Community College Students To Receive More Internships In Film

STUDIO CITY, CA — A new partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences aims to increase opportunities for community colleges in California. Up to 10 internships at major film studios for the production track will now be reserved for California community college students.

The Academy typically offers 80 - 100 summer internships, and say they receive up to 10,000 applications in total.

"California community college students are learning all the skills necessary to enter the film industry from directing to cinematography, costume design to editing. Their life experiences ... juggling families, work and education, give them a unique perspective on storytelling and that's why I am so excited about this partnership with the Academy and California's major film studios," California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Oakley said.

The Academy Gold Rising Program was established in 2017, aiming to improve diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. The program works with multiple studios, industry suppliers and key organizations to create eight-week paid internships that offer education and networking experience.

“We’re grateful to Chancellor Oakley and his team for this opportunity to provide more opportunities across the film industry to students at California community colleges,” said Christine Simmons, chief operating officer, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. “We’re eager for students participating in Academy Gold Rising to gain deeper knowledge of the various professions in film, and also recognize that the industry at large will be greatly enriched by the experiences and insights they have to share.”

“The California community college experience is about providing students with classroom instruction and hands-on learning that leads to high wage, high growth jobs in their career of choice,” said Sheneui Weber, vice chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development. “This is an incredible opportunity for our students to showcase their amazing talents, to share their stories, and pursue career opportunities right in the capital of the global film industry!”