Call for Applicants Email Template

Target Audience: Universities, Organizations, Mailing Lists 

The Academy Software Foundation’s Diversity & Inclusion Group is excited to announce our fourth annual Summer Learning Program. Taking place this year between June 16 - August 9, the program’s goal is to prepare individuals from underrepresented communities for technical careers in the film, media and entertainment industry. The program accepts 20 learners of varied backgrounds from all over the globe to participate.

The program is completely online/remote and includes self-guided online lessons in the participant’s chosen focus area as well as group sessions featuring guest speakers from the industry. Previous experience is not a requirement; beginners are encouraged to apply. We are searching for passionate, dedicated individuals of all skill levels. 

Each participant will also be matched with an industry professional and is expected to have weekly one-on-one sessions with their mentor to help them develop the necessary and competitive skills needed for these technical careers. Past mentors have included professionals from DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic, Netflix, Amazon Web Services, Pixar and Autodesk.

The Summer Learning Program operates under three focus pillars: 

  • Learning

  •  

    • Access to high-quality, online learning courses

    • Speaker series with industry professionals

  • Community

  •  

    • Dedicated chat space with fellow learners

    • Small group learning opportunities

    • Study hours and social activities

  • Mentorship

  •  

    • Paired with an individual mentor for the duration of the program

    • Opportunity to chat with guest mentors to expand learning throughout



The Summer Learning Program is continually looking to expand our reach and access to communities and individuals who might not otherwise learn about the exciting career opportunities on the technical side of the media and entertainment industry. We would appreciate your help in spreading the word - please feel free to forward this email to any organization or person you think may be interested in applying or help amplify by sharing the application via your social media. Applications for this year’s program launch March 1, and can be found here. 

Please reply to this email with any questions, and a member of the SLP team will get back to you!Â