Journalism Alumni Stage First “Let’s Talk Jobs” Event
Members of the Journalism Advisory Board returned to campus on October 17 for the Journalism Department’s first Let’s Talk Jobs career workshop, where they participated in table conversations, industry discussions and one-on-one resume critiques. Members shared internship insights, resume tips and interviewing skills for their respective industries with more than 80 students in attendance.
By Brooke Cashin
“My hope is that the participating students use this networking experience to their advantage and keep the conversations going with those of us in professions they will soon find themselves in,” said Danielle Samaniego (Journalism, ’00), senior manager of digital social content at Levi Strauss and Co. “It was truly a pleasure to converse with so many students passionate about their futures. It not only inspired me, it gives me great hope for the future of journalism and communications.”
Students listened to table talks on topics like Resume Building for Beginners, Nailing the Interview and What You Can Do with a Journalism Degree. The interview session led by Michela O’Connor Abrams, founder and CEO of Moca+, garnered high attendance from students.
“I loved listening to Michela Abrams’ table talk,” journalism senior Megan LaChance said. “I can definitely say I will be walking into my next interview with more confidence and her tips in mind.”
Throughout the evening, advisory board members gave advice and shared insights about their college years and careers. In Industry Conversations sessions on broadcast news, sports journalism, government PR, agency PR and more, students learned about how to break in as a recent graduate. Sessions tailored to students’ most pressing questions, such as How to Get A Paid Internship, led by Los Angeles Times staff writer Cindy Carcamo (Journalism, 01) and Professor Patrick Howe, also attracted a crowd.
“I loved this event, as it felt like a career fair without the push to collect resumes and job leads but rather to have meaningful conversations with students about their interests,” said Steve Enders, senior partner manager at Roku Inc.
Thank you to the following Advisory Board members for joining us: Michela O’Connor Abrams, Melanie Bedwell, Claudia Buck, Cindy Carcamo, Melissa Chechourka, Keith Eldridge, Steve Enders, Melissa Geisler, Peter Hartlaub, David Kerley, Robert Logan, Ara Najarian, Ellen Pensky, Kevin Riggs, Danielle Samaniego, Julia Sulek and Dan Watson.