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Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism University of Southern California
ALUMNI

Jasmine Ellis

Class of 2007, Bachelor's



After graduating, I reached out to two ATVN alums working in San Diego. They were able to pass my resume along to managers at KNSD. I got a job as a writer there and in 6 months, I was on staff as an associate producer and then a full time producer. I left San Diego for Baltimore. I was contacted by WJZ in Baltimore after meeting a CBS recruiter at NABJ. After a year and a half at WJZ, I applied for an opening at my hometown station WPVI in Philadelphia. A networking connection put my resume in the hands of an EP there and after a few weeks I was hired.

Survey

What are the top three skills journalism students should learn in college?:

Writing!!!! Loving writing and being a great writer will set you apart from the rest!



What were your duties at ATVN? :

I started at ATVN as a writer, I then worked as a floor director and then a reporter. While reporting I got interested in the people making decisions about the shows, the producers. Once I started producing I was hooked...and I still am today!



How did ATVN prepare you for your career?:

I think the key to surviving in a newsroom is understanding and having respect for all of the other positions. ATVN teaches you what other people do, and what it takes to get those jobs done.

Advice: Don't be afraid to reach out to people who are doing exactly what you want to do. They will have great advice that can help you reach your goals.

It's tough to accept, but the best way to learn in journalism is to make mistakes. Just make it your goal to never make the same mistake twice.



What should graduates keep in mind when negotiating their first job?:

Know your worth and be confident. Tell people what you know you CAN do, don't second guess your abilities.

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