UGFTV Alum Vanessa Benton (2015), first opportunity after graduating Tisch, was on BET's, In Contempt, as a showrunner's assistant. From there, she worked on, How to Get Away with Murder. She started as a showrunner's assistant, then writer's assistant. This season, she was given the opportunity to wrtie an episode of How to Get Away with Murder. The episode will be airing this Halloween (10/31/19)!
Her next adventure is going to be on Netflix's. It will be her first full staff writer position.
In her own words, "Without a doubt, the opportunities I've had since I graduated from TISCH UGFTV could not have been possible without the guidance of some of my professors at NYU. I had the honor of being mentored by Susan Sandler (feature film writing), who has always advocated for me and my art. During my time as a student and beyond, Susan opened doors to opportunities that have been monumental to my career as a writer. Vondie Curtis Hall was a phenomenal professor who was also pivotal to me finding my footing post-graduation. Participating in the Fusion Film Festival introduced me to so many powerful female filmmakers and created a network of women in TV/Film that I have learned from and looked to for guidance and support. Finally, the alumni of Tisch have been so open and caring -- some of who became mentors and guides to me when I moved out to LA."
Congratulations, Vanessa Benton!