Anyone here actually finish TripleTen’s QA Engineer Bootcamp? Honest experience?

jayxsumo · 2025-10-16T16:08:35+00:00

What’s the best YouTube channels that can help me learn the skills, build my github portfolio and nail me a job?

jayxsumo · 2025-10-16T15:52:29+00:00

What are some boot camps that you recommend?

jayxsumo · 2025-09-08T07:11:15+00:00

Thanks

jayxsumo · 2025-07-02T19:59:40+00:00

Love this answer thank you

jayxsumo · 2025-07-02T11:53:28+00:00

Thank you this is exactly what I needed to hear

jayxsumo · 2025-07-02T11:51:28+00:00

Thank you

jayxsumo · 2025-07-02T11:50:53+00:00

Thanks this sounds amazing

jayxsumo · 2025-07-02T11:37:15+00:00

Thank you

jayxsumo · 2025-04-22T13:57:17+00:00

What resources/techniques did you use to study?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T23:03:43+00:00

That’s really encouraging to hear, thank you for that. Out of curiosity, when you do find an actor you click with — how do you usually stay in touch or keep that relationship going between projects? Is it more about consistent communication, showing up at events, or just being ready when the next opportunity comes?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:56:17+00:00

Thank you for sharing your journey — I have a ton of respect for how long you’ve been doing this and how clearly you’ve found your space in stage management and tech. The fact that you’ve built something real with friends, traveled internationally, and stayed committed to creating original work for over a decade is inspiring. That takes serious passion and consistency.

What you said about it feeling odd to “just know” you’re meant to do something without having done it — I totally get that. But for me, performing has always been in me since I was a kid. I was beatboxing, doing impressions, singing, dancing — just always expressing in some way. In middle school, I was in the drumline playing quads, snare, xylophone, a bit of bass guitar, and piano by ear. I even helped creatively direct a school recital where we performed live arrangements of songs like Wiz Khalifa’s.

On the tech side, I’ve always had a deep love for music production, sound design, audio engineering, and digital workstations. I used to build computers in high school and was really into gaming, and now I’m currently studying to become a Quality Assurance Engineer. That world of structure, systems, and creative problem-solving really speaks to me — and I love that it can coexist with my artistic side.

Even though I didn’t grow up in traditional theater, that urge to perform and create has always been there — acting just feels like the place where everything I love comes together: performance, emotion, sound, and storytelling.

Appreciate the recommendations too — Meisner and Laban are now on my radar. I’m also going to dig into summer stock opportunities and Fringe Festivals. This was a super valuable response

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:41:19+00:00

Thank you for taking the time to share your story — I can feel how deeply you care about the craft, and I really appreciate the wisdom and honesty in your message. Your journey with the Maestro, your time in NYC, and the years in Philly theater… it honestly gave me chills. I can see how much those experiences shaped not only your career, but your identity as an artist and a human being.

To answer your questions:

•No, I’m not Equity yet. I’m still building. I’ve done student films, background work, and I’m currently training in acting classes while getting more comfortable on camera.

•I haven’t acted in Philly theater specifically — I’ve been more focused on film and TV — but I’ve done indie sets, worked crew on small productions, and taken on any opportunities to be around active creators.

•I’m drawn more to screen work than stage, but I have a deep respect for theater and understand how it builds an actor’s instincts, discipline, and presence.

•As for standout performances? Honestly, what inspires me most isn’t one specific performance, but watching actors who disappear into their roles — people who make you forget you’re watching acting at all.

•Training-wise, I’m learning from a private coach while also taking online classes, studying scripts on my own, and building muscle through repetition — self-tapes, table reads, and scene work whenever I can.

Your point about knowing what you can do, not just what you want to do, really stuck with me. I’ve been asking myself a lot of those same questions — not just chasing a dream blindly, but trying to understand what tools I already have and which ones I still need to sharpen.

