Read about some of our apprentices - in their own words or from their mentors. Their success is our success and we are proud to play a part in it.

Well, this is the last month for Mike MacDonald. What an interesting journey this has been for both of us!

This month he has been boom operator for Cinestar Productions’ and Spacejuncian Films’ movie, Broken. He was also invited to co-produce Katie Avallone’s movie, Safe Haven, which will probably not shoot until fall. He is heavily involved in the rewrites for this project and the shoot dates will not settle in until the script is in the best possible shape.

In early May, Mike will be B Camera Operator for Michael Ramsey of Shui Productions for an African musical performance. In early June, Mike will be gaffer and key grip for Jon Henderson’s Big C project.

What a long way Mike has come since we first met! He has an excellent grasp of the business and is definitely hirable. He also is a lot more mature than he was last year.

I think he has decided that this business is where his true love is.  As he is leaving his current job…I am encouraging him not just take anything, but to find a job—any job—in the business.  I know he has a possibility of getting on with ManiaTV, so I am hoping he will pursue that. And, Kabby’s Tree could potentially start up full production this year as well. If so, he will most likely be brought on board.

Last Friday night we had a long conversation about the Apprentice-Mentor Association and Getamentor.com. He had the most wonderful things to say about it and he feels that this experience has changed his life. It is win-win-win for all concerned.

Thank you!

I have nothing but good things to say about Carol, or "Z" Zarbock, and the film, "Again and Again, Ch. 2-4". I have assisted in virtually every aspect of the filming process, which has been one of the best experiences of my life. I was upgraded to second AD by the second week of filming. I filled in for an absent actor, found a Renaissance dance expert, helped with the music video for the film, and so much more. Two weeks ago we went to Iowa to film, which was so much fun. We had a lot of fun behind and in front of the camera - more specifically I am speaking of an outtake that had us all on the ground laughing. Laughing so hard Z had an asthma attack, and the lead actor and I had tears streaming out of our eyes.

Everybody survived, but we had a pretty good laugh.  It pretty much has been a non-stop thrill ride the last month. I am very glad, you set me up with Z, because not only has she been a great mentor, but the people on her crew are all extremely talented in what they do. I have already made some friends/contacts, which I think will turn into something great.

All in all, this has been such a great experience. I now look forward to post-production and Z's help in getting my foot in the door with my own film, which hopefully at this time next year will be in production.

This has been the best year of my life. THANKS!!!

Michael McDonald

We are thrilled that you chose Partisan Pictures and that you sent Jean our way.I am writing to let you know that she has been with us as an intern for almost three months now and to let you know how happy we are with her professional approach and her enthusiasm. I am the production manager for a 13-hour series on the American Revolution for The History Channel and Jean's presence here has been a great addition to the team. The producer/writer with whom she has most closely worked has praised her research skills and her ability to condense a large amount of information into script-friendly bites, and I have relied on her skills in maintaining a professional office environment.

As we move from the research and development stage into the physical realm, it is our expectation that we can make Jean a salaried member of "Team Revolution" and that she can accompany us into the field to gain additional experience and exposure to the process of production and post-production.  

Best regards,

Glenn Reimer
Production Manager
Partisan Pictures

The two most exciting days this month happened one right after the other.  I met the Director of Photography here at Atlantic Video and he shared with me his experiences in this field.  He was also making last minute preparations in the studio for a shoot that was scheduled the following day.  I assisted him with light placement, preparing some of the light filters and collecting needed equipment.  He took me onto the set of one of the ESPN programs I watch often and showed me some of the basics of camera operation.  I then sat in on the taping of the program and had a blast.  It only got better because the following day I was on the set of an all day fitness video taping.  I assisted wherever and whenever I got a chance.  Lighting placement, creating props, camera placement… it was an eye opening experience and I realized that I made the right decision.  The taping went well and lasted all day.  I want to really concentrate on this area of the business and can't wait to get in more time with the DP and learn from him.  It's already month two and the time seems to be flying by.  I hope it continues to be everything I have hoped for and hope I can make a transition from my job upon completion. 

