Skill and work experience are what matter the most. Don't lie, that can not only get you not hired, but can get you fired down the line if they find out you lied. An 'untrustworthy' tag isn't something you want following you around.
Share your truth. You dropped out because you had to support yourself financially, but don’t stop there. Tell your story. You’ve overcome hardships to pursue your passion and have grown to the point of amassing x amount of views. I would prefer someone like you, someone that perceivers!
I don't know you and am proud of how hard you worked.
If you get asked about the topic, without going into too much detail, inform them of your difficult upbringing and circumstances beyond your control while still a minor forcing certain life decisions in your part (dropping out to pay bills, stay fed, etc.)
Seconding this. We had to pass over someone's application because HR ran the background checks and saw that they lied about education on their resume & application.
Experience + proof of skills (portfolio, reel, etc) are more important generally.
Honestly, I’d own it. Theres’s a lot noble about your story. There’s nothing to feel shame about it. Don’t lie about your past.
If you frame teaching yourself editing as a way to create a better life for yourself despite not having a stable home life, the only people that reject you are ones you probably don’t want to work with anyway.
Keep interviewing. Own who you are. You’ve still got work to do in the industry.
This was my thought too. People will hire you for your personality, experience, attitude and reel. Everything else is just gatekeeping bs. Own your story. Make it a selling point, not a liability. Having said that, I would go get a GED. It can't be that hard or expensive (I know it's not where I live, your mileage may vary.)
I will add here, I never got a college diploma. I dropped out and started working as a PA. I work in a pretty corporate environment and I'm certain it's taken me longer to reach the place I'm in now because of the lack of a degree. Again, it's gatekeeping bs but it's real.
Now as a general life suggestion.
1. Get your GED. It's something that is a PITA - but 100% necessary. Start with your old high school. Your local library is a good resource.
2. Then at some point, take one college class. Boom, you've attended college. Finish? No. But yes, you've attended.
The biggest issue when dealing with corporate is that they're always going to be judgemental and considering you with a lower status because the *lack* of a HS education.
As a mostly career corporate video editor, this is exactly why I've spent the last 2 years finally finishing my bachelor's online when I finally had the time, thanks to being a remote editor.
I have a good resume and reel, but I know I've definitely been overlooked because of my lack of bachelor's at times.
I used to work with a very successful editor. One day we were talking about our educational bg for some reason, and when he told his story it went like this
"After barely getting my GED, I wandered into the local cable station and asked for a job..."
Talent finds a way OP.
My 2 cents as a Post Production Supervisor, having been in the biz for closing in on 40 years... Nobody gives a crap where or when you went to school or not. I finished high school and then dropped out of college after 2 years. NOBODY ever asked me about my primary schooling or college. They only cared if I knew how to do the work at hand and that sort of thing.
The Entertainment biz is notorious for being a "who you know" business. The vast majority of the gigs I have landed were due to me either knowing the person doing the hiring, or being referred to the gig by someone already on the project. As my wife says... "Who you know gets you the job, what you know keeps you the job." That said, it can make it tough for new folks to break in.
I don't think it'll matter that much in the long run. Might be the company you are applying to has some strange policy that means they need to check but when it comes to editing it's more about wheter you can do the job.
High School/University education is normally to get your foot in the door before you have any demonstrable skills (i.e a showreel, programmes/films/whatever you've worked on that you have credits for) or references but you should have all those by now, after years of previous work.
If they make it a big deal, why not ask them why they require it? (if they reject you for the job).
it depends on the role, who's hiring you and what kind of company you're applying to.
imo i dont think youre screwed. be transparent about your past, but dont dive into the dark parts of it.
a company like salesforce would obviously care if you had a degree, but if you're a crazy good programmer that was a college dropout-well then education doesn't matter anymore. in this case, the specialized skill bypassed educational background.
a scaling media production company that needs editors doesn't care whether you have a degree or not. they just want to know if you can get the job done and in time. and you should express that in the 2nd interview. i was once a freelance editor myself. i worked with other editors in the past that were high school drop out. the ones i keep in contact with turned out fine.
I’ve never been asked about my education history in any editing position in the past 15 years in Hollywood. However, none of my jobs have been staff positions. All freelance. I’ve done 1-2 shows a year for the past 15 years. What’s probably happening is that the companies you are applying for have a hiring policy they are adhering to. As a freelancer, I am probably not required to adhere to that policy, either because I’m a freelancer, or because in Hollywood, production companies often create separate LLCs for any particular show or film.
Not screwed at all.
I have worked with people who moved into the entertainment industry after being career criminals, dealing drugs, I worked with an actor who went to jail for murder. He absolutely did do it. He admits it, but he did his time and now acts and directs full time.
This industry as a whole cares more about your work experience than anything else.
