Author: TWK Admin

Breaking Into the Entertainment Industry Isn’t as Impossible as Your Parents Think—Here’s How to Do It

A career in the entertainment industry is something that a lot of young people imagine for themselves. If you are one of these young people, it is likely that at some point you have been told by your parents or another adult to think of something more realistic. The truth is, finding an entry point into the entertainment industry is not as difficult as most parents believe.

It’s All About Who You Know

Once you have decided a career in the entertainment industry is for you, it is time to develop and nurture every contact that you can find. You can begin by making a list that includes all the people with whom you are familiar that may be able to help you. Ask your family and friends if they know names you can add to your list. You should remember that the most powerful people in the industry are not particularly well-connected to people looking for entry-level talent and will likely not be much help to you. A better course of action is to seek out people who are in most cases a little older than you are who currently work entry-level positions. Another thing to master as you search for your entry into the entertainment industry is to be persistent but not pushy.

Get the Skills to Pay the Bills

Like any other industry, you will have a better chance of success if you take the time to further your education and seek out proper training. You should choose an educational path that will provide you the skills you need to succeed in the entertainment industry. If you desire to spend your time in front of the camera, you may be interested in educational paths like drama or theater arts. There are also limitless educational choices that will prepare you for a career in entertainment in other capacities including entertainment design and digital production.

Learn the Industry

Your conversations with the people on your list of contacts as well as your search for a place in the entertainment industry will go much smoother if you first perform a little homework on your own. You should know whether you want to work in television, radio, or film and what entry-level opportunities each of these mediums present. You should also become familiar with the major companies in the industry and know who is responsible for running each of these companies.

Whether your dream is to run a studio, produce a series for primetime television, or deliver a dramatic performance that brings audiences to tears, the entertainment industry is an exciting career path that provides hundreds of options to you. It is also much easier to work your way into one of these positions than most people realize.

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Big Social Issues Facing Gen Z and Beyond

Every age group faces unique stressors and challenges, but few have ever had to face the many burdens as Generation Z. On one hand, they have more opportunities and access than almost any other generation in world history. On the other, they face unique challenges.

Mental Health

One in five Americans have some sort of mental illness, but those numbers are even higher among younger people, like those in Generation Z. Indeed, mental illness rates are getting worse across the board, but that trend is sharpest among Generation Z. There are many reasons for this, including a world that is filled with conflict, increased stress from academics and increased social media use. However, there is good news as well, as younger generations tend to feel less stigma when it comes to discussing and seeking mental health. Thankfully, while they face many mental health problems, they are also much more willing to face these problems head-on.

Climate Change

As the youngest generation that is currently alive, Generation Z will likely have to deal with climate change challenges more than any other generation. They are very aware of this fact and tend to support policies that will help lessen how mankind is affecting the issue. For example, renewable sources of energy bring a lot of benefits, and they are gaining more support politically. Generation Z tends to be more supportive of renewable energy use and is more willing to pay for its use themselves.

A Changing Job Market

There’s no question about it: The future of work is changing. More jobs are becoming automated, and this is causing dramatic effects when it comes to career and educational choices. Jobs that require critical thinking, entrepreneurship, or executive function are relatively safe, but many other jobs are on the chopping block as computers become savvier. This means that members of Generation Z not only have to find careers that fit their vocational desires, but they must also pick careers that are unlikely to be automated. This, of course, adds a high degree of stress to an already-complicated decision.

The issues that face Generation Z are simultaneously deeply interpersonal and existential, and it’s no wonder that this generation is more stressed than any before it. Hopefully, all of us will learn how to better support this age cohort and help them become functional members of society.

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3 Signs of Depression Every Teen Should Be Aware Of

Being a teenager in today’s world isn’t easy. There is so much to keep up with when it comes to school, working a part-time job, dealing with your family, making friends, and maintaining other relationships. It’s important that teens have the right support at home in order to prevent things like depression. However, some teens are just more prone to developing depression during their younger years. There are some ways that you can identify depression in either yourself of your friends.