Interning at this station has helped me learn how to run a morning show, how to produce, gather topics, keep time and screen callers, and prepare interviews for guests…and also commercial production, voice work.
I've met so many artists since starting the program.  I met 50 Cent, Rihanna, Omarion, The Backstreet Boys, Cassidy, Jermaine Dupri, Christina Milian, Ricky Martin, Sean Paul, LL Cool J, and Nelly Furtado, to name a few.   This mentor program has gotten the wheel turning on my career… nothing happens over night, I've been taking my time with the program, but the contacts I've made have put me directly in the right place to shine. I've gotten television commercials, background film work and principal work in independent films from contacts I've made.  Remember, I'm in the radio course and made contacts like these!!! My brother is now a recording artist who has a single that is being played  and a mixtape that's being endorsed by a local Philadelphia hip-hop station from direct contacts I've made.  He is now having meetings with the president of Sony Records and Atlantic Records and is even closer to signing a deal.

The journey is just beginning for me.  I'm living proof that this program will give you the tools and the know how to succeed in this business.  If you have talent, the contacts and the hands-on training provided are going to propel you to the next level.  I'm so happy I decided on this program. I'll sing the praises of this program any chance I get.

Thanks again!!!

Sincerely,
Sergio Santana

Tomorrow I'm going into the studio early at 9 a.m.  We're recording a demo for a country band and I will get to operate the software for recording. Next Wednesday I'm also getting my first job.  I'm going get to go to a live concert outdoors and record a band that’s going to be there.  My job will be just to hold a microphone and to make sure that I’'m picking up right frequencies and they will pay me $75 for just 2 hrs.  Not bad, huh? Now I'm just so excited and anxious to start working for the studio full-time.  I believe they promised me a job by winter time.  Again thank you very much, guys, for everything and thank you for making the impossible possible. 

I am currently trying my hand at editing a short film!  I also learned more about inter-format transfer (DV, film, Beta and such) and the processes involved.  I continue to be involved on Saturdays, and absorb all I can in the many projects Shattering Paradigms is involved in.  I continue to be taught on the interdependencies of different media formats, and the possible future convergence. 

In the time I've spent working with Jay, I have been able to do things I never imagined I'd be doing.  When I first started, I figured I would just be watching how things worked and running errands.  That has not been the case.  I have been involved in everything and have learned so much.  Jay is an excellent teacher and is always willing to answer questions I have.  Just recently, I wrote a script for a short film and we are now in the process of getting everything together so that we can film it sometime over the summer.  I feel this experience has been so much better then anything I could have gotten at any film school and I look forward to continuing.

Sincerely,

Nick Young

We made David the offer and he accepted! He has been with us for over a month and has impressed us so much that on Monday we’re giving him a promotion, a raise and he’ll be supervising a 3 member staff.

Thank you for considering us to participate in the program and please think of us in the future if you have any other candidates.

                       
One thing struck me in the conversation with my mentor.  He said he gets several requests a month from kids who want to come in as interns.  In five years, he said he has only had two who have showed the initiative and commitment to keep coming back and keep learning, to show up on time and be responsible.  This mentorship program has proceeded at a slow pace, but probably the right pace, for my circumstances, and his.  But the bottom line remains - talent means nothing without responsibility and dependability, in this industry or any other. 

I just wanted to inform you that I have completed my mentorship with Artmar Productions. This mentorship has provided me with two paying jobs which include a credit as second assistant director on the soon-to-be-released anthology, "Windows" as well as production assistant work in the upcoming release, "The Child Within". Through contacts which I have made as a result of my work on these two productions, I should be getting further job opportunities in upcoming independent films.  In addition, I've also received an extended education through screen writing classes and seminars taught by Marilyn Horowitz with whom I plan to continue a professional relationship as my screenplay approaches completion. This has been a great experience that I would recommend to anyone.

Sincerely,

My mentor  is currently producing a show for T L C on home renovations (reality) called "Property Ladder". It was an 8 hour day which is short in comparison to commercials and features but a lot of filming was accomplished. We showed the house to potential contractors and interviewed them as well. 

At one point during the shoot, Heath asked me how I liked my first experience on a set... I told him that next to falling in love and screenwriting, it was probably the most amazing experience I had ever had. He smiled. I didn't stop smiling for the next three days.

My sound engineering career is already taking off with gigs both live and in the studio.  Thanks for everything. Keeping a full time job and trying to learn a new trade at the same time is no easy task, but luckily learning the new trade felt more like fun than it did work.  Chad was an outstanding mentor, and I don't think I could have landed in better hands.  After finishing the program, I already have a band scheduled to come in and record with me.  Chad has been kind enough to let me use the studio, and it looks like I'll be a part of The Devil’s Workshop studio for some time to come...

