CBS DIVERSITY INSTITUTE
Writers Mentoring Program
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What writing samples are appropriate for submission?
Two writing samples are required. The original work can be a screenplay for a motion picture or a stage play or a short fiction story. The screenplay should be the standard length of approximately 120 pages. The stage play may be in one, two or three acts. The short fiction piece should be approximately 3,000 words. Spec scripts should be a half hour or hour episode based on a current primetime drama or comedy television series which aired new episodes during the 2007/08 season and was broadcast on any network or cable channel.
2. What writing samples are unacceptable for submission?
Unacceptable materials include: treatments, outlines, newspaper or magazine articles, novels, sequels to motion pictures or original television pilots.
3. Can I resubmit the same writing samples as I did for a previous Session?
Please do not resubmit the same writing samples you used for previous applications. The criteria used for evaluating material is identical to prior year's , so if your previous samples were not selected for the Program, it is unlikely they would be selected this time. However, if you have SIGNIFICANTLY rewritten your material, you may submit it for consideration.
4. In the case of a writing team submission, must we file separate applications?
No. It is not necessary to submit separate applications. However, each team member should submit a separate resume or bio and letter of interest.
5. If I don't work or live in the United States, am I eligible to apply to this Program?
Yes, however, CBS does not provide any travel or accommodation reimbursement.
6. Where is the Program being held?
The Program is held in Los Angeles, and all participants will need to be close to Los Angeles for the duration of the Program in order to participate in Program activities. As stated above, participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses.
7. What is the duration of the program and the required time commitment?
The Program is expected to run approximately six months, beginning in November 2008. Program hours and activities will vary, but regular meetings with mentors and fellow program members are an intrinsic part of the Program and may require a time commitment of up to twenty hours a month. Additionally, to get the maximum benefits from the Program, participants should be available a minimum of five full days (not necessarily in sequence) over the duration of the seven months.
8. Who can legally notarize my Submission Release Form?
Only a commissioned Notary Public. A signature AND a notary stamp or seal is required on each of the submission release forms. Unfortunately, your application will not be considered if your release forms are not properly notarized.
9. How many participants will be chosen?
Up to ten participants will be selected for the 2008 - 2009 Program.
10. What is the compensation for participating in the Program?
The CBS Writers Mentoring Program is not employment and there is no monetary compensation.
11. How are the matches made between the Program Participants and Mentors?
Matches are made based on career interests and mentor availability. Each semi-finalist will be interviewed by a potential mentor.
12. Must I send my application package by registered or overnight mail?
No. You are not required to send your submission through registered or overnight mail. You may choose to use these services for your own proof of mailing records.
13. Must my application be postmarked or received by June 1, 2008?
Your application MUST be POSTMARKED no later than June 1, 2008. Applications postmarked after June 1, 2008 will not be processed.
14. When and how will I be informed as to whether or not I have been chosen to participate in the Program?
All applicants will be notified, via e-mail, of their status in October. Semi-finalists will be invited for a personal interview at that time. Finalists will be chosen and notified by the end of October. PLEASE NO TELEPHONE INQUIRIES.
15. Must I submit a resume, even if I have not worked as a professional writer?
Yes. All applicants must submit either a work resume or a short biographical summary as part of the selection process.
16. Can you suggest any reading materials for new television writers?
Yes.
Writing for Episodic Television From Freelance to Showrunner edited by John Wirth and Jeff Melvoin.
An invaluable booklet published by The Writers Guild of America. You can download the booklet from the WGA website (go to www.wga.org. Click on "Publications" and then Click on "Writing for Episodic Television.") You can also purchase a hardcopy of the booklet ($3.00) by calling the Operations department of the Writers Guild at 323-782-4687 and requesting the booklet by title.Writing the Television Drama Series by Pamela Douglas, published by Michael Wiese, 2007. A great step-by-step approach to writing a one-hour drama.
Making a Good Script Great 2nd edition by Linda Seger, Samuel French Trade c. 1987.
A very helpful book that can teach you how to you improve your script.How to Make it In Hollywood 2nd edition by Linda Buzzell, HarperResource Books, 1996.
An excellent introduction to the entertainment industry including how to get into the business and how to move up.The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri, Touchstone Books, 1972. One of the best books on the basics of character creation and dramatic writing.