DO YOU WANT TO BE A VIDEO EDITOR SOMEDAY?
At F.I.R.S.T. Institute, our goal is to empower you with the tools and knowledge you’ll need to begin your career in the film and video industry. Career planning for students can be a tough path for many. This goes beyond simply handing you a packet of information after graduation and wishing you good luck in the future – which, while useful, isn’t going to help much once you’re faced with real-world choices that can have an impact on your career.
We’ve put together a few questions which should help you make the transition from student to successful film and video editor much more smoothly!
1) Are you willing to consider an (unpaid) internship?
You’ll find that a lot of employers are going to want to see some experience before they hire you, even if you’re applying for an entry-level position. How the heck are you supposed to get the experience that you need to get experience?
One way is to look for an internship. While there are some internships available that pay, the vast majority of the ones you’re going to find will be unpaid. This option isn’t for everyone, but internships are a great way to get the experience you need while getting your foot in the door with a potential employer. The film and video industry is extremely competitive and many people out there are willing to work for next to nothing. Anything that you can do to make yourself look good and get the experience you need to be taken seriously is worth consideration!
2) Would you move to take a job?
The fact of the matter is that, while jobs are available all around the US (and the world), there are and always will be major hubs where most of the magic happens. Currently, those are NYC and LA. While you may not have to move in order to get your first job, you should keep the idea in mind and think about whether or not you would be willing to move for the right opportunity.
3) What are your long-term career goals?
Take a few minutes and think of how you would answer the following questions:
- What sorts of projects are you interested in?
- What are you willing to sacrifice (at least at first) to get your foot in the door in the industry?
- Do you have any plans for building your first reel?
STILL HUNGRY FOR A CAREER IN FILM?
Then you’re probably cut out for the film industry! The best move for students who’re looking forward to their careers in the film and video industry is to plan and prepare as much as possible. Life happens, and you want to be ready for it! That’s where attending a great film school comes into play. By planning and preparing yourself for situations that are likely to happen, you’re setting yourself up for success.
If there is anything we can do to help you on your way to a successful career in film and video, please let us know. You can reach out to us through our website any time, or give us a call during our normal business hours.
