Everyone’s heard the question: “What are you going to do after college?” For some, the answer is clear-cut. For others, like UVA alumnus Jack, the path took shape through exploration, unexpected opportunities, and a little bit of osmosis.

Absorbing Inspiration at UVA

Looking back on his time at UVA, Jack describes it as a period of soaking up knowledge from all directions. At his father’s urging, he embraced the full spectrum of a Liberal Arts education, sampling everything UVA had to offer. Though he was passionate about film, he never considered it a serious career option—at least, not at first. If a Media Studies program had existed in the 1980s, he probably would have majored in it. Instead, he gravitated toward film criticism courses in the English Department while ultimately choosing to major in History, drawn to sweeping narratives and epic moments in time.

From Film Fan to Film Festival

While courses helped shape his perspective, Jack’s real turning point came outside the classroom. Just after graduating, he got involved with the Virginia Film Festival, which had launched in 1988. At first, he was just a volunteer, hoping to absorb as much as possible by being around filmmakers. That volunteer role quickly turned into something more when he was hired as Festival Operations Coordinator. His job? Everything from securing venues and film prints to managing ticket sales and volunteer teams. It was a crash course in logistics, event planning, and the behind-the-scenes work that makes film production possible.

Through the festival, Jack built connections with fellow UVA alumni who had already made names for themselves in the industry. One of them was producer Mark Johnson, known for Rain Man and Breaking Bad. Johnson saw Jack’s talent for organization and problem-solving and encouraged him to pursue a career as an Assistant Director (AD)—a role that, much like stage management in theater, is all about keeping productions running smoothly. Taking that advice, Jack applied (twice) to the Directors Guild of America’s (DGA) Assistant Director Training Program. When he got in, his Hollywood journey officially began.

Breaking into the Film Industry

The DGA AD Training Program is a highly competitive apprenticeship, accepting only about 20 people a year. As a trainee, Jack committed to 400 days of on-set experience, learning from accomplished AD teams while earning little more than minimum wage. But the experience was invaluable. His first feature film as a trainee? Batman & Robin. Standing in the Bat Cave on day one? A pivotal moment.

That hands-on training launched Jack into a career running film sets—a role that plays to his strengths in coordination, communication, and leadership. From an uncertain start at UVA to the fast-paced world of Hollywood productions, his journey proves that careers don’t always follow a straight line. Sometimes, they take shape through experience, mentorship, and a willingness to say “yes” to unexpected opportunities.

Advice for UVA Students Looking to Break into Film

For students hoping to work in film or other creative industries, Jack’s advice is simple:

• Take advantage of what’s around you. The Media Studies Department, the Virginia Film Festival, and UVA’s alumni network are all incredible resources.
• Get involved. Volunteer, intern, and put yourself in spaces where professionals gather.
• Use UVA’s Career Center. Whether it’s through networking events, mentorship programs, or one-on-one counseling, there’s plenty of guidance available.
• Be on time. Actually, be early. In Hollywood, “If you’re on time, you’re late.”

Jack’s story is proof that careers don’t always start with a perfect plan. Sometimes, they begin with curiosity, a willingness to learn, and the right connections. The key? Just start.

Jack Steinberg is an alumnus who is available to connect with on the Virginia Alumni Mentoring platform. We encourage you to connect with him and network with other mentors!