. Great faculty and great environment.

Best Institute EVER.

Very talented instructors , they make sure you get the full understanding from everything to music theory to to MIDI to recording arts . They offer tutoring on there free time to catch you up.

Bad school i went there got a bunch of feds loan to pay with no job oportunity , i could have been better off learning from youtube and its free! Grattos ! Not recomended at all unless you want to make your credit score/ loans messed up .

This my second time coming to FIRST .First time was Audio program now i came back for the Film and Video program.Love it first day in class we are doing Hands on from start right out the gate.Class rooms are not to big either. And that worked well for me

VERY ATTENTIVE RIGHT TO THE POINT ADULT ATMOSPHERE CLASSES READY TO GO ALSO YOU CAN TAKE ADVANCE COURSES TO STAY UP TO DATE ON SOFTWARE.

Literally the best school, with the best staff. I want to go back!

BESSSTTTTT SCCHHOOLLL EVERRR FOR MUSIC PRODUCTION ❤️🔥🔥🔥

Best school highly recommended!!!!!!

I graduated from the RASP program (Recording Arts and Show Production). It was a great experince with great staff and knowledgeable teachers. The goal of the program is to prepare you for an entry level position in the industry and it does that very well. Not only that, it also introduces you to other areas of the industry that you may not of thought of looking into. Here is an overview of what we learn through the year ::- First we learned how to used DAWs like Logic and ProTools.- Then we go in to Recording Arts and move into a recording studio where we learned about signal flow and how to set up mics and run analog gear. We learn to record a solo artist and a band.- After that, we move into a digital studio for Sound for Visual Media. There we learn Foley, how to record dialogue, sound effects, create a score and so on. ( we spent a little line on Sound for video games but only a little )- Next is Advanced Audio techniques, where we learn about mixing and mastering.- Lastley, we move into Show Production where we learn how to set up, run and take down all the gear for a live show.It’s fast paced and it’s meant to give you a good understanding and preparation for going out there and getting an entry level job in the indurstry. In other words, you will be able to apply to work as a recording engineer, mixing engineer, boom operator, Monitor engineer, FOH, Audio Visual Tech and so on, but taking the program will not make you a professional right away and you will need to put in practice hours and do some internships.I decided to take the program because I am an artist and I wanted to learn to produce my own music. I’m this regard, only a little time was spent in class on Music theory, producing our own music and even Melodyne, but I now have incredible mentors, a wealth of resources and all the tools I need to keep working on my goal.If you choose to go to this school you won’t be disappointed. There are always activities you can be a part of and internship opportunities where you can improve your skills and most importantly meet like minded people. I now know people I will keep in contact with for many years to come. Everyone is helpful and is rooting for us to succeed.Hope this helps.

This school get you a guaranteed job, hands on job, the teachers is awesome! They help you no matter what they want you to make it just like them!

Great staff, great education, great connections! #class254 #Mar18

I love F.I.R.S.T. institute! I love going to this school!!

They accommodated me due to health issues and I was still able to graduate.A special thanks to F.I.R.S.T Institute.

An Amazing place to Learn and Connect

It’s a great school, to learn from.

First institute gives you best education for your career that you are seeking in the music industry

You learn so much everyday

Learn a lot about audio engineering.