Lack of Appetite

Your average teen will eat a lot over the course of a day. After all, their bodies are growing and they’re developing more physically. Most teens are very active in sports and other activities, which will keep their appetite going strong. If you notice that your teen is eating less or has less interest in food, this could be a sign that they are feeling depressed. It’s important to keep an eye on eating habits. Losing weight or showing a lack of interest in food can also be signs of an eating disorder.

Change in Attitude

A lot of teenagers will have an attitude with their parents. This is just part of dealing with youth in the household. However, there are certain issues with attitude that can indicate there is a bigger problem going on. Teens often deal with depression, substance abuse, aggression, and suicidal behaviors. This can show in attitude by expressing a lot of angry outbursts, becoming violent against others or themselves, threatening abuse, crying with no known cause or other serious issues. These can indicate that it is important to seek help.

Social Withdrawal

If a teen is normally very active with school, sports and friends, you can spot depression if they start to withdraw from these things. If a child no longer wants to get up and do anything, they could be dealing with some scary emotions. You should also watch out for a change in interests, not caring about the effects of their actions, and reduced emotional expression or interaction.

If you notice that a teen may be dealing with depression, it’s a good idea to contact a mental health professional for assistance. You can touch base with a counselor or doctor to find out some of the best resources in your area. Let the teen know that you’re there for them. They may not feel like talking right now, but it’s important that they know they can come find you at any time for help.

How to Make Your Own Health Appointments as a Teen

Becoming a teenager means taking on new challenges and responsibilities as you grow into adulthood. Some of these responsibilities can be fun, but many involve day-to-day activities such as organizing your own calendar and setting your own appointments. It is common for teens to act more independently, which includes scheduling important visits to the doctor and the dentist. Here are a few important things to remember about setting your own appointments and some tips for how to make the process smoother.

Know Your Information

According to CareCloud, medical providers are required by law to keep immaculate medical records. That means that when you schedule an appointment, you’ll likely be asked a series of questions so that the administrative staff can verify your identity and record your patient information in their database.

Every time you schedule a medical visit, there are a few things you’ll almost certainly be asked. The office personnel will request your full name and date of birth. They’ll then ask you the reason for your visit. If you are going to a medical provider for the first time, there is quite a bit of information you should have ready when you arrive. Be able to list all medications you take, surgeries you’ve had done, and any allergies you might have. Your parents or previous medical providers should have that information for you, so don’t hesitate to ask.

How Often?

To get the most health benefits from dentist visits, according to Murfreesboro Family Dentistry, it’s best to schedule a checkup every six months. As a friendly way to reach out and encourage regular visits, conscientious practices remind all their patients in advance when the six-month mark is approaching. Making sure you get a regular checkup every six months will keep your dental health intact and allow your dentist to identify any potential issues. This ensures that problems with your teeth or gums can be corrected before they become worse.

Privacy Laws

Always remember that whatever information you share with your healthcare providers is safe and protected by law. Except in extreme situations where your life is at risk, your doctor will not divulge anything you discuss unless you have given specific permission to do so. Don’t hide important information from them about your health and lifestyle.

Setting your own appointments as a teen is a great way to increase your responsibility and demonstrate your independence. It’s one more step toward complete self-reliance. Just make sure that you prepare yourself beforehand with the information listed above so that the process can go as smoothly as possible.

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Signs You’re Ready for a Pet — And How to Convince Your Parents

Convincing your parents to get you a pet can be hard. They might say that you are too young or otherwise aren’t ready. First of all, it’s important to understand how your parents might feel. Cats, dogs, birds, rodents, and even fish and reptiles cost money to take care of; for parents, it can get expensive to take care of a pet. There is also a lot of time and energy that goes into caring for an animal. You have to feed them, play with them, groom them and much more. If you are dreaming of getting a puppy, kitten or another type of pet, here are some ways you can show your parents that you’re ready for the responsibility.

Choose Which Type of Pet You Want

Look up different types of pets to find out which breeds or species are best for new owners, families, and kids. Every breed is different. For example, many smaller dogs, such as Boston terriers, may have health issues that you will have to take into account. You might have a sibling or parent who is allergic to cats and dogs. If this is the case, you will need to look up pets that don’t cause allergies, such as fish and reptiles. Show your parents that you are serious about finding an animal that’s a good match not just for you, but for the entire family.