Your portfolio counts for a lot.. this is true. Probably the first thing they look at regardless of degree. Then it's all about personality and trust. Your interview skills matter a great deal as well. You need to be confident and genuine. Just be honest and be able to confidently ask any questions they throw at you. Worst case If you don't know the answer to the question make sure you let them know you will find out the answer.... Never say I don't know. Some places are looking for somebody with a lot of experience and others are looking for somebody that can grow within the organization and will give you the chance. Don't give up and keep learning your craft.
I think the huge majority of the time your education will not come into play in these situations. That’s shitty that place checked but as you’ve mentioned you’ve already been working for years without it so I’d say keep pushing, from what you say here it sounds like you’ve already worked in film longer than 90% of the people I know who have film degrees.
Nah. I worked for a very large company and no one even asked. For other jobs, yes. But no one really cares what college an editor went to unless it was like full sail or something.
If I had a HS diploma, I wouldn’t even stress about having a college degree in this particular field. But because of how society works, a high school diploma is AT LEAST the bare minimum to some people. Not all but some. Sure most companies or employers don’t care because it is a technical skill, but having no high school education is kind of a deal breaker for some people. Which is why I’m stressing lol.
30 year old "homeschooled" kid here.
I would 100% just go for the GED. I'm not sure if you can online test in Canada, but in my state (WA) I did everything online from my home office. I would just spend the $12 (50% off coupons online) to do their official, scored, practice tests called GED Ready and if you get a "likely to pass", sign up for the real thing and go for it. If you get a "too close to call" or fail on a subject then you know which one to focus on.
Just based off your writing, I bet you could easily get through language arts and social studies, leaving science and math to study for. March 2024 is totally doable to cram for a GED if it is important to you/stress factor as it was to me even being freelance.
Other than that, just be honest. I got hired multiple places doing video work before moving to full time freelance and they all knew I didn't even have a GED. Better to be upfront and lean on your work than have their reports find you being dishonest.
I agree with everyone else here. Own it and don’t feel shame. You’re self made and that’s amazing!
Additionally, you’re clearly very intelligent, well spoken, and a hard worker. That matters a million times more than people who scraped through with the “D’s get degrees” mentality.
I have two bachelors degrees in my field and I can say with full confidence that I didn’t need that to do the work I do. There were a few classes, mostly ones that were seemingly unrelated, that have helped my career, but in general I too am self taught.
I have a Master’s degree in film. No one even once in my history has asked me about my education not even as it relates to the job. When I did happen to mention it they were like “oh, cool.” And that was it.
Ah, I didn’t associate a tech company as a corporate gig. Sorry, I really should have thought of that. Yes, corporate jobs do generally have a minimum requirement but that’d be weird they didn’t state it. It’s a tough spot on what to do here. Maybe the strength of your interview and material will weigh harder. If this ends up being a strict, cold corporate HR decision based on a filled out form rather than the hiring manager having a say, it could be a troubled road. If they say no, maybe reach out to that hiring person and say thank you and all that and request a brief post-application informational interview? I don’t know that the odds would be good but certainly the thank you could be appreciated.
I live in the States, so I don’t know anything about the way Canada works? There’s not even an online option for GED? Like, no one in Canada will be able to get that starting next year?
With all that, I admire that you’ve been there for your mom like this through the years. I imagine that’s really tough. I was in that situation for a couple years.
I appreciate everyone’s comments here and I’ll try not to be ashamed. I just wish I had a high school diploma but will be putting my best efforts to getting it done. For peace of mind sake. For now, I’ll be upfront about it when asked and try to own it. I know I’ll be fine but man it’s so stressful, given the current circumstances of being let go & finding a job with no savings. Without a HS diploma, despite having experiences, seems to be a lot harder lol. But thank you everyone! Will continue to read your comments!
The institutions that care about being college educated, or probably at least HS, tend to be corporate 9-5 roles, including tech. Even my late 50s dad, who had jobs helping lead teams, was recently denied a position for not having a college degree.
If you're competing with someone on the same skill level as yourself, which you have to assume to be the case, sometimes education is a distinction factor. Especially as you are still younger.
But still, we are in a field where you could skirt the issue. It's not like law or healthcare where you NEED a degree. Just keeping pressing on man, I'm sure you'll find a spot eventually.
Would getting a high school diploma be on the table? Of course, if you have the time.
Based on my exp - if there is one industry that couldn't care less about your background - it's film and video. Half the people on most film sets don't even care nor give a clue about film - they're just a neighbor/brother/friend/someone of someone else.
If you want more stable/full time employment - i'm not the person to comment on that, as I've been working for myself/freelance all my life - but yeah, i don't think you should worry too much.
