Writers on the Verge is a 10-week program focused on polishing writers and readying them for a staff writer position on a television series. We are looking for writers who are "almost there," but need that final bit of preparation with their writing and personal presentation skills. We particularly encourage writers of diverse backgrounds to apply.

The program will consist of two night classes, which will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays (7-10pm), weekly at NBC in Universal City, CA. Once accepted, students must attend all classes, and turn in all written assignments.

Classes concentrate on creating an exceptional spec script and understanding the dynamics of pitching oneself in the television industry. Writers are given the chance to interact with industry players ranging from network executives to showrunners to agents, and receive valuable feedback on their work and pitch style. Writing assignments on a NBC television show may be available after successful completion of the program, but are not a guarantee. Past participants have gone on to series including Cold Case, Burn Notice, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and upcoming NBC series, My Own Worst Enemy, Friday Night Lights and The Listener.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. Applicants must submit one properly formatted television spec screenplay based on a show that aired new episodes during the 2007-2008 season on any broadcast or cable network. This script must be submitted as a PDF file.
2. Applicants must provide two brief essays (as a PDF - not to exceed 250 words each) to answer both of the following questions:
   1. What from your background do you bring to the table as a writer that provides a fresh perspective in your storytelling?
   2. What television show most inspired you to become a television writer and why?
3. Applicants must submit a copy of their resume (also as a PDF - including their e-mail address and phone number).
4. Applicants must fill out a release form for their submitted script (click here to download the release form PDF). Once signed, release forms can be scanned and e-mailed in with the application or faxed to (818) 866-2537.
5. Applicants must be able to provide their own housing and transportation in the Los Angeles area for the duration of the program.

TIMELINE
June 30, 2008 – Applications due (3:00PM PST)
September 2-5, 2008 – Finalists interviews
September 8, 2008 – Participants selected
September 23, 2008 – Program begins
December 4, 2008 – Program ends
Applicants not selected will be notified via e-mail after September 8, 2008.
Due to the large number of applications, no coverage or feedback will be provided on material submitted.

Applications and questions should be submitted to writersontheverge@nbcuni.com