For twelve Curry College television and film students, winter's intersession didn't mean hanging out at home or on a beach. They were accepted into the 3-credit intensive course, "Hollywood Productions: UP CLOSE", a special class that brings students to Los Angeles to meet with producers, directors, writers and actors from the TV and film industries.
The course, team taught by Professors Bob MacNeil and Jerry Gibbs, provided advanced production students with a chance to network with industry professionals, and see what types of jobs are available after they graduate.
"Seeing productions in person and meeting with the pros can really help students decide what they want to do," said Jerry Gibbs, associate professor and director of Curry's television program. "When they hear from a movie producer about signing up Steve Carrell for a role, they start to realize that this really is a job that someone does."
Many facets of the trip were put together through alumni connections. A trip to the set of "Desperate Housewives" was arranged by Curry alum George Perkins. Seeing tapings of "According to Jim" and "America's Funniest Videos" were courtesy of alum John Wolk. And visits to production facilities were also provided by alums Mark Collins and Mark Biase.
"These alums are so crucial to the success of this course," said Prof. Bob MacNeil. "They are showing, first hand, how hard work and a Curry education can bring you to the top of the mountain."
Students also went behind-the-scenes to watch how "The Price is Right" is produced, visited the set of "Scrubs" and talked with executive producer Bill Callahan, met with "Ugly Betty" star America Ferrara, learned the latest news about "American Idol" with producer Patrick Lynn, and met with development officials at Endemol USA--creators of shows like "Deal or No Deal" and "Big Brother".
They also visited with movie producer Jonathan Glickman, president of Spyglass Entertainment. Mr. Glickman's production company produced several summer blockbusters including "Evan Almighty".
Students said the trip was grueling, but one of the most exciting weeks of their lives.
"I had such an amazing time and met a lot of knowledgeable people in the industry," junior Denise Batson said.
Senior Tim Bausch added, "This trip made me come up with a plan for my future and I learned a lot in the process."
Senior Andrew Graziano said, "This trip opened my eyes and many doors. I realize that I have the upper hand over any other college graduate because of the connections I made."
Several students are now gearing up to go back to LA for either full-time internships or to move out there after graduation.
"I believe this course is laying the groundwork for a much larger Curry presence in LA," said Professor Gibbs. "We are really just at the starting point for what we will be accomplishing out on the west coast."