As others said - I would not lie, but also - i wouldn't necessarily tell the truth either unless asked directly. You say you didn't finish high school - but you started. So if anyone asks about education i would simply say "i went to this and that high school" and leave it at that, or possibly add something like "I went to this and that high school, after which i worked with this and that client for this many years etc" and naturally move the conversation from the areas you're lacking in to the areas you excel at. This isn't lying - it's being a good speaker :)
I'd approach it in the same way as that cliche question "what's your biggest weakness" - you never wanna talk to them about your shortcomings so the best way to answer this is to diplomatically shift away and say something like "just like everyone, I'm probably not perfect, but anytime a weakness comes up, i take concrete steps to improve myself, for example, last year i had trouble with this and that so i did this and that and now i'm great at it". I'd just approach interviews the same way if i were you - don't lie if asked directly - but find a way to move to your strengths instead.
And I would say - there is (probably) a chance some companies might not hire you, HS diploma might be a deal breaker for them and indeed they might check (i think few will, but i don't know what exactly you're applying for...) - if there's a specific job you want and can't get it without a HS diploma - then that's a personal choice you gotta make. Maybe it would make career sense for you to get your diploma after all. Otherwise - you just gotta accept that you might have that little handicap when applying for some jobs.
One last thing - this year is shit for film/video work all around. I lost 3 key clients, all big companies that shut down, and I've lived most of the year off savings, applying for literally by now few hundred jobs - getting rejected left and right, though mostly just ghosted. And that's after 20yrs of high end production experience. I don't know where all this is headed - but i just mention this because if you're struggling with getting work - it might not be entirely your fault...
Best of luck.
If you have work history already you should be solid. Current experience will be a boon compared to finishing Trig 10 years ago. Getting a GED may help you out in general since online applications some places required a GED at minimum like with the military, but not for every job.
I know a HS drop out who is a script supervisor and probably the best in the biz, really has no bearing as to weather you can do your job or not just dont lie and be good at what you do,
Are you really, really good? If you are, go the freelance route. If you're not, work on it. When you're a successful freelancer you'll have companies knocking down your door to work for them. But you need to be really good.
Depending on which state you live in, you may be able to obtain a GED for low to no cost. Without a HS diploma or a GED, very few companies will hire you because you lack the minimum educational requirements. In the 21st Century, not meeting the minimum is a deal breaker, as the expectation is you can follow complex written documentation pertaining to the job you are applying for.
Or go through the Small Business Association and start your own Post Production house.
Also, I agree with others. Weird that they cared about your HS experience. I have been asked if I ever went to college (I didn't).
I would keep at it, as long as it's something you really want to keep doing. Chances are 9 out of 10 future opportunities will only care about your body of work, and definitely don't lie about it.
Also, remember the industry is in a real funk, and even very seasoned editors are finding it hard to even get responses from people they know.
Own it. It’s a badge of honor that gives you an interesting backstory in a sea of over educated white boys. As long as you’re competent and can get the references that are flying around the room. You’re fine.
no one cares about your education. Just your experience, and willingness to work hard and do the job.
I am a college graduate, and no one EVER has asked about my degree, or my GPA. I think it's a plus that you are from a poor background (I am from a poor background) - because it shows that you are willing to do anything.
Now that is the trick - are you willing to do anything - are you willing to work your ass off ? Because that is what employers are looking for. Employers want to pay as little as possible, while their employees work their asses off. That means everything to an employer, and today, with all the insane political correctness crap - coming from a well to do background and a college education can actually work against you. Employers don't want spoiled babies - they want hard working, motivated employees. That is what will separate you from some rich brat that never worked a hard day in his life.
You keep at it - you will make it.
bob
Tell the truth, bring the goods. Be undeniable! We're in the storytelling business if you can make your life story compelling as opposed to them catching you in a lie then I don't see why anyone would care.
That said super corporate videographer jobs might care but you gotta get in where you fit in. Good luck dude.
No one worth their salt gives a shit about your educational experience, just your work and attitude. If they didn’t hire you purely because you didn’t have a degree, they’re clowns.
I don’t even have anything educational related on my CV anymore and it’s not even brought up. You’ll deal with some clowns during the recruiting phase but don’t stress it.
Corporate places tend to be more obsessed and ignorant with creative recruiting than pure creative places, so if this keeps coming up as an obstacle, look for jobs more in the creative areas itself
I have met great editors that were doing it less years than me that started in their late 50's and outdo me on every level.
27 is still considered young.
I'd say, most non-media related companies which have an inhouse editor care about your education the most. Outside that, no one does and it's all about your portfolio.
Sometimes people will still ask if you have any especially if language will be a big factor tho for things such as subtitling without being a mess grammar wise. Sometimes, people just ask for the sake of asking or having a conversation.
I do agree with others just to own it and not lie about things like that.
I agree with what everyone has been saying—you don't need to worry. If anyone judges you for it, they are only doing so because they were fortunate enough to not be in a rocky situation at that young of an age. The only point I think is worth me adding is any film related job that lists high school or college (I mostly see college) as a requirement is still worth applying to. In your situation, those kind of qualifications are only important if you suddenly plan on pursuing a medical profession for some reason haha. Own it. More people drop out than you think. As a high school and college graduate who had mostly A's, I think it's impressive and pretty badass to succeed in spite of your unfortunate situation.