Research Pet Care

The internet is a great resource for researching pet care — use it! Read all about taking care of the type of pet you would like to get. Would you like to adopt a dog or cat? Read about adoption and find local animal shelters in your area. Or are you interested in something more unusual, like a bird or lizard? Keep in mind that exotic pets have special needs, so you’ll need to do extra research in order to care for them properly. Keep in mind as your research that not all care guides are trustworthy, so read from multiple sources and only read from reputable websites.

Be Consistent With Chores

Because pets are such a big responsibility, you have to show your parents that you can take care of things on your own, just like how you’ll need to take care of your pet every day. Make sure you take out the trash, do the dishes, make your bed, do your homework and clean up without being asked. Get off the phone, TV or computer before bedtime. Be polite, and try not to argue with your siblings. When your parents see how good you are at home, they’ll see how responsible you are and will have an easier time trusting that you’ll take care of a pet.

Make a Routine

Write down a list of all the things you would have to do every day if your parents got you a pet. If you want to get a dog, then you’ll have to feed them twice a day, give them fresh water, take them for a walk, play with them and clean up their mess outside when they go to the bathroom. Cat owners have to clean out the litter box and give their cats fresh food and water every day, too. Once you have a list of pet responsibilities, make a schedule that includes waking up, going to school, doing homework and caring for your animal. Then, show your parents. You can talk about taking care of the pet together, but first, you should show them that you understand how much time and effort it takes to keep a pet happy and healthy.

Be Patient

It may take a long time to show your parents that you’re old enough or ready for a pet. Don’t get too discouraged if you ask them and they say no. Keep researching animals, and ask your parents if they would be willing to compromise on a different pet.

Even if your parents don’t want to get you a pet right away, do your chores, and stay focused on your goal. Find ways you can help shelter animals, too! Even though you have to be 18 or older to volunteer at an animal shelter, there are still lots of ways kids can help pets that are in need of a home. When you are patient and show that you respect your parents’ wishes, they may realize that you really are ready to care for your own furry friend.

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Want to Be an Actor? Keep These Tips in Mind on Your Way to Stardom

Becoming an actor as a teen can be fun and rewarding as well as challenging. Putting yourself out there in front of a crowd or a camera can be a thrill. Working your way towards an acting career at such an early start can pave a bright future ahead of you. With that being said, there are plenty of things to learn and keep in mind on your journey to achieving a successful career in acting. Below are some helpful tips to keep in mind if you are interested in becoming an actor.

Get Experience

Getting experience in acting is very important. Whether it is a school play, community theater role, web series, et cetera, view the opportunity as a good way to build your experience. Not only are you learning how to act by putting it into practice, but you’re also learning the ins and outs of the logistics of an acting career. For instance, you’ll gain invaluable experience during auditions, like how to present yourself and memorize your lines and deliver them to a casting director, director and/or producer. You’ll learn how to answer a callback (a second audition or a meeting) to show the casting team what else you have in store. As an actor, one of the key things to always have handy is an updated headshot. It’s a good idea to have an updated headshot when preparing for an audition.

Get an Agent

Obtaining representation for theatrical, film and television bookings is an important next step. Talent agents are usually out and about, scouting quite regularly for up-and-coming stars, and there are many agents who specialize in working with teen actors. Sometimes, agents will appear at acting classes or a local play, or they may see you in something on social media and reach out. The one thing to be wary of with agents is scam artists. Networking and building a Rolodex of contacts is important, but there are some people who present themselves as agents to child actors but seek a fee upfront. Never sign with these folks, and build your network of contacts through people you know and trust. Ask the members in your community if the person who approached you is someone with whom they are familiar. You should always get your parents involved in these situations.

Rejection Is Part of the Job

Actors get rejected all the time for reasons that go beyond who they are. When you don’t get an audition, or if the casting director doesn’t seem interested in you based on your looks, don’t let it define you. That’s just how the business works. Rejection is not about who or what you are. The casting director is simply looking for a different take for the role. If you find that rejection is hurting you, tell your parents immediately. Do not let rejection cause you emotional or mental harm and don’t ignore it either. Find ways to heal and learn from it. Hearing “no” on the job will happen, but you will also hear a “yes” very soon. Remember that.

