Where are you currently working?
Disney/20th Television.
Current project?
“The Chi” on Showtime.
Describe your job.
As an assistant editor for scripted television, I primarily use Avid Media Composer editing software. I’m responsible for organizing and labeling footage and elements on the project to ensure the editor’s workflow runs smoothly. Once the set is assembled, I will assist with sound design and temporary musical scoring.
Sometimes I create ad hoc compositions for visual effects shots that help tell the story. For shows that are more visual effects, if there is a dedicated visual effects editor or assistant, I will work closely with them to make sure they have all the materials they need to create temporary visual effects and manage the effects on the project.
While my role focuses on supporting projects and creating output for review, I can also make creative contributions by editing scenes and processing director or producer notes. Once the edit is locked, I will work on handing the project over to the online, visual effects, sound and music teams to begin mastering the show. During this phase, I help the post-production team complete each episode. Overall, my job is to help support editors and streamline the editing process.
How did you first become interested in this industry?
To be honest, it happened by accident. Editing has not always been an explicit passion for me. We don’t have a formal editing course in college, but there is a summer course on Final Cut Pro. I chose this major because I want to work in the film industry, although I haven’t decided on a specific department yet. I took a Media Arts and Technology course which focused on film pre-production and production. When they offered a post-production course, I decided to give it a try and instantly fell in love with editing. It was amazing to see my classmates editing the same footage in different ways; it emphasized the unique creative possibilities in editing. I left class feeling inspired and eager to do more. I knew then that I wanted to be an editor.
Who gave you your first break?
During my first year at EditFest, I met Assistant Editor Sarah E. Williams and she mentioned that her show was looking for more Assistant Editors. She introduced me to Frank Salinas, the show’s executive producer with years of post-production experience, who hired me to work on NBC’s first unscripted TV show, STRONG. This is a fitness competition show hosted by former American volleyball champion Gabrielle Reese.
What was your first union job?
Hire my improv! A few weeks into production, the show became union–so it became my first union job! Anyone who works at a company that joins a union immediately becomes a union member. Because I was a “grandfather,” my initiation fee was waived and I could bypass some of the qualifications normally required to join. To join the Industry Experience Register and Editors Guild, you will need 100 days of non-union work experience and proof of payment. My work experience prior to this union employment does not meet the requirements of the Local 700 Agreement or the Video Supplement Agreement, so I do not have qualifying work days. But because I was hired through this union job, I can submit my first 100 days of work on the show to complete my membership.
What credit or course are you most proud of?
I’m very proud of the first season of David Makes a Man. I had an incredible time working on this project and the team was great. The writing, directing and editing were all executed brilliantly. This is a coming-of-age drama about David, an extremely gifted student who struggles to balance his studies while facing the harsh realities of family life and a poor neighborhood. This is unique to me because stories about middle schoolers are usually presented in a more light-hearted way. “David Made a Man” is dramatized and stylized in a more artistic way that you don’t see in many teenage coming-of-age stories. I am moved by this project and I am grateful to be a part of it.
What is the biggest challenge in your job (or on a specific project)?
My biggest challenge is reading the room when working with producers. I tend to be conservative in team settings, especially in person (as opposed to Zoom). Sometimes I want to contribute but feel embarrassed to say it. I learned that knowing how to read a room was key, especially knowing when to speak at the right moment in a way that best supported my editor.
What’s the happiest thing about your job?
Work at “Abbott Elementary School”. This was my first time working on a Warner Bros. set and I loved being so close to our set. The penultimate episode of season three is set at Philadelphia’s historic Smith Memorial Fairgrounds, one of the original fairgrounds in the United States. The production team recreated the iconic 44-foot wooden slide, which is approximately 12 feet wide and designed for multiple children to slide down at the same time. After filming ended, the cast and crew were invited to try it out. I went down the slide three or four times. It was so awesome and made me feel like a kid again!
Work-wise, what do you hope to be doing in five years?
In five years, I hope to have booked a full-time editor position.
What are your outdoor activities, hobbies and passions?
I love getting creative and getting crafty. One of my favorite creative outlets is making stationery products – notebooks, notepads. I’m also a foodie and love to travel, so when I’m not working I’m looking for new restaurants or my next travel destination.
Favorite movie? Why?
My favorite movies tend to change depending on my mood and what I’m going through, but I always love a good coming-of-age story. My current favorites are “Half” and “Didi”. These two films are well made and represent first generation Asian American families very well. As a first generation Asian American, I didn’t see much of this growing up. In “Didi,” In one moment, Chris’ mom explains why she chose to move to the United States for her children despite the challenges she faced. It was similar to a conversation I had with my mom, so seeing something so personal come to life on screen was deeply moving.
Favorite TV show? Why?
I love sci-fi/dystopian shows like Stranger Things, Transcript, Black Mirror, and The Handmaid’s Tale. I love shows that explore different worlds and alternate realities. I also like to watch Korean dramas, such as “Startup” and “Itaewon Class”. What I like about Korean dramas is the storytelling. They can make you feel every emotion in a scene.
Do you have any industry mentors?
I was lucky to have many mentors. Editors Jordan Goldman, ACE, Sarah Zeitlin, Susan Vaill, ACE, and Scott Powell, ACE have provided guidance throughout my career. They have been my biggest supporters and I am honored to share co-editing credit with them. They taught me Avid tips and tricks, how to be a successful editor, and how to craft the most powerful scenes with the best performances. I know I can always rely on their advice. Every editor I’ve had the pleasure to work with has shared valuable lessons, and I strive to incorporate this knowledge into my work every day.
What advice would you give to someone interested in doing your job?
First, learn to predict what will happen next in your workday or schedule. Being proactive will keep you on top of your game and help you stay organized while assisting editors. Secondly (and perhaps most importantly), network as much as possible. Our industry is filled with talented associate editors and editors who are willing to help support and guide your career. Finally, if you want to be an editor, edit as much as you can. Practical experience is always the best way to learn.
Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to rely on your guild for help or assistance?
Fortunately, I haven’t had to rely on the guild for help yet, but I know that if I need help, it’s just a phone call and/or email away.
Is there anything you would like to say to guild members?
I’m proud to be a member of the Guild. As I mentioned, there are a lot of talented people here and a lot of people willing to lend their support and pay the price. When you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out. Keep up the hard work and you will get it!
— Compiled by David Bruskin.