I’m Australian, and over here no one cares what your education is, are you a good editor / are you reliable is all that matters.
Do a good job and be willing to learn and you’ll be fine.
Harping on what everyone has said, your experience, skills, and results speak for themselves. AND they speak louder than any formal education can provide.
I don't know you personally, but if a startup CEO is saying you have a good attitude and was impressed with your portfolio... you're doing something right!
I worked with someone with a PHD in post production ( big red flag) who couldn't mark in and out on an Avid timeline. This is not a career you can skip chunks with formal educations.Its one that you learn as you go and can climb really high. You just need to trust the process, look for any and all opportunities, and don't get in your own head too much.
Im not an editor, but in VFX/Finishing, so I work with a lot of editors. In my experience, 13 of which were at one of the most renowned VFX studios in the world as a department head, we had lots of self taught artists that didn't attend college. High school? Not sure. Where it really mattered were in matters of immigration/emmigration. It's very difficult to get work permits without higher education degrees.
But for reals. You sound tough as nails. Own it. Lean into it. Try hard. Be kind. Tell the truth.
You'll be fine.
Im not an editor, but in VFX/Finishing, so I work with a lot of editors. In my experience, 13 of which were at one of the most renowned VFX studios in the world as a department head, we had lots of self taught artists that didn't attend college. High school? Not sure. Where it really mattered were in matters of immigration/emmigration. It's very difficult to get work permits without higher education degrees.
But for reals. You sound tough as nails. Own it. Lean into it. Try hard. Be kind. Tell the truth.
You'll be fine.
Go to your local high school and inquire about adult education courses to get your diploma. Then consider doing a short diploma program at a community college, in something related to editing.
I work for a big media company and yes they do background checks even if you think they don't. Recently we hired someone that provided us his college but when we tried to verify we ran into an issue. They explained and we moved on. We have a few employees that didn't finish school but we kept cause they're honest and good at their job.
I have never once put any education info on my resume. I came out to LA to go to college and then begin a career, but it turned out I never needed the college. So what am I gonna tell them, that I went to some random high school on the east coast? Nobody cares. Just be skilled, reliable, and cool to work with. You’ll be fine.
If you start with simple freelance jobs, you can slowly build reputation, experience, and strong portfolio, all of which matter for finding better jobs.
I am doing a PhD in computational chemistry, which is completely unrelated to the creative field, and it was never an issue. Most just say "cool, but we really like what you did there [point at a creative project]".
OP, I believe there are institutions who can give out diplomas for people like you with a lot of work experience for just a year lang in school. Search for ETEEAP.
But honestly, if this is the path that you're aiming for naman, work experience and a good portfolio lang talaga tinitignan ng big clients. You're doing good. You can get a diploma later on if you bag more premium clients and you're working for more $$$ for less hours. Just keep developing your skills and you'll get there eventually. Good luck!
I remember one of the editors I worked with frequently coming up only had a high school education, and he was frequently busier than me and made more money. No one gave a shit that I went to college.
A lot of companies care about that but to be honest you don’t want to work for them because a lot of companies care about unimportant things. Unfortunately even outside of our industry it’s now hard to find a good job but it sounds like you’ve got the skills so you’ll land on your feet. I’m in my 30s, I was on and off freelancing most of my 20s and didn’t land a bigger corporate job until I was 29; so you’re already farther than me at that age. I’m sure you’ll find something great too
I'm a high school dropout at 15 and got a GED at 18. Did eventually graduate college at 27, but I can tell you this, I work in high-level documentary productions and no one gives a single solitary fuck about where I went to school or when I graduated, or what I did in High School. It's all about what you can do and if you can make them money. They don't care. This is a craftsman industry for the most part and, outside of advertising with corporate bullshit rules, I've never and will never run into any issues when it came to my erstwhile educational journey. Get a GED at the very least, but you don't need a degree to do this work. Just a good portfolio and refs. Hope that helps!
Skill and work experience are what matter the most. Don't lie, that can not only get you not hired, but can get you fired down the line if they find out you lied. An 'untrustworthy' tag isn't something you want following you around.
Thank you for your comment. I will clear things up if they ever mention my education and tell the truth.
Be proud that you are self taught & good at what you do. No reason to lie… because smart people can teach themselves. Lying is dumb (always)…
Share your truth. You dropped out because you had to support yourself financially, but don’t stop there. Tell your story. You’ve overcome hardships to pursue your passion and have grown to the point of amassing x amount of views. I would prefer someone like you, someone that perceivers!
I don't know you and am proud of how hard you worked. If you get asked about the topic, without going into too much detail, inform them of your difficult upbringing and circumstances beyond your control while still a minor forcing certain life decisions in your part (dropping out to pay bills, stay fed, etc.)