I've always believed the mentor apprentice relationship is the best way to learn a trade and get into a field.  This experience proved to me that it certainly is.  I already have connections and a studio to work in.  I didn't dream things would happen this fast...  I'm very happy with the program, and would recommend it to anyone looking to get into the music business.  The biggest key to making it work is matching the right apprentice with the right mentor, and I feel you have a very solid system in place to do that.  I was matched perfectly and I don't really think I could have possibly failed after that.  This program set me up for success and I am forever grateful for that.  Thank you so so much, and hopefully someday I'll be able to give back what I was given.
Sincerely,

Directly due to my recommendation, Vince now has a job working part-time as a board operator for our Sports Xtra 1330 WTRX-AM.  He also landed himself a part time radio job in the Port Huron area, near his hometown, as well!

The program worked with flying colors.  I'm so glad there is something like this out there to bridge the gap between those in the business and those who would like to be a part of it.  The Apprentice-Mentor Association and GetAMentor.com simply work!  After all, what's better than hands-on experience and training directly in the field, right in the middle of all the action!? 

As a mentor, I felt my knowledge and experience were valued, and I enjoyed so much helping someone get started with something I'm already so passionate about and involved in! 

Jake Niemi
Production Director
Citadel Communications Corp
WFBE-FM / WTRX-AM

I finished the GetAMentor program nearly three months ago and as far as I can see, this program will be a huge part of my future.  Mike Sherlock of 1049 Clear FM was an amazing mentor.  I would recommend him to anyone wishing to join your program.  I am confident that with the skills I have developed and the demo put together by Mike and myself I will find my dream job in radio/television.  I have spent most of my time since completing the program networking and volunteering at various television stations.  I have also seen many public speaking gigs come my way.  I do appreciate this opportunity you have given me and I would be glad to answer any other questions you have or just to remain in contact.

Sincerely,

I love every day I go into the studio and feel lucky to have people around me who can answer my questions with their experience in the field and seem more than happy to share those answers.

Jason Thul
Percussion Instructor.
Audio Engineering Apprentice
Turtle Studios

What I have enjoyed the most is the opportunities to learn hands on. I feel this is the only way I really learn anything. I have enjoyed working with all the different bands that have come through the door and have actually heard, on the radio, a song that I watched Tom mix three months earlier.

Thank you,
Royce Stockman

Everyone at 4th Row is great, and for a first time experience in the industry, I couldn't have asked for better.So far, I have worked on a DVD release for Lions Gate, as well as projects involving Gwen Stefani, Fat Joe, DJ Green Lantern, and pediatrician/author Michel Cohen.  I've gotten a lot of hands-on training as an editor, and have gained some very important knowledge about the politics of "selling" your script or idea. Susan, Robert, and Doug have all been very generous in seeing that I get the very best learning experience possible out of my time with their company. There have been days where I've had the editing room all to myself, with multiple projects going at once.  The pressure is tremendous, but it's an invaluable learning experience. I've already made inquiries to other production companies to work once my apprenticeship with 4th Row is finished, and they've all responded positively to the amount of experience I've gained over the past 7 months. I understand that I still have a long way to go, but it's apparent my apprenticeship with 4th Row Films has gotten me on an excellent start.

Judging only from our short meeting, Kathy struck me as an intelligent, creative, determined woman and a good communicator. However, it's her affable demeanor that really sets her apart from most other assistants and interns. I predict that she will have no problem learning to work with our eccentric, demanding, and oftentimes difficult clientele.

I'm looking forward to "mentoring" Kathy and helping her find her place in the music industry.

Michael first met to discuss his career goals and agree upon specific areas that our mentor-partnership could help in achieving those goals. Because he was just hired for a new job, we decided to work on weekends, and had met on four consecutive Saturdays through July 9th.  Up to this point, we have focused primarily on post production workflow and editing techniques.

His formidable computer knowledge and experience makes him an ideal candidate for an editor’s position in this business.  He worked at home studying the manuals for my Avid Editing System and has even purchased a Avid DV system to familiarize himself with this software.  Together, we learned a multi-camera feature of the Avid and he cut a portion of a project that I was working on.