Being an actor is tough but also fun! Keep in mind that you do this because you love it and enjoy the process. There’s no point if it isn’t enjoyable. Although it can be tough, you can increase your chances of success by keeping a nice, updated headshot handy; finding an agent; and developing a tough skin against rejection.

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Why Did the Smartwatch Fad Fizzle?

Smartwatches were, at one point, one of the most desirable gadgets on the market. Who wouldn’t want to recreate their own Star Trek episodes with a device that communicated, managed other tech, and more, right from your wrist? The smartwatch was certainly a hit at first, with millions sold within their first weeks on the shelves. However, as quickly as they came into style, smartwatches faded into obscurity. Here are some reasons why smartwatches’ popularity has faded away.

Limited Functionality

One of the leading features of a smartwatch was that it allowed you to answer phone calls and see who is messaging you. Although these features were certainly beneficial, they were not superior to what an actual phone offered. Many times, the smartwatch had to be connected and in close proximity to your mobile. If this makes you wonder what the point of a smartwatch is, then you’re not alone. Consumers quickly realized this as well and simply went back to using their phones to call and text their family and friends. In addition, app companies were simply not putting out enough content for smartwatches, which led to the limited functionality of the watch.

The Watches Weren’t Great

When it came to being a part of the “Next Big Thing,” everyone wanted a piece of the pie. Apple, along with other companies, quickly raced to see who could produce the best smartwatch at the lowest production cost. This, however, was not a good thing for the consumer as rushed designs and low-quality materials were the results. There was even a lawsuit over their defects that hurt their image. Many of the fitness features, such as the heart-monitoring app, seemed to be simply remade from existing apps and technologies. In some cases, app companies, as well as some doctors, sued Apple and accused the company of taking credit for their work.

Too Expensive

In hopes of keeping this brand alive, many companies refused to lower their prices. Even with all the negative feedback from customers as well as the limited functionality of the watches, they continued to cost a lot. So, what happens when you have a product that nobody wants and nobody can afford? It leads to a decline in sales as well as investments.

The smartwatch was certainly one of the most anticipated gadgets to come out on the market. Everyone wanted one, and they were one of the most popular gifts. However, as time went by, it quickly became apparent that the technology didn’t quite live up to the dreams of users, leaving the smartwatch to fall by the wayside.

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The Anxious Teenager’s Guide to Meditation

Meditating is something anyone can do, and those who suffer from anxiety can benefit from the practice. It’s important to know a few basics before you start. Here are some simple ways for an anxious person to succeed at meditation.

Use an App

There are apps on the market that are designed to help you if you struggle from anxiety. Many are free and let you choose what you want to focus on during your meditation. These apps may have music, chants or simply words to verbally guide you through meditating. If you are nervous about getting started, an app makes a great helper. The voices on the app often remind you not to worry if your thoughts stray. They teach you how to come back to the rhythm of your breath and relax your entire being.

Use Grounding Techniques

An important part of meditation is using grounding techniques. Grounding techniques tether you to the now and allow you to stay focused while meditating. They also offer a simple way back if you start to stray into anxious thoughts. Focusing on the breath is an easy, effective grounding technique. You can count your breaths as you inhale and exhale. When your thoughts roam, you simply come back to counting the breaths you’re taking. You can also use visualizations to ground you. Some people imagine their bodies as trees with roots fully connected to the earth but branches reaching for the sky. This gives you a visual image to keep you in the moment.

Eliminate Distractions

You can meditate anywhere, but those who struggle with anxiety would do well to eliminate distractions before starting. This means finding a place that is quiet and comfortable and putting phones on silent so they won’t interrupt the process. Trying to meditate in a room full of people who are talking or somewhere else that is chaotic can make it even harder to focus on your body and your breath. If you are meditating at home, make sure you have a place in your dwelling that is tidy, comfortable and fairly isolated from noise. It’s also smart to add comfort to your mediation area so you’re not distracted. Place a pillow on the floor to sit on when you meditate. Make sure clutter is kept to a minimum so it won’t beckon you to distraction while you’re meditating.