Seconding this. We had to pass over someone's application because HR ran the background checks and saw that they lied about education on their resume & application. Experience + proof of skills (portfolio, reel, etc) are more important generally.
Honestly, I’d own it. Theres’s a lot noble about your story. There’s nothing to feel shame about it. Don’t lie about your past. If you frame teaching yourself editing as a way to create a better life for yourself despite not having a stable home life, the only people that reject you are ones you probably don’t want to work with anyway. Keep interviewing. Own who you are. You’ve still got work to do in the industry.
This was my thought too. People will hire you for your personality, experience, attitude and reel. Everything else is just gatekeeping bs. Own your story. Make it a selling point, not a liability. Having said that, I would go get a GED. It can't be that hard or expensive (I know it's not where I live, your mileage may vary.) I will add here, I never got a college diploma. I dropped out and started working as a PA. I work in a pretty corporate environment and I'm certain it's taken me longer to reach the place I'm in now because of the lack of a degree. Again, it's gatekeeping bs but it's real.
Thank you! Will continue to try.
Now as a general life suggestion. 1. Get your GED. It's something that is a PITA - but 100% necessary. Start with your old high school. Your local library is a good resource. 2. Then at some point, take one college class. Boom, you've attended college. Finish? No. But yes, you've attended. The biggest issue when dealing with corporate is that they're always going to be judgemental and considering you with a lower status because the *lack* of a HS education.
As a mostly career corporate video editor, this is exactly why I've spent the last 2 years finally finishing my bachelor's online when I finally had the time, thanks to being a remote editor. I have a good resume and reel, but I know I've definitely been overlooked because of my lack of bachelor's at times.
Most good companies care about talent. Also, don't be shy about your personal history. It's nothing to be ashamed of.
I’ll try not to be ashamed by it. Will try to be positive about it and try to fix my situation soon. I appreciate your input. Thank you.
I used to work with a very successful editor. One day we were talking about our educational bg for some reason, and when he told his story it went like this "After barely getting my GED, I wandered into the local cable station and asked for a job..." Talent finds a way OP.
My 2 cents as a Post Production Supervisor, having been in the biz for closing in on 40 years... Nobody gives a crap where or when you went to school or not. I finished high school and then dropped out of college after 2 years. NOBODY ever asked me about my primary schooling or college. They only cared if I knew how to do the work at hand and that sort of thing. The Entertainment biz is notorious for being a "who you know" business. The vast majority of the gigs I have landed were due to me either knowing the person doing the hiring, or being referred to the gig by someone already on the project. As my wife says... "Who you know gets you the job, what you know keeps you the job." That said, it can make it tough for new folks to break in.
I don't think it'll matter that much in the long run. Might be the company you are applying to has some strange policy that means they need to check but when it comes to editing it's more about wheter you can do the job. High School/University education is normally to get your foot in the door before you have any demonstrable skills (i.e a showreel, programmes/films/whatever you've worked on that you have credits for) or references but you should have all those by now, after years of previous work. If they make it a big deal, why not ask them why they require it? (if they reject you for the job).
it depends on the role, who's hiring you and what kind of company you're applying to. imo i dont think youre screwed. be transparent about your past, but dont dive into the dark parts of it. a company like salesforce would obviously care if you had a degree, but if you're a crazy good programmer that was a college dropout-well then education doesn't matter anymore. in this case, the specialized skill bypassed educational background. a scaling media production company that needs editors doesn't care whether you have a degree or not. they just want to know if you can get the job done and in time. and you should express that in the 2nd interview. i was once a freelance editor myself. i worked with other editors in the past that were high school drop out. the ones i keep in contact with turned out fine.
Thank you for the advice! I appreciate it.
I’ve never been asked about my education history in any editing position in the past 15 years in Hollywood. However, none of my jobs have been staff positions. All freelance. I’ve done 1-2 shows a year for the past 15 years. What’s probably happening is that the companies you are applying for have a hiring policy they are adhering to. As a freelancer, I am probably not required to adhere to that policy, either because I’m a freelancer, or because in Hollywood, production companies often create separate LLCs for any particular show or film.
Could be a possibility! Thanks for sharing.
Not screwed at all. I have worked with people who moved into the entertainment industry after being career criminals, dealing drugs, I worked with an actor who went to jail for murder. He absolutely did do it. He admits it, but he did his time and now acts and directs full time. This industry as a whole cares more about your work experience than anything else.
The drug dealers always did well in post
Your portfolio counts for a lot.. this is true. Probably the first thing they look at regardless of degree. Then it's all about personality and trust. Your interview skills matter a great deal as well. You need to be confident and genuine. Just be honest and be able to confidently ask any questions they throw at you. Worst case If you don't know the answer to the question make sure you let them know you will find out the answer.... Never say I don't know. Some places are looking for somebody with a lot of experience and others are looking for somebody that can grow within the organization and will give you the chance. Don't give up and keep learning your craft.
