<p>gladiatorbird, I’m a little sniff-sniff sorry that the financials did not work out at USC. However, Dodge seems to have a very exciting program and wonderful teachers. Your S is lucky to get a terrific scholarship. </p>
<p>I’ve worked in the entertainment business for a long time (Above the line–no one I know says ATL, dig, but maybe it’s because we’re so old?), and there are many paths. No one needs a degree in film, actually. I know a family whose S went to USC film school on a full scholarship, got a tattoo the first week he was there (!), got mesmerized by the Red camera, and dropped out of school to pursue all the jobs he had lined up. I’m not sure that’s what most parents have in mind when we research the perfect (ha) schools, figure out financial aid, etc. But I must say this young man had a lot of drive. He simply did not want to “waste” his time doing GEs and other college stuff.</p>
<p>One of the skills needed to get a foot in the industry door is the people skills to make connections, network, and keep in touch with all the execs, and producers your school helps you get in contact with. The more go-getter, make it happen, keep on plugging, make friends, know-someone-who-knows-someone (like that producer working in Shanghai) a person is, the more suited they are succeed at an ATL career. It takes more than talent and great work habits. It takes a lot of guts and, frankly, a good bit of luck too. Those whose personalities fit better with steady work and paychecks, great technical prowess, creative eye and spirit may find themselves a good career BTL.</p>