Entertainment Business Student Discusses His Pursuits
Entertainment Business student Zachary Hines was recently named one of Variety’s Students to Watch. We caught up with him to ask a few questions about his motivations in the industry.
What made you want to get into the entertainment industry?
“I grew up in an entertainment family. My dad (Gregory Hines) was an actor, my mother was a music producer and composer. I always knew I wanted to be part of this business. It would only a question of whether I had what it takes to succeed in the business. Not everyone is cut out for this due to the amount of work it takes. Once I knew this was what I wanted to do, I had to move forward and put in the work. Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to make movies.”
Was there any one piece of entertainment material that got you interested in getting involved?
“I would have to credit this VHS tape that I had: The Making of Thriller, for getting me interested in this industry.”
What made you interested the Entertainment Business degree program?
“I wanted to expand my knowledge of the business side of things. Today I don’t think it is enough to just be an artist. You need to at least have a fundamental understanding of the business. With everything in the industry there are contracts and negotiations.”
Having taken a Contract Negotiations class, I feel so much better about looking at contracts.
What are your favorite classes so far?
“Contract Negotiations, Business Law and Copyright. For anyone entertaining the entertainment industry they should absolutely learn these things.”
What would you like to do after graduation?
“I would like to direct and produce movies”
Any words of advice to people looking to make movies or get into entertainment?
“Watch as many movies as possible. Watch classic movies and old movies. I feel like it is only after watching movies that you fill out as a filmmaker.”
Thank you so much for your time, Zachary! Looking forward to hearing more about your pursuits as you continue your program!