A University alumnus who produces, writes and stars in his own TV series will give advice to aspiring student filmmakers today. Before meeting with students, he granted an interview with The Red & Black Tuesday.

Henry Cameron “Hadjii” Hand, a 1999 University telecommunication arts grad, got his big break when his independent film “Somebodies” was converted into a BET sitcom.

Hand was reluctant to sign the TV deal at first. He said he wasn’t the network’s biggest fan, due in part to its portrayal of blacks. But he decided to lead by example with “Somebodies,” an Athens-based coming-of-age show that follows Scottie, a party-loving black college senior trying to reorient his life.

Students interested in a career in film should take advantage of the University they attend and the resources it offers, Hand said.

“Make them earn that check,” he said, encouraging students to ask questions and seek extra help.

Though he encouraged students to break out on their own after college, he said rushing out to Hollywood right after graduation might not be such a good idea.

He advised students to work locally in Georgia and build a “resume” of work, then use that work to build a career. Before “Somebodies” garnered big network attention, it was an independent film Hand made and debuted at the Sundance film festival.

Building a career in showbusiness takes time, and Hand- who worked at the Classic Center and in public relations after graduating – acknowledged that beginning filmmakers may need to take other work to support themselves.

“If you can be an accountant and still find time to write, that’s what I suggest you do,” he said.

Since he left college a decade ago, Hand said new equipment, technology and professors have brought new energy and even more possibility for students.

His show focuses on real life issues from a black perspective, Hand said, an idea that stemmed from conversations he and his friends had while he was a senior at the University. Because Scottie has to piece his life together, his family offers to help. The problem is, the people surrounding Scottie are “crazier than he is,” Hand said.

When discussing negative aspects of society, Hand said:

“If you’re not funny, you’re complaining.”