It can be daunting to go through online applications. Have you covered everything you want to say? Have you said enough? Have you said too much? It can be easy to keep putting off the process until the last minute, even if it’s something you really want to do. It helps to put aside the application for a moment and to really think about why it is you want to apply. I find it helps to write out a list, as I did for The Network:
1. Gaining PRACTICAL TV making skills. This was perhaps my top reason for applying to The Network. It’s good to talk about things theoretically but I think there is nothing better than going out there and getting stuck in and learning through doing. Some of the best lessons I learnt in filming came from being involved in Guild TV, my university’s TV station. Things like ensuring the sound recorded properly onto the zoom and getting to grips with white balance in tricky lighting conditions. If yo’d like to try multi-camera directing, The Network offers the chance to have a go at this, as well as researching, scriptwriting, producing and vision mixing to name a few.
2. It’s FREE! This is a bonus as many introductory filming courses cost upwards of £100. You only have to pay to get to Edinburgh as the accommodation, travel and food are all paid for. But train tickets aren’t always cheap so it’s worth investing in a Railcard (16-25s usually get 1/3 off travel. They’re also available for people who are disabled, elderly, have children…and there’s even a discount card for couples travelling together! See Railcard‘s website for more details).
3. Coached by leading programme makers. Learning about a range of topics through interactive talks and workshops. This includes icebreaker games, for instance, which help you to learn more about the business of TV and how shows are commissioned. Last year’s schedule also included CV clinics and masterclasses from directors, talent managers, production co-ordinators etc. What could be better?
4. Meeting like-minded people. It’s a great networking opportunity, not only to meet people who have already made it in TV but also to team up with talented people who aspire to work in the same industry as you. There are social events in the evenings too.
5. A great CV booster. Not only will you develop key skills and build your contacts, but you will also be able to talk about your experiences in future job applications and interviews. With such a wide range of industry sponsors, this experience could really make you stand out.
6. It’s open to everyone over 18. As long as you’ve had less than 3 months paid TV experience (anything over and you’re probably doing quite well for yourself already!) and in your final year if you’re a student, you are eligible. It doesn’t matter about your background or where you’re from.
7. It’s in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital and the host city of the The Guardian Edinburgh International TV Festival, a charity which has been running this prestigious media event, by and for the TV industry, every year since 1976. The Network runs from 25-28th August which coincides with the TV Festival as well as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. After The Network finishes, why not go and check out some of the fantastic shows and events on offer?
These are my reasons for applying to The Network’s scheme for those starting out in TV. But why not see for yourself? Take a look at the promotional video for it below and check out the website for more information or follow them on Twitter: @TheNetwork_TV. Subscribe to the Edinburgh International Television Festival‘s YouTube channel to see what successful The Network alumni got up to during their 4 days in Edinburgh.
Good luck everyone and make sure to finish your application by Mon 4th April 2015!
Suna Yokes BLOGS 