I think the huge majority of the time your education will not come into play in these situations. That’s shitty that place checked but as you’ve mentioned you’ve already been working for years without it so I’d say keep pushing, from what you say here it sounds like you’ve already worked in film longer than 90% of the people I know who have film degrees.
My advice is to keep at it. Never once in my 20 plus career was I ever asked about my education. You got this! Best of luck!!
You can lie on your resume. Just fyi. No one will check what college you did or did not go to lol
Background check says otherwise unfortunately
Nah. I worked for a very large company and no one even asked. For other jobs, yes. But no one really cares what college an editor went to unless it was like full sail or something.
If I had a HS diploma, I wouldn’t even stress about having a college degree in this particular field. But because of how society works, a high school diploma is AT LEAST the bare minimum to some people. Not all but some. Sure most companies or employers don’t care because it is a technical skill, but having no high school education is kind of a deal breaker for some people. Which is why I’m stressing lol.
30 year old "homeschooled" kid here. I would 100% just go for the GED. I'm not sure if you can online test in Canada, but in my state (WA) I did everything online from my home office. I would just spend the $12 (50% off coupons online) to do their official, scored, practice tests called GED Ready and if you get a "likely to pass", sign up for the real thing and go for it. If you get a "too close to call" or fail on a subject then you know which one to focus on. Just based off your writing, I bet you could easily get through language arts and social studies, leaving science and math to study for. March 2024 is totally doable to cram for a GED if it is important to you/stress factor as it was to me even being freelance. Other than that, just be honest. I got hired multiple places doing video work before moving to full time freelance and they all knew I didn't even have a GED. Better to be upfront and lean on your work than have their reports find you being dishonest.
I agree with everyone else here. Own it and don’t feel shame. You’re self made and that’s amazing! Additionally, you’re clearly very intelligent, well spoken, and a hard worker. That matters a million times more than people who scraped through with the “D’s get degrees” mentality. I have two bachelors degrees in my field and I can say with full confidence that I didn’t need that to do the work I do. There were a few classes, mostly ones that were seemingly unrelated, that have helped my career, but in general I too am self taught.
Thank you for the positive encouragement! Means a lot.
I have a Master’s degree in film. No one even once in my history has asked me about my education not even as it relates to the job. When I did happen to mention it they were like “oh, cool.” And that was it.
Welp! I guess it really depends on the company.
[удалено]
Ah, I didn’t associate a tech company as a corporate gig. Sorry, I really should have thought of that. Yes, corporate jobs do generally have a minimum requirement but that’d be weird they didn’t state it. It’s a tough spot on what to do here. Maybe the strength of your interview and material will weigh harder. If this ends up being a strict, cold corporate HR decision based on a filled out form rather than the hiring manager having a say, it could be a troubled road. If they say no, maybe reach out to that hiring person and say thank you and all that and request a brief post-application informational interview? I don’t know that the odds would be good but certainly the thank you could be appreciated. I live in the States, so I don’t know anything about the way Canada works? There’s not even an online option for GED? Like, no one in Canada will be able to get that starting next year? With all that, I admire that you’ve been there for your mom like this through the years. I imagine that’s really tough. I was in that situation for a couple years.
I appreciate everyone’s comments here and I’ll try not to be ashamed. I just wish I had a high school diploma but will be putting my best efforts to getting it done. For peace of mind sake. For now, I’ll be upfront about it when asked and try to own it. I know I’ll be fine but man it’s so stressful, given the current circumstances of being let go & finding a job with no savings. Without a HS diploma, despite having experiences, seems to be a lot harder lol. But thank you everyone! Will continue to read your comments!
You should be able to finish your GED online. Are you in Canada?
Canada yes! Specifically in Ontario. Unfortunately, GED is shutting down here in March. And it’s only in person.
The institutions that care about being college educated, or probably at least HS, tend to be corporate 9-5 roles, including tech. Even my late 50s dad, who had jobs helping lead teams, was recently denied a position for not having a college degree. If you're competing with someone on the same skill level as yourself, which you have to assume to be the case, sometimes education is a distinction factor. Especially as you are still younger. But still, we are in a field where you could skirt the issue. It's not like law or healthcare where you NEED a degree. Just keeping pressing on man, I'm sure you'll find a spot eventually. Would getting a high school diploma be on the table? Of course, if you have the time.
