5 answers
Grace
Student
Riverside, California
1
Question
Asked
3268 views
How to get your first screenwriting internship as a college student?
Does networking with professors help? Do I apply online?
Login to comment
4 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Grace !
I had no idea that there were internships for screenwriters, this is great ! You will have to be a student in order to apply for a Screenwriting Internship and since you are in Riverside, I presume you are interacting with the Hollywood market.
Here are some I found for you: TV Academy Foundation Internships, Park Artist Groups (this one is remote), Atlanta Film Society Internship, and NBC Universal Internship Program. Do a search for them online and read how to apply.
Also look into contests, too. There is the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards Screenplay Contest, Los Angeles Screenwriting Competition, if you are enrolled in a Film School or a Film Department at a University check with your department to see what internships and competitions they offer at the campus, The Festival of Media Arts Student Script Writing Competition, Script Pipeline, ScreenCraft, Page International Screenwriting Awards, Finish Line Script Competition and I am sure that your professors can tell you of more or you can find more online. Each place has their own process for applying so you'll have to read their websites to know "how" to apply.
Yes, making a strong connection with your professors can be of great value and also support. One thing that I can also suggest is to self produce a short film so that you can build up your resume and reel now. It can be a short film, documentary short, but this will be a great boost to have at least one or two of your scripts in live action form. Classmates that are into directing and acting can help your stories take shape.
I hope this helps and I wish you all this best !
I had no idea that there were internships for screenwriters, this is great ! You will have to be a student in order to apply for a Screenwriting Internship and since you are in Riverside, I presume you are interacting with the Hollywood market.
Here are some I found for you: TV Academy Foundation Internships, Park Artist Groups (this one is remote), Atlanta Film Society Internship, and NBC Universal Internship Program. Do a search for them online and read how to apply.
Also look into contests, too. There is the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards Screenplay Contest, Los Angeles Screenwriting Competition, if you are enrolled in a Film School or a Film Department at a University check with your department to see what internships and competitions they offer at the campus, The Festival of Media Arts Student Script Writing Competition, Script Pipeline, ScreenCraft, Page International Screenwriting Awards, Finish Line Script Competition and I am sure that your professors can tell you of more or you can find more online. Each place has their own process for applying so you'll have to read their websites to know "how" to apply.
Yes, making a strong connection with your professors can be of great value and also support. One thing that I can also suggest is to self produce a short film so that you can build up your resume and reel now. It can be a short film, documentary short, but this will be a great boost to have at least one or two of your scripts in live action form. Classmates that are into directing and acting can help your stories take shape.
I hope this helps and I wish you all this best !
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Grace,
Focus on expanding your network effectively. Here are some actionable steps:
WORK ON THE NETWORKING:- Network methods include: - ‣ Swap business cards ‣ Give out your business pamphlets at expositions ‣ Go to industry meetings ‣ Swap phone numbers ‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Join a network group ‣ Utilize social media ‣ Let people pick your brain at seminars answer questions ‣ Grow a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Join industry groups ‣ Attend conventions and conferences ‣ Send cold emails ‣ Set up informational interviews ‣ Offer assistance ‣ Attend group network events to introduce yourself ‣ Attend industry-related conferences ‣ Join online communities ‣ Participate in online forums ‣ Meet new contacts for coffee ‣ Reach out to potential contacts via email or social network sites ‣ Ask friends to introduce you to their contacts as a reliable person ‣ Stay in touch with former coworkers ‣ Go to shows with people ‣ Get invited to people's houses to have meals with them and watch movies and shows ‣ Hold public discussion groups ‣ Meet with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Have an amateur astronomer's star party ‣ Get to know and talk to your local medical doctors
‣ Meet with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meet with local health action groups ‣ Join public speak groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meet people at a fancy restaurant, sit down, talk, have meals together ‣ Pay your waiter a tab and converse ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career happening ‣ Get to know therapists ‣ Meet people at a barbeque. GIVE PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS.
VOLUNTEER.
What are you interested in? Do a Google search for local colleges [within 100km]. Get their email address. Email the Head of a university department that specializes in a subject of your interest. Tell the person about your interest and mention that it is similar to yours. Mention that you regularly use search engines to find research pertaining to the said topic. Divulge that you are seeking a research internship. Could this person keep you in mind? By the way mention that you shall email with an updated resume.
SEE https://www.udemy.com/course/screenwriting-workshop/? ALSO https://blog.celtx.com/best-schools-for-screenwriting/
ALSO https://www.collegeflightpath.com/cfp-blog/best-colleges-for-screenwriting-majors
USA Best Film School for Screenwriting:-
The University of Southern California (USC) is often regarded as the best film school for screenwriting in the USA. It offers a highly competitive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Writing for Screen and Television, with an acceptance rate of only around 3%. USC's program is renowned for its faculty expertise, industry connections, and the success of its alumni, including many influential screenwriters in Hollywood.
Other notable programs include:-
UCLA: Known for its focus on storytelling and script development, UCLA's screenwriting program provides a competitive environment with numerous networking opportunities.
NYU Tisch: Offers a creative and collaborative screenwriting program, benefiting from exposure to the New York film and television scene.
Columbia: Known for its MFA in Screenwriting program, which attracts talented and diverse writers.
AFI Conservatory: Provides a highly selective, hands-on program for screenwriters, focusing on practical experience and industry connections.
Northwestern MFA: Offers a program that fosters collaboration among writers, directors, and actors.
These schools offer a range of programs, from undergraduate to graduate levels, and provide students with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the competitive field of screenwriting.
____________________________________________________________________
GOD BLESS!
Best of luck!
