At AnimationMentor.com, we dedicate an entire class to teaching our students how to build demo reels: What to do, what not to do, how to make a reel stand out to potential recruiters, etc. Obviously, there isn't room for all the details in a newsletter, but we've chosen five of the most important things to keep in mind to pass along to you, our subscribers. So, here you go: five things NOT to do when creating a demo reel.

I realized in college that I didn't want to end up at some boring desk job pushing papers just to earn a living. I wanted to do something that I really enjoyed, that I would go to work for even if I didn't get paid for it. So I became a film major, and by chance happened to take a few animation classes. I was hooked!

For a normal person at the end of a normal work week, realizing it?s a Friday should bring happiness, joy, and maybe even relief that the weekend is just hours away. For me, Fridays are a way of looking back and thinking, "Where did all the time go???"

Hi Everyone! I just wanted to share a very inspiring letter I received from one of our students in Iceland. We are so blown away that we're able to help other people achieve their dreams. Thanks so much, Ævar, for sharing your story.

I would say that I most identify with Chicken Little, and before you say it, it's not because he's short, but because of his optimistic nature. I do my best to remain optimistic and keep my head up, especially when I make mistakes. I always try to live by a motto which reminds me that, everyday is a new day and I should always learn from my mistakes and keep moving forward.

Did you know that the animators who brought to life Boga, the lizard Obi Wan rides in Star Wars, Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith, based her movements on a freshwater crocodile and a Philippine eagle?

Welcome to the first in a series of mini-articles broadly titled "Animation Tips & Tricks." Each month we'll be throwing a new technique or animation concept at you to keep in mind as you work on your latest and greatest animation tests!

The Animation Mentor Report is your inside guide to US movie releases and the visual effect companies who made movie magic.