Other video editing programs include iMovie, Filmora9, DaVinci Resolve. Although they are less commonly used in professional film editing, being familiar with them can’t hurt. Keep an eye out for new technology and software you may need to familiarize yourself with.

Try searching for footage for practice editing online. You don’t need to shoot your own video to practice editing.

The more practice you can get, the better. Consider adding in sound effects and music. Although this isn’t traditionally a film editor’s job, you will probably get your start with smaller organizations who will be happy if you can handle sound as well as video.

Having a few projects on your resume will help get you more video editing jobs.

In addition to learning how to use different editing software, you need to know how to talk about the artistic vision for the film with the director, make decisions about keeping and cutting clips, and create stories.

The more you can learn about film, the better. Take courses to help you understand acting, directing, sound and the flow of narrative.

If you don’t want to do a bachelor’s degree online, you can still find courses, tutorials, and projects to boost your knowledge online.

The more practice you can get, the better.

You may have to have a reel or portfolio in order to get into a graduate program.

Start with your strongest work. Not everyone will finish watching your demo reel, so you want to capture the attention right away with your first clip. Editors starting out in the industry usually put their reels on YouTube and Vimeo.

A PA job can include paperwork, cleaning up, setting up craft services, answering the phone, and getting coffee. You may need to work long or odd hours as a PA. Employment usually lasts as long as production lasts. A typical PA job might last around 3-4 months.

Don’t be afraid to ask for an introduction if you know someone who knows a video editor.

Cutting music videos, trailers, or short films is a good way to add projects to your reel.

To have a better shot at getting an assistant editor job, get certified in using Avid or Premiere Pro.

Have patience while you looking for your first editor job.