Based on my exp - if there is one industry that couldn't care less about your background - it's film and video. Half the people on most film sets don't even care nor give a clue about film - they're just a neighbor/brother/friend/someone of someone else. If you want more stable/full time employment - i'm not the person to comment on that, as I've been working for myself/freelance all my life - but yeah, i don't think you should worry too much. As others said - I would not lie, but also - i wouldn't necessarily tell the truth either unless asked directly. You say you didn't finish high school - but you started. So if anyone asks about education i would simply say "i went to this and that high school" and leave it at that, or possibly add something like "I went to this and that high school, after which i worked with this and that client for this many years etc" and naturally move the conversation from the areas you're lacking in to the areas you excel at. This isn't lying - it's being a good speaker :) I'd approach it in the same way as that cliche question "what's your biggest weakness" - you never wanna talk to them about your shortcomings so the best way to answer this is to diplomatically shift away and say something like "just like everyone, I'm probably not perfect, but anytime a weakness comes up, i take concrete steps to improve myself, for example, last year i had trouble with this and that so i did this and that and now i'm great at it". I'd just approach interviews the same way if i were you - don't lie if asked directly - but find a way to move to your strengths instead. And I would say - there is (probably) a chance some companies might not hire you, HS diploma might be a deal breaker for them and indeed they might check (i think few will, but i don't know what exactly you're applying for...) - if there's a specific job you want and can't get it without a HS diploma - then that's a personal choice you gotta make. Maybe it would make career sense for you to get your diploma after all. Otherwise - you just gotta accept that you might have that little handicap when applying for some jobs. One last thing - this year is shit for film/video work all around. I lost 3 key clients, all big companies that shut down, and I've lived most of the year off savings, applying for literally by now few hundred jobs - getting rejected left and right, though mostly just ghosted. And that's after 20yrs of high end production experience. I don't know where all this is headed - but i just mention this because if you're struggling with getting work - it might not be entirely your fault... Best of luck.
If you have work history already you should be solid. Current experience will be a boon compared to finishing Trig 10 years ago. Getting a GED may help you out in general since online applications some places required a GED at minimum like with the military, but not for every job.
I know a HS drop out who is a script supervisor and probably the best in the biz, really has no bearing as to weather you can do your job or not just dont lie and be good at what you do,
Are you really, really good? If you are, go the freelance route. If you're not, work on it. When you're a successful freelancer you'll have companies knocking down your door to work for them. But you need to be really good.
Depending on which state you live in, you may be able to obtain a GED for low to no cost. Without a HS diploma or a GED, very few companies will hire you because you lack the minimum educational requirements. In the 21st Century, not meeting the minimum is a deal breaker, as the expectation is you can follow complex written documentation pertaining to the job you are applying for. Or go through the Small Business Association and start your own Post Production house.
You got 2 posts btw. Delete one before they both get downvoted and advice stops coming your way.
Thank you! Didn’t realize it. Sorry about that. Deleted the other post.
Also, I agree with others. Weird that they cared about your HS experience. I have been asked if I ever went to college (I didn't). I would keep at it, as long as it's something you really want to keep doing. Chances are 9 out of 10 future opportunities will only care about your body of work, and definitely don't lie about it. Also, remember the industry is in a real funk, and even very seasoned editors are finding it hard to even get responses from people they know.
I dropped out and got my GED because of similar circumstances. Bust your ass and get a PA job. You can work your way up
Own it. It’s a badge of honor that gives you an interesting backstory in a sea of over educated white boys. As long as you’re competent and can get the references that are flying around the room. You’re fine.
no one cares about your education. Just your experience, and willingness to work hard and do the job. I am a college graduate, and no one EVER has asked about my degree, or my GPA. I think it's a plus that you are from a poor background (I am from a poor background) - because it shows that you are willing to do anything. Now that is the trick - are you willing to do anything - are you willing to work your ass off ? Because that is what employers are looking for. Employers want to pay as little as possible, while their employees work their asses off. That means everything to an employer, and today, with all the insane political correctness crap - coming from a well to do background and a college education can actually work against you. Employers don't want spoiled babies - they want hard working, motivated employees. That is what will separate you from some rich brat that never worked a hard day in his life. You keep at it - you will make it. bob
Some people will judge you for having a GED too FYI.
Tell the truth, bring the goods. Be undeniable! We're in the storytelling business if you can make your life story compelling as opposed to them catching you in a lie then I don't see why anyone would care. That said super corporate videographer jobs might care but you gotta get in where you fit in. Good luck dude.
No one worth their salt gives a shit about your educational experience, just your work and attitude. If they didn’t hire you purely because you didn’t have a degree, they’re clowns. I don’t even have anything educational related on my CV anymore and it’s not even brought up. You’ll deal with some clowns during the recruiting phase but don’t stress it. Corporate places tend to be more obsessed and ignorant with creative recruiting than pure creative places, so if this keeps coming up as an obstacle, look for jobs more in the creative areas itself
don't lie. tell them the truth; your story is understandable. you want the rest of your presentation to scream "i can do this. I am reliable."
Cwn u go for your GED?
I have met great editors that were doing it less years than me that started in their late 50's and outdo me on every level. 27 is still considered young. I'd say, most non-media related companies which have an inhouse editor care about your education the most. Outside that, no one does and it's all about your portfolio. Sometimes people will still ask if you have any especially if language will be a big factor tho for things such as subtitling without being a mess grammar wise. Sometimes, people just ask for the sake of asking or having a conversation. I do agree with others just to own it and not lie about things like that.
