Screenwriter
Is screenwriting for you?
Do you have ideas for films that just have to be written down all the time? Do you envision how an interaction between a couple on the street would be translated on the silver screen? You might have what it takes to be a screenwriter. Screenwriters produce original scripts and adaptations of literary works for directors to turn into the entertainment we see in movie theaters or on the television every day. Good screenplays are part vision, part guideline, and are in high demand by film producers.
Get a Screenwriting Degree
The best screenwriter careers start with good schooling. There are numerous respected screenwriting schools, such as the University of Southern California or New York University, but many screenwriters begin their careers majoring in English or literature. The most important part of any screenplay is a naturally-flowing script, and a command of the nuances and subtleties of the English language are important towards those ends.
Network With Other Screenwriters
Many screenwriter jobs are found through connections made by associating with other screenwriters. Joining the screenwriters union is an excellent way to meet other screenwriters, find out about screenwriter jobs and generally further your screenwriter career.
Also, think about the people you met in college or at your screenwriting school; those people are also looking around for jobs. Some may have landed good screenwriting jobs and can give you information on who to talk to or apply with.
By associating with other screenwriters, you can possibly be offered (or even ask) to co-write a script or screenplay. This will not only allow you to get your foot in the door, but it will also be a boost to your resume which may also be a boost to your career.
Practice your craft by writing original screenplays and scripts. The cliché is that everyone in Hollywood seems to be working on a screenplay, but the truth is that some of the most recognized movie stars today, like Matt Damon and Ben Affleck or Sylvester Stallone, began as screenwriters with their own script or screenplay to produce. In fact, the experiences that Damon and Affleck went through prompted them to found Project Greenlight to assist new and up-and-coming screenwriters (and other movie professionals) get a break in the film industry. No matter what you do, always remember to keep trying and take any opportunity that presents itself, no matter how small.
