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Adam Tobin
Screenwriter, Playwright, Senior Lecturer at Stanford University
Adam Tobin is a Senior Lecturer in Film and Media Studies at Stanford University, where he teaches courses in screenwriting, script analysis, TV pilot writing, fiction film production, and adaptation.12 As an accomplished screenwriter and educator, Tobin brings a wealth of industry experience to his academic role.
Professional Background
Tobin has an extensive background in the entertainment industry. He created the half-hour comedy series "About a Girl" and the reality series "Best Friend's Date" for Viacom's The-N channel (now TeenNick).1 His writing credits extend to major networks and organizations, including ABC, ESPN, Discovery Channel, and the National Basketball Association.1
Before his academic career, Tobin worked as a story analyst for Jim Henson Pictures, providing him with valuable insights into the film development process.1
Teaching and Academic Contributions
At Stanford, Tobin is known for his engaging teaching style and industry-relevant courses. He offers classes in:
- Script Analysis
- Screenwriting
- TV Pilot Writing
- Fiction Film Production
- Adaptation1
Beyond his regular courses, Tobin teaches in Stanford's Arts Intensive program and offers an "Improvisationally Speaking" course in Stanford Continuing Studies.1
Industry Connections
Tobin maintains strong ties to the entertainment industry, conducting story and pitching seminars at prominent animation studios such as:
- Dreamworks Animation
- Twentieth Century Fox/Blue Sky Studios
- Aardman Animations1
These connections provide his students with valuable insights into current industry practices and expectations.
Notable Achievements
In 2020, Tobin's play "She Persisted: The Musical," adapted from Chelsea Clinton's children's book, was performed at the Atlantic Theatre Company and received recognition as a New York Times Critic's Pick.1
Tobin's teaching prowess has not gone unnoticed. In 2014, he was named among the top 10 professors at Stanford University by a student publication, sharing this honor with renowned faculty members like Tobias Wolff and Mehran Sahami.3
Adam Tobin's combination of industry experience, academic expertise, and dedication to teaching makes him a valuable asset to Stanford's Film and Media Studies program, helping to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice for aspiring filmmakers and media professionals.