Students are paired with mentors, who offer counsel before and after graduation, easing the transition from university life to professional careers. Thesis scripts written by students in the program are offered to hundreds of agents, producers and executives each year. A speaker series brings top writers and executives to USC for lively dialogue each week with Screen and Television Writing Division students, in addition to frequent guest lecturers who visit various classes. That Rocks the Cradle were written as student projects. Other alumni are creating video games, working as creative executives at independent companies and writing scripts on assignment.
Students have numerous opportunities to interact with film and television industry professionals.
The Entertainment Industry Seminar and other classes include visits from writers, directors, actors, agents, producers and lawyers, giving students the opportunity to learn from the horse's mouth. Zaki Gordon Memorial Speaker Series. Each Friday, the Writing Division sponsors a Guest Speaker Series. It gives you the opportunity to meet industry professionals in a special small forum focused to your interests and needs. A Graduate Screenwriting student conducts an interview with the guest, followed by an extensive question and answer period.