L-R: Rob Bertrand, CBS; Jim Starzynski, NBC; Allan Tucker, Foothill Digital; John Kiehl, Soundtrack; Dan Foley, Audio Precision
The topic of the March meeting is an annual event, and true to form, the room was packed with students, recent graduates, and faculty members. Five members of the industry shared their views and experiences about internships, including how to get them, how to keep them, and how to get the most out of them.
Internships are not "free labor" for the employers, it is an investment by the employer in training students in the job skills necessary for entering the workforce (often, hopefully, for their company.) For many employers, it is a requirement that the student get course credit for their work. The interns also need to "bring something to the table," which includes punctuality, honesty, and a passion for what they want to do, during and after the internship.
Opportunities for the student to learn during the internship are many. The speakers shared their insight and recommendations about opportunities for prospective interns. These included:
• Acquiring "people skills"
• Learning how to join the workforce
• Honing problem-solving techniques
• Networking with peers and mentors
• Have a passion for what you do
• Listen to the way the world sounds
• "Don't p*ss people off."
The presenters answered many questions for students after the presentations. The NY Section thanks the presenters, NYU, and the students for making this an exciting meeting.
