Help support the CJ Saraceno Internship in Los Angeles

This crowdfunding project has ended, but you can still support the CJ Saraceno internship program. Thank you for your continued support!

Through the CJ Saraceno internship program, five talented students have been given the chance to launch their film careers in a meaningful way. They each spent a summer in L.A. pursuing their passions, building their networks and interning at Bona Fide Productions, the award-winning company behind Little Miss Sunshine and Nebraska. 

"This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dive into a difficult industry," said Jessica Howard, who graduated last year and had never been to California until this scholarship. "It was an amazing gift, and I'll always be grateful."

These experiences were made possible with the help of numerous friends, family and alumni like you. 

Help us empower more students! Help us keep this program going -- Our goal is to enable as many students as possible to succeed in this competitive world. Thank you!

In memory of CJ Saraceno (Class of 2011)

This internship program was created in memory of CJ Saraceno, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 24. CJ was a creative force, a thoughtful friend and a brilliant classmate. He grew up in Connecticut, discovered his passions at Tufts and, armed with a degree in political science and media studies, drove out to Los Angeles to turn those passions into opportunities. Full of energy, he was dedicated to exploring new methods of storytelling and left behind a powerful portfolio of ambitious endeavors that challenged the status quo.

In the spirit of CJ, this internship program provides Tufts students the opportunity to find their own creative voice and to make a difference in how stories are told. 

Your donation provides transformational experiences

Los Angeles can be intimidating. From buying a plane ticket, to renting a car and navigating a world of unpaid film gigs, the barriers to the industry can be insurmountable. CJ knew how hard it was but charged ahead. We want to provide those who share his vision the opportunity to “make it” in the Los Angeles media world.

The program, administered by the Film and Media Studies Department at Tufts, offers an internship and financial support to one student each summer. Students who otherwise would not have the financial means to pursue internships in Los Angeles are given special consideration.

How did CJ inspire you?

We'd love to hear your memories of CJ. Please email TheCJScholarship@gmail.com, and we'll share these stories in thank you notes and as updates on this project page.