Focus on expanding your network effectively. Here are some actionable steps:
WORK ON THE NETWORKING:- Network methods include: - ‣ Swap business cards ‣ Give out your business pamphlets at expositions ‣ Go to industry meetings ‣ Swap phone numbers ‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Join a network group ‣ Utilize social media ‣ Let people pick your brain at seminars answer questions ‣ Grow a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Join industry groups ‣ Attend conventions and conferences ‣ Send cold emails ‣ Set up informational interviews ‣ Offer assistance ‣ Attend group network events to introduce yourself ‣ Attend industry-related conferences ‣ Join online communities ‣ Participate in online forums ‣ Meet new contacts for coffee ‣ Reach out to potential contacts via email or social network sites ‣ Ask friends to introduce you to their contacts as a reliable person ‣ Stay in touch with former coworkers ‣ Go to shows with people ‣ Get invited to people's houses to have meals with them and watch movies and shows ‣ Hold public discussion groups ‣ Meet with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Have an amateur astronomer's star party ‣ Get to know and talk to your local medical doctors
‣ Meet with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meet with local health action groups ‣ Join public speak groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meet people at a fancy restaurant, sit down, talk, have meals together ‣ Pay your waiter a tab and converse ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career happening ‣ Get to know therapists ‣ Meet people at a barbeque. GIVE PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS.
VOLUNTEER.
What are you interested in? Do a Google search for local colleges [within 100km]. Get their email address. Email the Head of a university department that specializes in a subject of your interest. Tell the person about your interest and mention that it is similar to yours. Mention that you regularly use search engines to find research pertaining to the said topic. Divulge that you are seeking a research internship. Could this person keep you in mind? By the way mention that you shall email with an updated resume.
SEE https://www.udemy.com/course/screenwriting-workshop/? ALSO https://blog.celtx.com/best-schools-for-screenwriting/
ALSO https://www.collegeflightpath.com/cfp-blog/best-colleges-for-screenwriting-majors
USA Best Film School for Screenwriting:-
The University of Southern California (USC) is often regarded as the best film school for screenwriting in the USA. It offers a highly competitive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Writing for Screen and Television, with an acceptance rate of only around 3%. USC's program is renowned for its faculty expertise, industry connections, and the success of its alumni, including many influential screenwriters in Hollywood.
Other notable programs include:-
UCLA: Known for its focus on storytelling and script development, UCLA's screenwriting program provides a competitive environment with numerous networking opportunities.
NYU Tisch: Offers a creative and collaborative screenwriting program, benefiting from exposure to the New York film and television scene.
Columbia: Known for its MFA in Screenwriting program, which attracts talented and diverse writers.
AFI Conservatory: Provides a highly selective, hands-on program for screenwriters, focusing on practical experience and industry connections.
Northwestern MFA: Offers a program that fosters collaboration among writers, directors, and actors.
These schools offer a range of programs, from undergraduate to graduate levels, and provide students with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the competitive field of screenwriting.
____________________________________________________________________
GOD BLESS!
Best of luck!
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Grace,
It is great to hear that you are looking for opportunities for an internship within screenwriting. Starting off with anything can be difficult, but it is important to stay persistent. There are a few things you can do to go about getting an internship as a college student.
Your professors are a good place to start. Make sure they see your ambition throughout class and see if they have any leads on possible internships. If they are not sure, ask if there are any writers or firms he can out you in contact with.
Extensive online research is necessary when using job searching websites. Be sure to apply to any that even slightly catch your attention. Even if it is not exactly what you are looking for, still apply and who knows you might end up liking it or can add to what your're passionate about. Have a clean and concise resume, cover letter, and possibly even a portfolio of your school work. Send emails to companies you like or that are near you and connect with people who work there.
Best of luck on your journey!
It is great to hear that you are looking for opportunities for an internship within screenwriting. Starting off with anything can be difficult, but it is important to stay persistent. There are a few things you can do to go about getting an internship as a college student.
Your professors are a good place to start. Make sure they see your ambition throughout class and see if they have any leads on possible internships. If they are not sure, ask if there are any writers or firms he can out you in contact with.
Extensive online research is necessary when using job searching websites. Be sure to apply to any that even slightly catch your attention. Even if it is not exactly what you are looking for, still apply and who knows you might end up liking it or can add to what your're passionate about. Have a clean and concise resume, cover letter, and possibly even a portfolio of your school work. Send emails to companies you like or that are near you and connect with people who work there.
Best of luck on your journey!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Grace
Elizabeth Mejia
Accountant
2
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Hi Grace, here are some tips from my experience at the Austin Film Society and building my own career:
1. Networking is key. Don't just focus on professors. Connect with peers, industry contacts, coworkers, and community volunteers. People change jobs and locations, so these relationships can be valuable.
2. To land an internship, focus on two things:
a) Experience and talent. Create a strong portfolio with your work, like writings or projects from school or camps. This shows professionalism and helps you stand out.
b) Network and soft skills. Since experience might be limited, your communication, confidence, and ability to connect with the interview team are crucial. Work on these skills and recognize your strengths.
3. Look beyond California. The Austin Film Society had an internship program with various rotations, offering great networking opportunities. If you can't find a screenwriting internship, explore other roles that can help you get started in the industry.
Good luck!
1. Networking is key. Don't just focus on professors. Connect with peers, industry contacts, coworkers, and community volunteers. People change jobs and locations, so these relationships can be valuable.
2. To land an internship, focus on two things:
a) Experience and talent. Create a strong portfolio with your work, like writings or projects from school or camps. This shows professionalism and helps you stand out.
b) Network and soft skills. Since experience might be limited, your communication, confidence, and ability to connect with the interview team are crucial. Work on these skills and recognize your strengths.
3. Look beyond California. The Austin Film Society had an internship program with various rotations, offering great networking opportunities. If you can't find a screenwriting internship, explore other roles that can help you get started in the industry.
Good luck!