The summer before my sophomore, I was was awarded CFILM (Center for Film Studies) Summer Externship Grant on the programs pilot year. It is a 5 day experience for two underrepresented film students to meet 10 alumni in the LA industry. It was invaluable to connect my budding interest in film and writing to actionable paths in the film industry.

I was able to start building relationships and connections early and in a non-stressful environment. The alumni were welcoming and generous with their time and genuine about their experiences in the industry. I felt like I could freely ask questions about their industry focus, experience coming from Wesleyan, and the industry’s changing landscape.

The alumni were diverse in their advice, careers, and the path they took to entering the industry. I especially felt encouraged by the Wesleyan Alumni who similarly had no connections to the industry and were low income, but successfully built a career. Coming from a smaller town in Georgia, being able to experience LA in person for the week and talk to locals was irreplaceable.

The CFlLM Summer Externship Grant was a launchpad into the film industry and in starting a film career in a wise, prepared, and passionate way.