Meet James. He hails from Seattle. After graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in Biology he moved to San Diego to help us make films after seeing and an ad on Craigslist. Yes, Craigslist. The strange recruiting tactics seemed to have worked, because he’s been with us for nearly a year. I recently sat down with James to learn more about his time with Invisible Children. Here’s what he had to say:
What does a typical day as a Production Assistant look like?
I can honestly say that there is no typical day. There are daily tasks that I do, but aside from those, each day is different. My job first and foremost is to assist our production manager and then second, help the art department with any tasks they may need. That could be anything from organizing the film room, setting up equipment, and helping with film shoots. It’s a mix between a camera assistant, a PA, and an office manager.
What sets your internship apart from others and what impact are you able to make in your specific role?
My internship is unique because it’s so hands-on. You train as you go, which is how I learn, and so I’ve been able to grow a lot just by being here. I work a lot with other departments and because of that I’m able to make an impact throughout the organization.
What’s one thing that you’ve learned at Invisible Children that you’ll carry with you after your internship is over?
I’ve learned that it doesn’t hurt to ask. I’ve heard that before, but I didn’t really know what that meant until I came here. To get the most out of this internship, you need be open to new opportunities.
In one sentence, why do you love working at Invisible Children?
I love working at Invisible Children because there is a collaboration of talent that you can’t find anywhere else. Period.
What advice would you give a future intern?
Similar to earlier, it doesn’t hurt to ask, and always be open to anything coming your way.
What’s your favorite part about living in San Diego?
I’m from Seattle and San Diego really reminds me of Seattle, with all of the different neighborhoods that both cities have. San Diego has sunnier weather. I feel at home here. I could see myself living here. I do miss the cloudiness and the rain though.
Invisible Children is all about community. What’s it like living and working with other interns?
I’ll be honest, it can be difficult, but it is very exciting. It’s awesome to have the opportunity to live and work with everyone. To know everyone on that deeper level has been a great experience. I’m able to appreciate everyone for who they truly are.
What’s been your favorite memory so far?
I don’t think I can boil it down to just one memory. So much has happened over the course of my time here. Everything is connected. If I had to choose one event it would be MOVE:DC, from last semester. I was a camera assistant during MOVE:DC and during the march I walked the march route three times in order to get all of the footage we needed. Although it was chaotic, there were moments when I looked around me and saw all of the red shirts and the sea of people, and realizing that we were standing in front of the White House. Everyone was chanting not in anger, but with a genuine want for justice. There was a moment when the magnitude of the event and the weight of what was happening hit me and I will remember that for the rest of my life.
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