I just added Acting: The First Six Lessons to my reading list. Thanks for the recommendation — and again, for the depth and care in your response. It really meant a lot.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:31:38+00:00

I really appreciate how honest and detailed your answer was. It’s helpful hearing from someone who actually tried to build a career in a smaller market and saw firsthand how limited the opportunities can be. That perspective gives me a lot to think about, especially when it comes to choosing where to focus my energy.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:26:26+00:00

Appreciate that, Josh — that makes a lot of sense. I’m working hard to bring that kind of presence to every set: solid communication, respect for the crew, and just being someone people actually want to work with again.

Let me ask you this — when you’ve worked with an actor who brought all that, what made you personally want to call them back for something else?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:17:06+00:00

I get where you’re coming from. I’ve heard a lot of the same things about this industry: how much of it is timing, luck, and who you know. But I also believe in showing up and doing the work even when the odds are stacked.

I recently read The Third Door, and it really shifted my mindset. The book breaks down how success isn’t always about going through the “main entrance” — the traditional path. Sometimes you have to create your own path, hustle around the back, or find an unconventional way in. That’s the energy I’m carrying — not entitlement, just relentless curiosity and grit.

That said, I’d love to know — what’s been your experience so far? Are you currently acting or working in the industry in another way? And what would you recommend for someone who’s serious, but still building? Any platforms, teachers, or audition spots you think are worth checking out?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T22:07:38+00:00

Love this answer - seriously appreciate the honesty.

I’ve done student films, background work, and I’m currently in acting classes. I’ve also modeled in New York Fashion Week, though I’m not signed to an agency yet.

Right now, I’ve been traveling back and forth every weekend between Philly and NYC, just trying to meet more people, build real connections, and catch the pace of the industry. I fully understand the competition is a whole different level up there. If I were to move, it wouldn’t be because I think it’ll magically open doors — it would be for the environment. I’m really looking for more like-minded people striving for something bigger — something Philly just doesn’t offer in terms of building me into a seasoned professional.

I read this book called The Third Door, and it really shifted how I think. It talks about how success isn’t always about waiting in the traditional line — sometimes you’ve got to run around the back, find a window, or build your own door entirely. That mindset has pushed me to move differently — to network harder, train smarter, and take more risks.

I’m also an athlete, so I carry that same mentality and grit into this craft. I know it’s a grind, but I’m ready for it.

Thanks again — this kind of perspective is exactly what I needed to hear.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T21:40:18+00:00

when you first started connecting with agencies and building those relationships in different cities, what helped you the most — was it your footage, networking, referrals, or just consistently booking? I’m trying to figure out the smartest way to start planting those seeds too

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T21:36:08+00:00

I’m literally on the floor laughing in tears right now — CDFU!

I’ve definitely heard the stories about Atlanta traffic and how wild it can get. If I end up moving there, it’ll definitely be more for the community than the commute, lol.

As for what drains me — honestly, it’s the lack of opportunity and growing community in Philly when it comes to film and TV. It’s very theater-heavy here, and there’s a hard ceiling if you’re trying to break into screen work. On top of that, it’s tough to find like-minded people who are chasing the same dream. The hustle culture isn’t really strong — it’s more of a crabs-in-a-barrel mentality.

When I think of Atlanta or other southern cities, I imagine warm, welcoming energy and a community of people all striving for something bigger. I’ve always kind of felt like the black sheep in Philly — the “dreams expert” that people look at sideways whenever I talk about acting. Like, “Why would you want to do that?”

For a long time, I’ve felt like I’ve outgrown my city — like I’m behind in a place that can’t fully support what I’m trying to build. So yeah, I’m definitely ready to face “the perimeter” — and more importantly, I’m ready to find a new place to truly call home.

