Is Applying to Writing Fellowship Programs Worth It?
Writing fellowships are a great way to develop your skills as a writer. The programs are usually small ranging from three to six writers, depending on the studio. This small and intimate setting allows for focused development. It’s a great chance to learn what it’s like to live life as a writer while getting paid to do so. Most programs last for several months to a full year where you’ll pretty much be writing on a daily basis.
A lot of entertainment studios have some sort of writing program or fellowship from Nickelodeon Animation Studio to NBC Universal’s Writer’s on the Verge and they all differ in some aspects. Depending on the program, you might be required to provide a spec script or two, while another wants to see an original pilot. If you’re unfamiliar with what a spec script is, it is taking an on-air show like Rick & Morty or Brooklyn Nine-Nine and writing your own episode to it. The program will usually tell you what shows they accept. They will be all current series and most of them would be popular shows at the time.
You should consider applying to a program if you’re interested in entertainment writing but have no idea how to get your foot in the door. It’s like a paid internship where you’re able to network with industry professionals while developing your writer’s voice. It’s open to anyone and most are paid gigs! The objective after the fellowship ends is to secure a writing gig and most do. There have even been alumni who were able to pitch a show and get it to greenlight. These programs groom you for whatever field you’re interested in, whether it is for animation or live-action or both. Overall, writing programs are great opportunities to network and develop relationships all while you’re getting paid to write and receiving professional feedback from your scripts.
All programs have various deadlines for submissions so please be sure and keep up to date with the fellowships you’re interested in. They can vary from year to year so it’s best to follow them on social media so you can be notified if anything changes.
If this sounds like something you’re interested in, I’ve gathered a couple of writing fellowship programs you can check out.
National Hispanic Media Coalition TV Writing Program (Open April)
Walt Disney Television Writing Program
NBC/Universal Writers on the Verge
Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship
Best of luck!