Congratulations graduating seniors!! Whether you're feeling relieved, lost, or excited about your next steps, don't fret because our friend Thalia Nalapraya (Production Coordinator, Netflix Animation Studios, @cosmo.compass) has got some advice for you. Big thank you to Thalia for sharing her thoughts in this Q&A! Read on for insights about graduation, dealing with rejection, and networking. What was your inspiration to enter the animation industry? I’ve always loved animation since I was little. When we had cable, I would spend my days watching Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and AXN (the Asian action channel that had any sort of anime). Oh, and re-watching all my Disney VHS tapes too. When I got older I thought I would be making comics, but in college I discovered there are career opportunities in animation studios— since then, I couldn’t stand the idea of not working in animation. Is there anything that you wish you knew before you graduated? Don’t give up on your dreams. It’s ok to get rejected. You just have to keep trying. And don’t be afraid to bother people for coffee. What kept you motivated during your job hunting phase, and how did you deal with rejections? I actually did give up for a little while, when I got rejected by several interviews as a Nicktern. I took on other jobs that were still somewhat with the industry. It was really fun and fulfilling, but after a while talking to production and creatives I decided to give it another try— so I put it out there to my circle that I was looking for a PA gig. I started reaching out to friends for visits and studio tours, ran into more old friends and chatted to see what it was like to work on a show. Eventually someone remembered I was looking and asked if I would be interested in applying. Did you ever have doubts about your career choice? If so, how did you deal with it? All the time! But I always told myself there’s a reason why I’m here in this spot now. Everyone is on their own journey and we must never be hard on ourselves for taking our time with things and that it’s ok to feel like you failed, because everyone goes through it. Don’t give up, stay motivated, what matters now is what you’re going to do about it next. What would you advise someone who’s unsure which career path to pursue when they’re passionate about several roles? Try talking to people in those roles and ask them what it’s like, what are the prerequisite skills if any. If you’re still stuck, try picking one and give it your absolute best! You’ll find out if it’s for you or not. If you get hired, ask your company if they’re open to you switching roles in the future. I’ve met a lot of people who talked about how they found out later they were passionate for another role. Talk to editors, technical directors, artist managers, previs or layout, etc. How do you keep yourself motivated in such a tough and competitive industry? And, do you have any tips for keeping self esteem high? Have more fun! A lot of time we get worried about how tough and competitive the industry is and it’s going to get you down. When I was a newcomer I always made sure to stay professional (which yes, do that!) but if you loosen up a little and have fun with it, I think you’ll find it keeps you happy and motivated. I spent a lot of years being hard on myself and worried a lot — it lowered my confidence. It wasn’t until I changed my mindset I felt like I could talk to people, pursue opportunities, and have new ideas. Most importantly, surround yourself with people who will lift you up and cheer you on. Those are great friends to have! Do you have any tips on networking and making solid connections in the industry? For most people, networking can be a gross word. I totally get it. When I talk to people with the idea of needing something from them, I feel guilty and awful. So instead I try to see it as making new friends. I always do my best to get to know the other person and more often that person is really open to sharing their knowledge about their role. By the end of it, if you feel like they’re vibing with you, you can ask if they’re ok with you contacting them for any questions about their role. And don’t forget to check in or follow up (I’m really bad at that!) Writers: Jordan (@deadswampsofsadness) | Point Person: Gaby, AIA Team
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