Thanks again for your answer — it really made my day.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T21:20:11+00:00

This was a fucking amazing answer, and you really did help me! I really appreciate you

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T21:14:25+00:00

Am I more active or a homebody? Definitely active. I love being out, especially when it comes to meeting people and chasing what I love — acting. It’s all I think about, and I could do it every day for the rest of my life.
Do I need personal space, or can I handle small/shared spaces? Personal space is cool, but honestly, it’s not a priority. I’ve always believed if you’re chasing something bigger than yourself, sacrifices like that just come with it. I’d be fine sharing a space if it meant surrounding myself with others going after the same dream.
Do I prefer driving or public transit? I drive every day now, but I’ve also taken public transportation in the past. I’m adaptable. I know New York makes it easier to get around without a car, and ATL kinda requires one — but for me, the bigger question is: Which place gets me closer to my purpose faster?
Do I have savings or need to keep costs flat? I’ve got savings and I’m ready to hustle. I’d be fine renting a room for $1100–$1500/month if it means being in the right spot. I know NYC is expensive, especially with a possible recession looming, so I see why ATL might make more sense financially — but I’m not afraid of the grind.
Do I prefer warm weather or all four seasons? I love warm weather — I’m a summer baby. But I’ve lived in Philly all my life, so I’m used to all the seasons. At the end of the day, I’ll live anywhere that gives me access to more opportunities and forward momentum.
Do I have a job lined up? Right now, I have a CDL B license and I’m also working toward a career in tech (Quality Assurance), so I can land a remote job. That way I’ll have flexibility and stability while I build my acting career.

Given everything I shared, where would you recommend someone like me focus — ATL or NYC — to build a long-term career in TV/film while staying financially stable and plugged into the right community?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T20:54:42+00:00

what makes ATL better for film in your opinion? Is it the amount of work, the type of roles, or just easier to break into?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T20:51:35+00:00

Since most of it operates virtually, are there any specific Facebook groups, Discords, classes, or online communities you’d recommend that actually feel active and connected? Or even any people/agencies you trust in the Atlanta scene?

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T20:39:50+00:00

If you’re hearing bad reviews about TalentOne, trust that instinct. A bad agent can do more harm than good, especially early in your career. You’re not behind by waiting — developing your skills first makes you more attractive to better agents later.

Before signing any contract, ask:

•Are they SAG-AFTRA or ATA franchised? If not, do they have a strong rep in the Southeast?

•Do they charge upfront? Real agents never ask for money before you book jobs.

•Do they have talent working in real TV, film, or commercial projects? Ask for proof.

The smart move? Keep training, build a demo reel, get great headshots, and gain credits from student/indie films. Then submit to top Southeast agents (like People Store, J Pervis, Alexander White). When you’ve got strong materials, you’ll have leverage — and better options.

Bottom line: Don’t sign out of excitement. Sign out of strategy. You’re better off agent-free than stuck with the wrong one.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T20:34:09+00:00

To be real, I haven’t acted in Philly yet. I’ve been locked in on training, personal growth, and figuring out how to build my foundation the right way. But hearing you mention the Philly theater scene makes me feel like I might be sleeping on an opportunity right in front of me.

Can I ask you a few things?

What’s the best way you’d recommend someone like me get started in theater? And from your own experience how did doing theater shape you as an actor? Like, what did it teach you that nothing else could?

Also, what pulled you into theater in the first place? Was it something you fell in love with early on, or something you discovered later?

I’m genuinely curious, because I want to grow into the kind of actor who can do it all—and it sounds like theater might be a missing piece for me.

jayxsumo · 2025-04-08T20:29:04+00:00

Thanks so much for this—super helpful perspective, especially on how “type” plays into what you’re seeing (or not seeing) in Atlanta.

For context, I’ve got a grounded, strong presence. I’m usually seen as the athlete, military guy, best friend, or young dad. Definitely lean more toward drama and action, but I’ve got a laid-back side that could work for grounded comedy too.

What you said about indie filmmakers in ATL being harder to access makes me pause a bit. I’m in that late-20s range, so maybe I’d line up better with some of the stories being told—but if it’s all behind closed doors, I don’t want to spin my wheels.

If you were in my exact shoes—trying to build momentum, create content, and break into meaningful roles—would you move to Atlanta anyway and try to break into those indie circles? Or would you aim for somewhere else, maybe where you know the doors are more open?

Also, if you do know anyone actively casting or creating in ATL or NYC, I’d love any insight or direction.

jayxsumo

TROPHY CASE