There are two calling cards aspiring writers require in their portfolio if they are to be successful in finding entry into the television industry: at least one spec episode and an original pilot. Without these samples, a writer can neither find representation or otherwise advance.

A strong original television pilot is of particular importance to a TV writer’s portfolio. Many producers now prefer this writing sample over the more traditional spec episodes. Even high-profile writing competitions that are open to teleplays, such as Trackingb.com, Scriptapalooza, and our very own Austin Film Festival, now give writers the opportunity to submit original pilots. Having a well-polished original pilot can showcase a writer's unique voice and thereby gain the attention of producers who can launch a career.

Austin Community College currently offers a course on how to write a TV spec script, but does not have a class to guide students through the steps of creating an original pilot. We, the undersigned, request that Roy Garza, with whom we previously have taken a screenwriting course, be chosen to instruct a course that focuses on the development and writing of original television pilots, thereby preparing ACC students to compete successfully within the television writing industry.

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