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Breaking into the "biz"...

One surefire way to make connections and explore areas of interest within the entertainment industry is by interning. I personally found my interning experiences eye-opening, exhilarating, educational and occasionally even a little embarrassing, (like the time I was dragged through a film set while simultaneously scooping up droppings of an overexcited orangutan named Suzie). Simply put, it was FUN! I didn't get paid much, but I walked away with a wealth of anecdotes.

I moved to New York at 19 to attend NYU and pursue a career in acting. Having heard many times that success is often achieved by "who you know" (and I didn't know ANYone), I set out determined to meet and work with folks who could guide me down the alluring path ahead. I researched trade magazines and cold-called my way into a number of internships. I served snacks on set as a craft service girl, sorted and filed headshots for a children's talent agent, wrote script coverage for an A-list talent manager, updated an extensive rolodex for a film production office, and played the part of quintessential gopher as a production assistant.

This varied exposure influenced my direction and helped me carve out a flexible role for myself within the entertainment industry. After paying my dues' as an intern, I've made a career for myself which includes collecting an actual paycheck and not only anecdotes. And better still, no more scooping after Suzie!

Learn more about this author, Heather Zicko.
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