Veteran script supervisor Mia Wicklund, a 2012 graduate of Columbia College Chicago’s Arts Management master’s program, returned to her alma mater in February to lead a masterclass for Film and Television students. The session, titled “The Secrets of Script Supervising,” aimed to prepare students for the responsibilities of working as a script supervisor on professional film sets.
Wicklund began her career in the industry as a production assistant on “Home Alone 2” before moving into roles such as location scout and ultimately focusing on script supervision. Her recent credits include television series like “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Med,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Dark Matter,” “Emperor of Ocean Park,” and currently, “The Chi.”
“I really enjoy being a script supervisor because I love working closely with directors and supporting their vision,” Wicklund said.
During the masterclass, Wicklund described the role of script supervisor as essential in the filmmaking process. She explained that script supervisors act as a link between production and post-production by tracking continuity, timing scenes, logging takes, and ensuring that footage can be edited together smoothly. She also noted that the position requires communication with every department while managing all responsibilities independently.
Students participated in hands-on activities such as timing scripts—a skill producers use to estimate project length—by reading scripts aloud and acting out action beats. This process helps determine if scenes need to be revised or shortened based on estimated screen time.
Carolina Posse, associate director and associate professor at Columbia’s School of Film and Television, commented on the practical value of the session: “What students learned today helps students get on set and then jump right in on smaller class productions and start practicing the skillset.”
Wicklund expressed her enthusiasm about returning to teach at Columbia College Chicago: “I love the business overall, and enjoy getting to know student filmmakers,” she said. “It can be difficult for students to find footing, and I hope to inspire them and support their efforts.”
