Sunny So. Cal
Good morning, world. (Of course, I realize that just because it is morning where I am doesn't mean it is morning all over the world... I don't think like New Yorkers do.)
As I type this I am sitting in sunny southern California where I am spending the weekend in order to participate in one of the final stages of the application process to the DGA Training Program. For those of you not familiar with this program, it is one of the film industry's most prestigious placement programs administered by the Directors Guild of America. Participants in the program are placed in production jobs for 2-3 years until they have accumulated enough work days to be admitted into the DGA, one of the most powerful unions in Hollywood. Getting into the DGA without the program is particularly difficult, so the fact that participants who successfully complete the program are automatically invited to join the guild is one of the reasons that this program is so extremely competitive.
Already I have completed three of the five major steps:
1) Application Part A - basically, a form saying, "I want to apply, here's my application fee."
2) DGA Test - a long, standardized test administered to all applicants, this test includes math, vocabulary, spatial reasoning, planning, prioritizing, and a psychological profile.
3) Application Part B - a series of five application essays, a resume, and employment history.
The two remaining steps are:
4) Assessment Center - a series of group and individual exercises, which is what is happening today, affectionately called "the fish bowl" by some.
5) Individual Interview - a panel will interview individual candidates about their life and their interest in the program. Those who perform well enough at Assessment Center are invited to interview. If I am selected for an interview, that will take place this coming Monday or Tuesday.
So, anyhow, wish me luck, and I will be sure to keep you posted on my status. Here's hoping I'm in LA until Tuesday!