Assignment 1: Tony Kowalski

Joel Kaplan
CEO/PM
Kaplan Multimedia Inc.
Hollywood, FL

1. Can you briefly define your job to me?

I own and manage a small company which produces media for both television and independent films which have gone on to win several awards. I have been working out of a small studio since 1980 producing both sound and video. Alot of times I work long hour days and sometimes even nights and weekends.

2. How did you get started in the business?

I started as an aspiring musician then decided to free lance as a sound tech. Next I worked as a grip for a few years until I eventually worked my way up to camera assistant. I learned a little here and there with both sound and video mostly through hands on experience. I kept working until I had saved up enough money to open my own business.

3. How do you tell someone over you (your boss) that you can't complete an assigned task?

Just to do it. Put all your effort and power to completing the task. No excuses you have to find a way to get the job done. Do it and do it right; no excuses. Truthfully not completing an assignment is not even an option.

4. Do you have any advice for a media student who is just starting out?

As a media student you have a lot of opportunities through internships to get your foot in the door. Once your foot is in the door, do anything and take notes. You are not going to start out with what you want to do but work hard. While your are working hard be enthusiastic and show yourself. Don't be afraid to talk to people about what you really want to do. Be persistent in reaching your goal and accomplishing what you want to do. Make phone calls to increase and strengthen contacts as well as looking for job opportunities. I hire the people that frequently call me to keep contact. The more working experience you have the more you can grow.