Is becoming a story editor right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become a Story Editor
Becoming a story editor typically involves a mix of education, writing experience, and industry networking. Here's a general path to help you pursue a career as a story editor:
- Earn a Relevant Degree: While not strictly required, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in English, Creative Writing, Film Production, or Screenwriting can build a strong foundation in storytelling, structure, and narrative development. A Master’s Degree in Screenwriting or a related field can further refine your skills, expand your industry knowledge, and offer valuable networking opportunities.
- Build a Strong Writing Portfolio: Create original pilot scripts and spec scripts for existing shows to showcase your writing voice, ability to follow format, and understanding of character and dialogue.
- Gain Entry-Level Industry Experience: Roles such as writer’s assistant, script coordinator, or production assistant offer a close look at how television writers’ rooms operate and can serve as stepping stones toward becoming a writer.
- Work Your Way Up the Writers’ Room: Most story editors begin as staff writers. After demonstrating consistent skill and collaboration, writers are often promoted to story editor and eventually to higher-level roles.
- Network and Seek Mentorship: Attend writing workshops, labs, and networking events. Connecting with other writers, producers, and industry professionals can open doors and lead to mentorship opportunities.
Screenwriting Fellowships and Programs
Here are some viable and respected screenwriting fellowships and programs that can help aspiring story editors and television writers gain industry experience, mentorship, and exposure:
- Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop: An intensive program designed for new and diverse television writers. Participants attend weekly workshops, receive feedback from industry professionals, and are considered for staffing on Warner Bros. shows.
- NBCUniversal Writers on the Verge: Aimed at writers who are ready to break into the television industry, this program focuses on polishing writers’ scripts and pitching skills. Participants also receive mentorship from NBCUniversal executives.
- CBS Writers Mentoring Program: A six-month program that pairs emerging writers with CBS executive mentors. It includes writing workshops, networking opportunities, and the chance to build relationships with showrunners and producers.
- Sundance Institute Episodic Lab: A prestigious lab that supports emerging writers developing original episodic work. Writers receive individualized feedback, attend development sessions, and connect with showrunners, producers, and executives.
- Disney Television Writing Program: Offers full-time salaried positions for participants to write for Disney television shows. Writers receive mentorship and are placed on writing staffs based on studio needs.
- Humanitas New Voices Program: Connects writers with experienced television showrunners for mentorship and support, with a focus on amplifying diverse voices and socially relevant storytelling.