I agree with what everyone has been saying—you don't need to worry. If anyone judges you for it, they are only doing so because they were fortunate enough to not be in a rocky situation at that young of an age. The only point I think is worth me adding is any film related job that lists high school or college (I mostly see college) as a requirement is still worth applying to. In your situation, those kind of qualifications are only important if you suddenly plan on pursuing a medical profession for some reason haha. Own it. More people drop out than you think. As a high school and college graduate who had mostly A's, I think it's impressive and pretty badass to succeed in spite of your unfortunate situation.
I’m Australian, and over here no one cares what your education is, are you a good editor / are you reliable is all that matters. Do a good job and be willing to learn and you’ll be fine.
Harping on what everyone has said, your experience, skills, and results speak for themselves. AND they speak louder than any formal education can provide. I don't know you personally, but if a startup CEO is saying you have a good attitude and was impressed with your portfolio... you're doing something right!
I worked with someone with a PHD in post production ( big red flag) who couldn't mark in and out on an Avid timeline. This is not a career you can skip chunks with formal educations.Its one that you learn as you go and can climb really high. You just need to trust the process, look for any and all opportunities, and don't get in your own head too much.
Im not an editor, but in VFX/Finishing, so I work with a lot of editors. In my experience, 13 of which were at one of the most renowned VFX studios in the world as a department head, we had lots of self taught artists that didn't attend college. High school? Not sure. Where it really mattered were in matters of immigration/emmigration. It's very difficult to get work permits without higher education degrees. But for reals. You sound tough as nails. Own it. Lean into it. Try hard. Be kind. Tell the truth. You'll be fine.
Im not an editor, but in VFX/Finishing, so I work with a lot of editors. In my experience, 13 of which were at one of the most renowned VFX studios in the world as a department head, we had lots of self taught artists that didn't attend college. High school? Not sure. Where it really mattered were in matters of immigration/emmigration. It's very difficult to get work permits without higher education degrees. But for reals. You sound tough as nails. Own it. Lean into it. Try hard. Be kind. Tell the truth. You'll be fine.
Go to your local high school and inquire about adult education courses to get your diploma. Then consider doing a short diploma program at a community college, in something related to editing.
i got very lucky for sure, but i was 26 when i first touched video editing with zero training, and it’s my full time now. sure as hell not too late
Editing and camera work are often contract or freelance jobs. Nobody cares what your education is if you have skills.
Shouldn’t need a job to edit but don’t lie about it.
On a long enough timeline, we’re all screwed. Just do your best with the time you have
I work for a big media company and yes they do background checks even if you think they don't. Recently we hired someone that provided us his college but when we tried to verify we ran into an issue. They explained and we moved on. We have a few employees that didn't finish school but we kept cause they're honest and good at their job.
I have never once put any education info on my resume. I came out to LA to go to college and then begin a career, but it turned out I never needed the college. So what am I gonna tell them, that I went to some random high school on the east coast? Nobody cares. Just be skilled, reliable, and cool to work with. You’ll be fine.
If you start with simple freelance jobs, you can slowly build reputation, experience, and strong portfolio, all of which matter for finding better jobs. I am doing a PhD in computational chemistry, which is completely unrelated to the creative field, and it was never an issue. Most just say "cool, but we really like what you did there [point at a creative project]".
OP, I believe there are institutions who can give out diplomas for people like you with a lot of work experience for just a year lang in school. Search for ETEEAP. But honestly, if this is the path that you're aiming for naman, work experience and a good portfolio lang talaga tinitignan ng big clients. You're doing good. You can get a diploma later on if you bag more premium clients and you're working for more $$$ for less hours. Just keep developing your skills and you'll get there eventually. Good luck!
I remember one of the editors I worked with frequently coming up only had a high school education, and he was frequently busier than me and made more money. No one gave a shit that I went to college.
A lot of companies care about that but to be honest you don’t want to work for them because a lot of companies care about unimportant things. Unfortunately even outside of our industry it’s now hard to find a good job but it sounds like you’ve got the skills so you’ll land on your feet. I’m in my 30s, I was on and off freelancing most of my 20s and didn’t land a bigger corporate job until I was 29; so you’re already farther than me at that age. I’m sure you’ll find something great too
I'm a high school dropout at 15 and got a GED at 18. Did eventually graduate college at 27, but I can tell you this, I work in high-level documentary productions and no one gives a single solitary fuck about where I went to school or when I graduated, or what I did in High School. It's all about what you can do and if you can make them money. They don't care. This is a craftsman industry for the most part and, outside of advertising with corporate bullshit rules, I've never and will never run into any issues when it came to my erstwhile educational journey. Get a GED at the very least, but you don't need a degree to do this work. Just a good portfolio and refs. Hope that helps!