Some of entertainment’s most special people are heading back to school.

The WIF/GM Alliance’s College Lecture Series gives students a taste of real life through a new campus outreach program that pairs practical experience with curriculum-based learning. As the Series travels to colleges around the country, film students and industry professionals are given the chance to learn life lessons from distinguished industry insiders, who offer personal insight and guidance in a classroom environment.

The pilot program kicked off in October 2005 at Clark Atlanta University, part of the Atlanta University Center, the largest consortium of African-American higher education in the United States. First up on the lecture circuit was Debra Martin Chase, an accomplished television and film producer, whose credits include The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants, The Princess Diaries and Courage Under Fire. A VIP reception and a Senior Question and Answer session rounded out the Series, which will continue on to Syracuse University and an ongoing roster of colleges and speakers in 2006.

Atlanta undergraduate students who are WIF members were able to maximize their learning with paid internships that offer valuable on-the-job training, college credit and a $500 stipend. Four internships will be awarded per lecture event.

You’ve got a lot to learn. We’ve got a lot to teach. Sounds like a reel deal.