And why does a 46-year-old graphic designer want to start over as an animation intern at Pixar anyway? It’s a fair question. So Let me answer it here. There’s only so much you get across in a resumé, after all.

I’ve had a successful career as a graphic designer that I’ve enjoyed every step of the way. But there’s something else I want to do with my life, something more closely aligned to my passions, something more in line with what I want to contribute to this world, to my children and to future generations—and that thing is stories, animated films in particular.

I think stories shape who we choose to be as a culture, as a species, and I want to be a part of that conversation, because I think I have something of value to offer. My two young kids see that value in me, as I invent them stories and sing them songs and draw them comic strips and take them out to movies. They see my passion and talent and I think they’ve given me the strength to see it in myself. It’s the greatest, kindest gift I’ve ever gotten—they have given me the courage to get back to the child in me, and to go after the dreams I’ve had since I was their age.

The idea of starting an animation career from the ground up is as invigorating as it is nerve-racking. But I want to do it and I’m willing to start at the start, and put in the work all over again. I’ll start where I’m needed, where I can be of value, and I’ll prove myself and I’ll see where it goes from there.

I would love this opportunity to show you how much I revere what you do at Pixar, and for any opportunity to be a small part of that wonderful magic that you make. Your stories have heart, they have values, and artistry and originality and above all, quality. I revere what you do so very much.

Thank you,

—-Adrian M. Symcox