After a few weeks off (Michael was directing a play) we’ve gotten back together and discussed our next steps.  Today, we reviewed the finished video that he helped me with and discussed his participation on a low budget movie that I will be shooting in September.  His current homework is to study a book on Script supervising and continuity in preparation for that shoot. 

Michael is smart, conscientious and committed to learning this craft.  I enjoy working with him and look forward to our ongoing relationship.

Thank you,

Steve Seal

Denver Film & Digital

Things are going well with my mentor Carmen Grillo. 

Last week Carmen offered me the chance to come to the studio to sit in on a session.  I had done this before a couple of times with him…  After helping to set up the studio mics for the recording, and getting the console set up, patch bay hooked up, levels set etc., Carmen asked if I'd like to "sit in the driver's seat" and do some actual recording of the band!  He had been showing me step by step what he was doing and I guess he knew I was ready for some real soloing.  I said yes of course, and it was really great.  

Once we got through one or two takes of a song and he could see I was all right, he just took a seat behind me.  At one point he even said, "Well, I guess it won't be too long before I can go play golf and let you handle things." You could've knocked me over with a feather.  Needless to say, I was glowing the rest of the session.  I came back the next day (by his invitation) and did more of the same.  What a great jump in my confidence and my learning!  

Thanks again for making this all possible!

With no prior experience in editing feature film trailers, Joemari is now learning hands on how to edit a trailer for us. We actually having him edit a trailer from a completed feature film, and we are going to use that trailer for our marketing campaign for the film.

Tony Kandah
President, Hollywood Wizard

I was able to work behind the scenes of the Video Music Awards which was sooo much fun!  I helped out in the wardrobe department and got to see a side of film that I would have never imagined myself being a part of.  But it was so interesting and I met a lot of interesting people.
I also got to work on the set of an MTV production called TRANSIT.  I helped out the production crew and got a lot of insight on what production assistants do, as well as directors, writers, etc.  It was very eye opening and I learned so much!  Rosser even let me read the script before going on set and I felt very privileged.
My next project was getting to help on the set of a video shoot.  This was so much fun and since it was a small shoot, I really felt like part of the crew.  The band, director and everyone involved were awesome.   They were very nice and seemed grateful to have extra help.

All these experiences have been mixed in with insightful and highly entertaining visits with Rosser.  She is a great match for me and inspires me each time I meet with her.  We are currently working on my resume and ideas for short films. 

Thank you very much. Joe is such a pleasure to work with.  He is now able to work independently in my studios

Alan K. 
ProPoint Studio

If I were asked about the GetAMentor program, I would highly recommend it.  The actual work experience, and seeing the business in action is far more beneficial than what I would have learned in a classroom.  It has even allowed me to get a part-time job running a sound board for a local band.  Although, there is a way to go, I definitely feel I've gotten a good start towards a more enjoyable career.

Scott Files
Lawrenceville, GA

My training went really well. I completed the whole course in about three months.  I go into the studio on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. I make beats, do recording sessions, and mix songs. It’s really cool. It’s probably my favorite part of the week now. I haven’t started getting paid yet but that's all right for now because of how much I am enjoying it. I have a feeling I'll start getting paid pretty soon anyway.  Like I said I've been making beats and each time I sell one it’s $500.

Overall I would give the whole process a 10.  It was challenging, but I have enjoyed every step that has led me to this point. GetAMentor did an excellent job matching me with the right mentor and studio situation for me. 
Thank you very much for all your help. It was worth it.

I'd like to inform you of my successes as of late.  As you know my apprenticeship with Francois has been a great experience. Not only have I managed to learn a thing or two about a thing or two I also got a job out of it. Actually I see it more as a business opportunity since the atmosphere lends itself to be more a collaboration of minds than a relationship of boss and employee.

It's been a long year with many challenges and adjustments however it has been worth every sacrifice.
I feel that even my perception of taking on new challenges has changed. I no longer fear risk but crave its ever looming shadow of dark and mysterious wonder that hides behind its wake. In short it has been an eye opener to say the least and great for ones confidence!

I would like to thank you and your staff for having the foresight to see this apprenticeship program through and making it the success that I believe it is. You give people access to their goals unlike any scholastic experience I have had.

In the mail is a copy of my letter of employment and contract with Fringedocs.

Thanks again,
Angela DaRocha
Video Editor and Producer

For more success stories in our Film program, visit FilmMentor.com, for our Recording program visit RecordingMentor.com and for our Radio program visit Radio-Mentor.com.


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