Screenwriter Sterling Anderson shares career wisdom with cinematic arts students

Accomplished screenwriter Sterling Anderson visited the Liberty University Cinematic Arts, Zaki Gordon Center Feb. 2-3, sharing tips on writing and working in the television and film industry.

Anderson’s credits include network television shows such as “The Unit” (CBS) and feature films including “The Gabby Douglas Story,” which won a Movieguide Faith and Freedom Award and a Christopher Award (given to works which “affirm the highest values of the human spirit”). He has written two books on writing and the novel “Five Seconds to Go,” soon to be a feature film, and frequently lectures and participates in screenwriting panels.

“I love what I do,” Anderson told a class of seniors on Wednesday. “I love to help other people to get good at it as well.”

In an interview, Anderson said that the atmosphere at Liberty is very welcoming and open to hear what he has to say.

“There’s just a thirst for knowledge,” he said. “Liberty students don’t have an attitude; they are generous in spirit. At some film schools, students walk in and they act like they know everything. The kids here as a whole have brighter faces and are more optimistic. I don’t see attitude. I don’t see negativity.”

He said that this reflects well on Liberty’s academic and faith culture.

Anderson advised students on not only how to sharpen their writing skills but also what to expect when meeting with producers. He often engaged students as he walked them through an aspect of script development or a scenario they might face in the writer’s room, then dedicated a significant portion of his time fielding and answering student questions.

“It was really nice to hear that experience that he has, a view from the inside,” said senior Thomas Antonucci. “It is an incredible opportunity. It is a great benefit to us as students that he is willing to take the time to share that knowledge that he’s acquired over the years. … Hearing someone who is doing it and giving us tips on what we should do to make ourselves seen in that world, it just gives you the idea that ‘I can do this.’”

Antonucci is also very appreciative of all the opportunities the cinematic arts program has provided for practical training.

“Our professors, they have had the experience as well, but it is always nice to get those fresh perspectives as they come in,” he said of Anderson’s visit. After being “thrown into the fire” for his two years in Liberty’s immersive cinematic arts program — where students get hands-on experience in every aspect of filmmaking — Antonucci said that he and his classmates are able to truly appreciate the wisdom offered by a guest like Anderson.

“With what we have gained in our hands-on education, we can really connect with what he is saying.”

Stephan Schultze, executive director of the cinematic arts program, said that bringing in industry professionals like Anderson helps reinforce what the students are learning every day in the program.

On one hand, Schultze explained, the students are immersed in as many aspects of filmmaking as possible during their education. On the other, industry professionals come in and present their experiences and talk about how to succeed. He said that sometimes hearing from a working professional is what it takes for students to understand certain concepts. Sometimes it takes a voice from outside Liberty’s walls.

“Bringing these industry professionals in allows that voice to start resonating in the students, ears before they get out,” Schultze said. “That will help separate them from the rest of the people who are just getting off the bus to work in the industry. They are going to be years ahead in their careers.”

This was Anderson’s second visit to Liberty. He visited when the program was in its first year (2012) and commented that the growth since then has been impressive.

“The cinematic arts center is amazing. I want to stay here and do a film,” Anderson said. “A lot of schools don’t have the equipment that Liberty does. It is a tremendous advantage to be on the forefront in terms of equipment.”