Recap: Women of Cinematic Arts Industry Panel w/ Sarah Gilman

By: Jordan Bucknor ‘22

One of the first clubs I signed up for as a freshman at USC, even before I officially began studying screenwriting, was Women of Cinematic Arts. As someone who did, and still does want to work in the film industry, I thought it’d be a great way to meet people with similar interest — and it is! In their own words, Women of Cinematic Arts is an “official alumnae organization of the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts. Since our founding in 2005, we have been dedicated to supporting women in film, television and digital industries by providing fellowship and professional development opportunities.”

The organization hosts a variety of different events, from mixers to creative workshops, but a recent event that truly stood out was an industry panel featuring Sarah Gilman! Sarah Gilman, an actress known from series such as I Didn’t Do It (2014–2015) and Foursome (2016–Present), recently graduated from USC’s Film and Television Production program. Hosted by Women of Cinematic Arts, Gilman returned to campus for an intimate discussion about her experience balancing life as an actor and a student.

Traveling between set and class was not easy, especially in Los Angeles traffic, but Gilman proved that it was definitely possible. Even with her filming schedule delaying her initial graduation date, she still managed to finish school with acting credits, self-directed film projects, and a membership to Delta Kappa Alpha under her belt.

Sarah Gilman stands out not just because of how she was able to balance her career and school life, but because of her use of social media. She openly advocates for social issues like climate change, gun control, and reproductive rights to her 90,000 followers on Twitter and almost 900,000 followers on Instagram. Gilman believes “there’s a responsibility for what you put into the world” and as such, uses her platform to not only show off her awesome Halloween costumes or reunions with fellow Disney starts, but to share resources of how people can advocate for their rights and the earth.

As a recent graduate, Gilman chose to leave current students with advice she’s found relevant in her own career. While the tips were specifically given in regard to the film industry, this advice is widely applicable!

1. The entertainment business “is all about relationships.”

Gilman believes it’s important for one to always put their best foot forward because even if it may not seem like it, someone is always watching. Gilman shared how “being nice and being attentive on set goes a long way,“ especially when those around you are not. Elaborating more on the important of relationships, Gilman believes “people like to talk about themselves,” so if you’re hoping to form a deeper connection with someone, “ask a lot of questions!” Similarly, Gilman believes “most people want to help someone because it comes back around,” so don’t be afraid to reach out! If you don’t ask, the answer is already no.

2. There are no seats at the table, so “bring your own chair and sit at the table anyway.”

Yeah, it’s a little nerve-racking to think how there may not be space in whatever field you’re trying to get into, but if that does happen to be the case, don’t let that put a stop to your goals. Don’t be discouraged! Make space. Take up space. Don’t be afraid to be bold within your industry and as Gilman stated, just “shoot your shot!”

3. “You have to learn to take criticism.”

Life is really really hard if you take everything to heart. As Gilman shared, “People will say things that they don’t understand the gravity of” and you have to learn how to just brush it off. Learn to discern when something is applicable constructive criticism and when something’s honestly just a trash opinion.

4. “Develop your portfolio/resume; the more you have, the better!”

Do student films! Go to improv classes! Get involved in student organizations! Experience comes in all shapes and forms so make sure you’re taking advantage of the resources that are literally right at your fingertips!

Whether or not you want to get into the entertainment industry, anyone who can juggle numerous professional engagements, a school schedule, and Los Angeles traffic definitely has some good advice.

Sarah Gilman plans to continue acting and hopes to someday transition into sitcom television directing. You can follow along on her journey (and learn new ways to get involved in social activism) here and here! If you’re interested in Women of Cinematic Arts and their other industry panels you can reach out to them here for more information!

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