Anxiety can be a frustrating condition to deal with, but thankfully there are things like meditation that can help make it a little bit easier. Anyone can meditate, and the benefits for people with anxiety are proven. Use these simple tips to get started.

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Lotions, Potions, and Pills – Oh My! What Every Teen Should Know About Supplements

Building a strong and healthy body takes time, good food, plenty of rest, and some patience. If patience isn’t your strong suit, supplementation may look like a good option to speed the process. While some supplements for teens can be healthy, you must choose with care and dose properly.

Daily Recommended Intake

To supplement properly, you need to study the recommended dosage. A little can go a long way and more isn’t necessarily better. In fact, there are some products that can be dangerous if you overdo it. For example, iron, Vitamin D, and Vitamin A can all be fatal in extremely high doses. A simple beginning choice is to use a probiotic to support digestion and potentially improve absorption of vitamins in the food you already eat.

How They’re Made

The cheapest supplements aren’t always the best. For example, you may want to lift weights and find a great deal on magnesium to support your joint health. Unfortunately, supplements that are cheaper are full of fillers, which causes inflammation, and cause you to be more sore than you would have been without the magnesium. Before you buy, source the ingredients. The manufacturing process may involve multiple companies or groups, or it might be handled by a turnkey company. If you don’t know where the factory is or if it’s subjected to quality inspections, buy from another company.

Additional Supplementation for Athletes

If you play a sport or just want to get stronger, focus on diet first. Filling up on garbage won’t give your body the fuel it needs to function, let alone build new muscle. Plan snacks ahead of time so you have a piece of fruit, some cheese, or a handful of nuts close by when you get hungry. Avoid loading up on too much sugar throughout the day. If you want to add a protein shake or another supplement, confirm the source to make sure you’re not ingesting contaminants that can either poison you or get you knocked out of your sport of choice. Be vigilant about what goes in your body for the best health you can build. Most importantly, stay hydrated as you work out and compete.

Garbage comes in many forms. From a bag of chips to a supplement loaded with fillers, you can limit your health by taking the wrong thing and eating unhealthy food. To stay strong, do your best to stick to a plate that contains protein, whole grains and plenty of vegetables and be sure the supplements you take will help you rather than harm you.

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What High School Students Should Expect From Online University Classes

There are many reasons to consider taking an online college course prior to graduating high school. It is a great way to get a jumpstart on earning college credit. Online courses can also prepare you for what you will encounter in a typical college class. However, you should be aware of the differences between taking a class online and taking one on campus. It pays to familiarize yourself with the features of the virtual classroom.

Online Communication

Learning how to navigate the course is key to success in the virtual classroom. Instructors will expect you not just to log in but also to engage with others. Participation requires that you communicate with other students in the course message board or chat room. Instructors will often post a question and expect a response from every student. Likewise, you may be expected to communicate with the instructor directly throughout the course via email or its internal message system.

Course Materials Platform

Online courses typically come with tools that guide you through the course material. These resources often include navigation areas, such as those found on some websites. When you dig deeper into the course, you may find that its information is organized into modules. These modules resemble units in a textbook, each with its own course objectives. Sometimes, the only way to progress to the next module is to successfully complete the requirements of the preceding one. Be sure to keep pace.

Webinars

Some online classes include opportunities to interact in real time with your instructor and peers. These webinars often require the use of a headset or webcam. Some students prefer live webinars as they feel as if they are in a physical classroom. These students find that they learn best in a live environment, while others prefer to review video and audio lectures after the fact. You should decide what is most conducive to your particular learning style.

A myth persists that online courses are easy. This is not so. Universities require most online classes to duplicate the work requirements found in their brick-and-mortar counterparts. You will be reading, taking quizzes and tests, and interacting with your peers. Online classes also require a slight learning curve the first time you take one. Many students report that enrolling in an online college course is a great way to get a feel for what college is like—while avoiding commuting and lines at the dining hall.

If you’re thinking of continuing your education more after high school, read these tips: Why You Should Continue Your Education After High School