Why did you want to study at Stark?

Stark connects their students with the entertainment industry like no other program. Its faculty members are all actively working in the business, having amazing insight into not just what the present of the industry looks like, but the future as well. Additionally, because we’re a small cohort, our academic advisors have the ability to connect with us one-on-one and map out strategies for our individual goals, while sending relevant opportunities our way. But the most impressive aspect of Stark is its community. The program fosters an incredible culture of support, and alums who are now working in the business are always open to connecting with current students looking for guidance. I’ve benefited tremendously from that network, and have landed professional opportunities relying on it, which only makes me more excited to continue to pay it forward for the next generation of Starkies.

What have been your greatest successes and challenges at school so far?

Stark’s biggest challenge is time management. The program will offer you tons of incredible opportunities, including internships, producing shorts, and networking events, among many others. Back when I started, I wanted to say yes to absolutely everything, but what I quickly realized is that there’s simply not enough hours in the day! It’s important to be very strategic with what responsibilities and opportunities you decide to pursue, always considering how each one of them can contribute to your overarching professional goal. 

As for successes, I’m extremely happy that my professional development at the Stark Program helped land an internship at The Walt Disney Company, working in TV development and current programming for ABC and Hulu. Having lived my entire life in South America before joining the program, the possibility of ever working in a major studio seemed extremely distant, but the industry knowledge and professional opportunities that I’ve acquired through Stark during my first year allowed me to stand out among other candidates during my interview. To this day, it has been one of the most fulfilling jobs I’ve ever had!

What projects have you worked on that you’re proud of?

After completing your first year in the Program, students can apply to produce a larger-scale project known as the Stark Special. If selected, students will receive guidance and resources to aid in the production process. Our goal was to make good use of USC’s phenomenal structure, so we decided to push ourselves and make a high-fantasy short shot on the virtual production stage, a technology that was new for most of our crew. It’s been thrilling to tackle such an ambitious project alongside my team, and I can safely say that working with them has been one of the high points of my journey at Stark.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying to SCA?

Remember: we’re storytellers, so use your application as an opportunity to craft a compelling story about who you are and what makes you unique! While applying, ask yourself what were the formative experiences that shaped you into who you are today, and try to convey them in a creative, entertaining way. Let your personality shine through, and be true to yourself. For the interview, take time to develop a strategy of what you want to get out of this program. How will this experience impact your career? It’s normal for your goals to change over the course of the program, but conveying that you know what you’d like to achieve during your time in Stark can help tremendously.