The DGA Trainee Program for me is a golden opportunity that provides you a comprehensive ground to gain experience and knowledge in the fast evolving industry . Entering the world of Production is definitely overwhelming, the program with its orientation week and various seminars along the way navigates you through the two years of Training. The beauty of storytelling through television, films and even commercials is that no two jobs are similar. For me personally, I have worked in this industry for almost ten years from India to Europe and yet, being in the program has helped me understand different aspects of building a project, what it entails and how best to go about it. It is unfortunate that not always will you have a guiding hand on learning in a field that is all about practical/ on set experience. The training program covers the basics as well as dives deep. Recently, read a quote- “ Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor” , I interpret it as when you are in the program and you lead the day with integrity and hard work, the world is your playground.
“Trainees work hard, we have long hours, but we have fun! Once set finds out that you are a trainee it’s this level of responsibility that actually feeds your hunger for growth on a daily basis. You begin to receive tasks that are often totally out of your wheel house. To know that the assistant directors trust you with getting it done is the fun part. ADs and even producers on most of my shows have poured into me and have invested time, knowledge, and opportunities that were far beyond requirements. I’ve worked on awesome shows in the city and along the way have gained family bonds with the crew members, actors, and even background extras. Applying to the program and being accepted has been such a great opportunity and has truly advanced my career.” – Larry (class of ’18)
"We snapped this picture while I was working on Season 13 of Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. In this crew alone were four generations of Trainees in vastly different roles on the show ranging from the creative to the administrative all the way down to the coffee getting variety. I was fortunate to learn from Writer/1st AD, Stuart Feldman, Director/Producer, Mike Smith & 2nd AD, Michelle Regina. It just goes to show that there are endless possibilities once you finish the program."
"In a fast-paced, involved industry, being a Trainee affords you the opportunity to experience (and adapt to) new things, to ask questions, and to meet lots and lots of people. All this occurs while you are actively working in production of films and television. The Training Program is an osmotic process; Simply by doing you are developing. Jumping from project to project, you work closely with many different types of Directors, Producers and ADs and by the end, cultivate a style all your own. So while there is no guarantee of future success, standing on the frozen tundra I was amazed at how far I had gone."
"I had the opportunity to work in the production office, did lock ups during shooting, was responsible for the production report, assisted with talent contracts, helped set background, liaised with multiple departments; and was present for just about every request that came over the walkie. As a Commercial Trainee, I had an integral part to play in the success of a shoot and loved every minute of not having a minute."
"We all apply to the DGA program knowing that it will not be easy, that we will be facing rough and challenging work. We expect it to be that way. We learn how to handle it. But there is a little secret that not everybody talks about, and that is the unique sense of belonging that DGA trainees find in each particular assignment. We are AD's in training, yes, but we are also there to build a family comprised of long lasting friends, weave a web of well-connected colleagues and be part of a story full of unforgettable moments recorded only in the minds of those behind the cameras."