Summer Job Diaries: Working Behind the Scenes at Film Studio A24

Cheyenne Slowensky ’28 is playing a central role in drafting contracts for writers, directors, actors, and more in her internship at powerhouse film studio A24. Learning from industry pros is enhancing her knowledge base in entertainment law and providing real-world experience in solving complex issues.

How did you land your summer job? 

I found this job through networking. I had a great conversation with an associate at an entertainment firm that had already hired their summer interns, so she asked me where else I had applied. I told her A24, and she said she knew someone on the legal team there. I connected with her, and she referred me to the people running the internship program, so I cold emailed them and was later asked to interview.

What is the most interesting part of your job? 

The most interesting part of my job is sitting in on all the internal film and TV meetings. There is so much you can learn about the industry just by listening to those who are the best at what they do discussing how they handle complex issues and their negotiation strategies.

What has been your most challenging assignment thus far? 

My most challenging assignment thus far has been contract drafting for a number of different agreements. I have worked on option purchase agreements, writer agreements, director agreements, and producer agreements, as well as drafted above-the-line summaries for both film and TV projects in development.

What new legal skill have you acquired during your summer job? 

Contract drafting! The ability to read and decipher contracts as well as the ability to tailor the boilerplate terms to fit the unique conditions of each project is incredibly valuable not only as a lawyer, but also as a human who encounters these kinds of documents every day.

What legal knowledge have you been able to display? 

I have been able to display my attention to detail in contract drafting and asking thoughtful questions, as well as my familiarity with common film and TV contracts and their terms.

How has Loyola helped you map your career path? 

Loyola’s emphasis on outreach and connecting with lawyers doing the work you hope to do (or simply want to learn about) is immensely valuable, especially in the entertainment industry.