November 5, 2014
Journalism students had a chance to speak first-hand with industry professionals at a recent “speed mentoring” event where they received information regarding resume building, internship opportunities and one-on-one advice.
The Journalism Alumni Association (JAA) recently hosted the “speed mentoring” session featuring media professionals specializing in broadcast, public relations, print/online and photojournalism.
“The value of our degree depends on the support of our alumni propelling us (forward) with their experience,” said graduating senior Pete D. Camarillo.
The four-hour event, which started at lunchtime at the Orange Grove Bistro here on the CSUN campus, allowed almost 40 students to meet with various professionals for 15 minutes each to get insider information on the industry as well as to allow the professionals an opportunity to give the students personal advice and feedback.
“I wish there had been something like this when I was a student,” said JAA Vice President Roberta Wax. “We are truly grateful to our mentors. It’s our way to give back.”
JAA President Bob Tarlau stressed the importance of the association’s goal, which is to serve students through mentoring and tutoring opportunities. The goal is to give students exposure to real-life professionals in real-life positions.
“To me, our priority should be to use our collective talents to help students,” said Tarlau.
Both the mentors and the students in attendance were grateful for the chance to have personal interaction with others interested in the journalism field.
One of the best parts of the event was “meeting enthusiastic fresh faces who will be the future of journalism,” said Nancy Sayles, a public relations professional and owner of a book publishing company.
Senior Timothy Whitfield agreed that events like this are beneficial to students who are preparing to leave college and enter into the business.
“I felt it provide the contacts I needed to succeed in this particular field,” said Whitfield.
- Samantha Simonds