Expanding My Professional Network

After three amazing weeks in ISM, I have made a lot of progress in expanding my professional network and connecting with some experienced animators. This past week, I have made around thirty new connections over Linkedin, and I have sent invitations to at least twenty more. I also scheduled my first two interviews: the first with Dave Vallone, a supervising animator at Reelfx Creative Studios, for this Wednesday at 11:00 a.m, and the second with Amanda Lucas, a visual development artist at Brazen Animation, for next Tuesday morning. I am ecstatic to learn more about the animation industry and the overall tasks involved with various positions.

In my search for possible interviewees, I have managed to connect with around five professionals who graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design, my top choice for college. One important thing I have learned so far from using Linkedin is that connecting with people is easier and more natural when you have something in common with the person you are reaching out to. Since I have a large interest in SCAD, I have included it in my personalized invitation notes to the alumni, and they have all responded happily and willing to assist me with my research.

During my interviews in the next few weeks, my goals are to absorb as much information as I possibly can and maybe even connect with someone strongly enough that I may ask them to be my mentor. I have never set foot in any kind of animation studio before, so I can’t wait to experience one for the first time on Wednesday!