CFA: What was your role in the internship? What were some of your responsibilities?

Ami: As a production intern, I mainly work as a production assistant who assists the production managers before, during, and after the shooting. It is most rewarding to witness the entire production process, from brainstorming to post-production. I also work as a planner, where I get to combine my imagination with clients’ objectives to create exciting content. In the past two years, I’ve been involved in an original animation series, TV series, feature films, social media promotions, and live experience exhibitions.

CFA: How did you learn about the internship? What steps did you take to secure it?

Ami: I found out about the company when they were looking for interns in 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic. The company was looking to meet a variety of young creators while providing us with opportunities during the first lockdown. It started as a four-month program where I joined the company alongside 10 other talented creators of different ages and interests. At the end of the four months, I was offered an extension of the contract. Since then, I’ve been working there online and in person!

CFA: Any notable accomplishments from the internship?

Ami: I had never imagined myself working with acclaimed industry professionals at 20. I go to the office and get greeted by film directors, comic artists, creative directors, and producers. I’ve met so many amazing creative people through this opportunity, and working with them in a team is both challenging and inspiring.

CFA: How did the coursework at CFA connect with your internship?

Ami: My production experience in the School of Theatre (SOT) allowed me to feel confident around industry professionals and in production teams. I am fearless when facing challenges or problems because I know different ways to approach them. It has encouraged me to take on new challenges that sometimes transcend the bounds of my position and has always brought me wonderful experiences.
 
The power of storytelling is the most important thing I learn every day at SOT. Whether making a film or a commercial, you always tell a story. Your job is to use your creative skills to deliver that story in a way that can inspire people. This mindset truly helped me initiate fruitful conversations with other collaborators and creators in the team.

CFA: In what ways do you think the internship has helped you prepare for your work beyond BU?

Ami: Even though I’ve only seen a part of it, I feel that I have a grasp of what the creative industry looks like. I see so much potential in collaboration between different types of artists, which is something that I would love to keep exploring throughout my career.

CFA: What did you learn about yourself?

Ami: That I am most happy when I’m creating and storytelling! It gives me so much energy and adrenaline that I sometimes push myself too hard… Time management is not only important for you to finish everything, but also it makes you focus on one thing at a time. I am so grateful that I get to do what I love and put a smile on someone’s face!

CFA: Any advice for current CFA students beginning the internship process?

Ami: Don’t be afraid to step into a new world! It is great if it’s the right place for you, and it’s also ok if it’s not. You can learn about yourself and what you value in your art if you have the courage to grab new opportunities and challenge yourself.

CFA: What’s next for you, Ami?

Ami: I am a scenic designer for Mark Adamo’s Little Women, a Boston University Opera Institute production opening in February at BU’s Joan & Edgar Booth Theatre. I am also designing scenery and props for Alligator-a-Phobia in 3D!, a musical by Jay Eddy (CFA‘23) directed by Shamus (CFA‘23) at the Boston Playwrights Theatre!