My script was just an outline when I arrived. By the end of the two weeks, I had finished and polished an hour-long pilot. Ben, Heidi, and Carlo, gave me great feedback that helped me understand my characters better and craft a well-paced story. I really appreciated how their advice was never prescriptive; they helped me find solutions that let me tell my story in my own voice. The rest of the group too had wonderful and creative suggestions, and we all were supportive of each others’ work and process, despite our differences in background and experience levels.
Since coming home (and be advised that re-entry to the world is difficult), we have remained friends and collaborators. The group was amazing in giving me feedback on a proposal I was developing, and I’ve loved being in touch with them about their new projects. We also exchange goofy text messages, food recommendations, and get together whenever we can. Alana, my roommate in Orvieto, even joined me for Thanksgiving dinner.
The experience was exactly what I dreamed it would be. The things I learned from Ben, Heidi, and Carlo not only helped me finish my script but will also help me in creating new work. I can’t wait to go back, start a new script, and eat more gelato.