Production Assistants

There are many ways to gain experience with filmmaking. Some high schools have film clubs and classes in film or video. Experience in theater can also be useful. To learn more, you can work as a volunteer for a local theater or a low-budget film project; these positions are often advertised in local trade publications. You may also be able to volunteer with your state's film commission, helping to solicit production companies to do their filming in the state. Film festivals also usually need volunteers; keep track of those coming to your area and visit their Web sites to search for volunteer opportunities.

Students interested in production work should read as much as possible about the film and television industry, starting at a school or public library. Trade journals can be very helpful as well; the two most prominent ones are Daily Variety (https://www.variety.com) and Hollywood Reporter (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com). These resources will have information about production studios that will prove very useful for prospective PAs.