This is a series dedicated to highlighting the insights our students gained during their internships.
Name: Jordan Boge, Department of Film & Media Arts
Internship: Participant Media, Beverly Hills CA
What responsibilities did you have as an intern?
I was the Documentary Film & TV intern. I spent the summer mostly supporting the Senior Vice President of Documentary as their personal assistant. I helped them schedule all their calls, as well as facilitating in-company and new project meetings. Additionally, I read and reviewed incoming documentary project submissions while also offering my own feedback and thoughts.
What new skills/knowledge did you gain from your internship?
One of the main pieces of knowledge I acquired during my internship was figuring out precisely what I wanted to do. I had the chance to meet and chat with people across many different parts of the film industry and those conversations helped me to ultimately realize where I belong in the process of making movies and television. It was invaluable to understand what I didn't like as equally important to know what I do like. Additionally, I was able to sharpen and hone in my people skills. Being able to work with any type of personality is vital in accomplishing any task. I walked away with new confidence in how to work with different people and communicate effectively.
What connections did you make and how do you think those connections may help you in your career?
Most of the connections I made in LA were with executives at the company. Participant was a very open place, so I got the chance to talk to the CEO and other top level executives and hear their stories. All of their advice was instrumental in deciphering where I belong in the film industry, and their thoughts and struggles have informed the path I am currently on. Those connections are people I still stay in touch with and I often seek their counsel in decisions I make around my career. Most importantly they saw who I was, and helped me understand where I need to be in order to have the most impact and purpose.
What advice would you give other students who are interested in a similar internship?
My biggest piece of advice is to work extremely hard. Dedicate yourself to the dream you have and do whatever it takes to get there. For all the mistakes you make, the knowledge you lack, or inexperience you have, working hard can overcome all of that. If you're not willing to make sacrifices, tough decisions, and push through obstacles then top level instruments will be even more difficult to obtain. Work as hard as you can, do it with a smile, and have fun! Strive for goals and dreams that fulfill your purpose.
Are there other things you would like to tell us?
Set realistic expectations for what kinds of internships you want to get. If you don't have much experience or technical skills, strive for internships that don't require much experience. Everything is a stepping stone, and you can't expect to be at the top of the mountain without walk up.