Why join the Student Advisory Board?
Be a change-maker
Your ideas go directly into films that reach students across the country. You will see your input show up on screen.
Get real-world experience
Hands-on exposure to how films are made and how a nonprofit runs. Plus access to mental health resources and youth-focused training along the way.
Grow as a leader
Represent Glowmedia in your community. Build a portfolio of meaningful work you can put on your resume, college application, or reel.
Connect with peers nationwide
Work alongside students from every kind of school and every kind of community. Same mission, different perspectives.
What you'll actually do
Four real ways your perspective shapes our work.
1. Help pick the next film
Read entries from our national script competition, share your reactions, and help decide which story moves forward into production.
2. Shape curriculum and companion guides
Weigh in on the discussion guides, classroom activities, and resources that accompany each Glowmedia film.
3. Influence tone, design, and casting
Contribute to mood boards, character ideas, and feedback during pre-production.
4. Vet how we talk to your peers
Review trailers, social media posts, marketing copy, and event language before we hit publish. If something feels off, we want to know.
Who Can Apply
We recruit from every kind of school and every kind of community. Title I, rural, tribal, magnet, charter, private, public, alternative, and homeschool students are all encouraged to apply.
There is no GPA requirement. No prior film experience needed. We are looking for real voices, not perfect resumes.
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Currently in grades 9-12 (or homeschool / alternative equivalent)
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Ages 13 to 19
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Reliable internet for virtual meetings
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Interest in mental health, storytelling, film, marketing, journalism, or community work
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Ability to commit 4-6 hours per month
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Parent or guardian consent for applicants under 18
How It Works
Step 1: The application deadline is October 31, 2026.
Step 2: Candidates will be notified in November.
Step 3: If you're a strong fit, we invite you to a 15-minute virtual conversation to get to know you.
Step 4: If you're accepted and under 18, a parent or guardian joins us for a brief virtual orientation - just so they know what you'll be doing and who you'll be working with. Safety first!
Step 5: You complete a short student orientation, get added to our private board workspace, and you're officially on the SAB.
The Production Cycle
A snapshot of how the SAB plugs into the Glowmedia film cycle.
August → Script contest opens
Writers across the country submit scripts to the Glowmedia National Competition.
January 8, 2027 → Script contest closes
Submissions move into review.
January → SAB reads the finalists
Board members read the strongest scripts and provide feedback.
February 5, 2027 → Winner announced
Glowmedia selects the winning script, factoring in SAB feedback.
February - April → Script development
The winning writer works directly with Glowmedia to develop the script for production. SAB members are tapped for read-throughs and feedback.
May → Production
The film is made. SAB members may be invited to participate in on-set opportunities.
Summer / Fall → Release
Trailers, marketing, and rollout all get SAB review before launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know anything about film?
No. We want to know how you think, not what you already know.
Do I need straight A's?
No. We don't ask for your GPA. We want real voices over perfect transcripts.
How much time does this actually take?
About 4 to 6 hours per month, with flexibility around school, work, and life.
Will my parent/guardian need to be involved?
If you are under 18, yes. We require a parent or guardian to join a brief 15 to 20-minute virtual orientation before you start. After that, you do the work yourself.
Is this paid?
No. The SAB is a volunteer role. We will provide a participation letter each year. Eligibility for letters of recommendation and screen credit is evaluated on an individual basis.
I'm already a senior. Should I still apply?
Yes. You serve until you graduate or choose to step down. Even a few months on the board is meaningful.
What if I'm not great at writing?
You can submit video or audio responses for any open-ended question on the application.
When are decisions made?
The application deadline is October 31, 2026. Candidates will be notified in November.
