In a new series, we explore some of the USC School of Dramatic Arts’ most helpful resources, introduced by the staff and faculty who manage them. In this installment, we talk with Debi Manwiller, new Director of the Professional Development Center, about everything the center has to offer.

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Tell us about yourself and your role at the Professional Development Center.

Debi Manwiller: I’m beyond thrilled to be joining USC as the new Director for the SDA Professional Development Center (PDC). I’m a career Casting Director with over 35 years of experience casting in film, television, theatre and video games. I’m honored to be taking over the reins from Dan Shaner, whose vision helped create the center in 2017.

The SDA PDC mission is to expose students to a diverse spectrum of career possibilities. The PDC helps students prepare for the changing and challenging landscape in the entertainment industry. Multihyphenate artists and those with diversity of experience find themselves much better positioned for success in our industry.

Why is the Professional Development Center a valuable resource that SDA students should know about?

So many reasons! It is a fantastic “bridge” to whichever path you choose in the Entertainment Industry.

Registered SDA PDC members have access to a self-tape studio, free headshot service, job postings, mentorships with SDA alumni (for acting and design and production students in their final semester) and more. Members receive ongoing professional development advice and can sign up for a on-one-one with me for career counseling, plus preparation and review of your professional materials (resumes, self-tapes, demo reels, websites, etc.). Audition coaching with faculty is also available.

Throughout the year there are in-person and online workshops and panels with casting directors, casting executives at studios and networks, directors, producers, show runners, writers and actors. I welcome student and faculty suggestions about panels and workshops you would like to see.

What is the most underutilized resource at the Professional Development Center?

There are so many fantastic events and programs offered at USC, so there is definitely competition for your attention! Check the weekly email blasts that you will receive from the PDC and attend as many of the panels and workshops as you can. I’m definitely looking forward to having more students sign up for the services earlier in their time at USC. I hope to see you for a one-on-one meeting before you’re one month away from graduation.

What is one thing about the Professional Development Center you wish all SDA students knew?

The PDC is now open to all SDA students – not just Juniors and Seniors. We will offer tiered services depending on your year level so you can begin charting your path sooner rather than later. Trojans are lucky! The SDA PDC is still the first and only dedicated career center in the country that offers these specialized services for a dramatic arts program.

How can SDA students learn more if they’re curious about the Professional Development Center?

You can visit the PDC website on the student portal to sign up to be added to the email blast list and to have access to sign up for services. You can also email me directly or email my assistant Ella Godinez. I’ll be keeping regular in-person office hours two days a week and if I’m not busy you are welcome to drop in!