This article examines the position of the "runner" as an entry-level route into film and television production. Through the analysis of publicly available industry guidance materials, desirable characteristics and dispositions associated with working as a runner are identified. A recurring understanding emerges in these materials that the "rite of passage" of working as a runner is a necessary step for those seeking to break into film and TV production. In turn, tensions are revealed with perspectives from higher education students who question the value of mundane entry-level work and stress their degree experiences as a means to negotiate and challenge seemingly established career pathways.