Class of 2004

Jessica DePalma Producer NBC Mobile, New York, NY depalma@alumni.usc.edu

Bio:

After graduating from USC in 2004 I was hired by NBC in New York. I am currently a producer with NBC Mobile, which provides content for a variety of platforms at the network, including mobile phones, the web and broadcast.

ATVN positions and duties:

Director, Technical Director, Reporter, Writer, Shooter, Editor, Camera, Etc.

How did ATVN prepare you for your current job?

I only realized after I had made it into the real world how much ATVN really had prepared me for my first job. ATVN gives students hands-on experience. From using the camera to editing to working in the control room — students will definitely use the skills they learn at ATVN after they graduate. 

What is your advice to aspiring journalists?

My advice to current USC students is to take advantage of all of ATVN’s resources, including the technical equipment, facilities and especially the staff. 

What are the top three skills college journalism students should be working on in order to be prepared for their first broadcasting job?

In general for news producers, I’d say three important skills are: 1.) Editorial 2.) Writing 3.) Production

What is the most important thing a college journalist should know when he or she is trying to negotiate his or her first job?

Aside from wearing a nice suit and getting to the interview on time, my advice is to really sell yourself. Coming out of USC’s journalism program, you’ll be ahead of the game. Take the opportunity to brag about everything you’ve learned at ATVN because it will impress potential employers.

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