Working in New York

The overall message from freelance film editor Genetta Adams was loud and clear: don't come to New York looking for work if you don't have journalism experience. She also admitted the cost of living is high, the job rate is low and the field is in a state of chaos.
On the other hand, Ohio native and KSU grad Shannon Lanier came to New York jobless, but after a chance meeting with a TV executive now works as a reporter and a producer for two separate New York media companies.
These mixed messages from two of our guest speakers today simply prove that no path leads to the same place. I think the young journalism students in our group understand that getting their first job will not be easy, but with a little luck and a lot of determination it can be done.
All 6 of our guest speakers at the KSU New York Studio were candid about the job possibilities here. I honestly don't think Adams' intention was to discourage the students, but rather encourage them to be engaged, actively participate in their community, post on other people's blogs and be imaginative. In other words, get noticed.
Other powerful suggestions included don't sit on ideas; build and keep personal ethical boundaries; make contacts and know your outlets; keep your ears to the ground and don't limit yourself; figure out how to brand yourself; and accept that you might not get to where you're going through ordinary channels.
I think one of the best pieces of advice was given by Lanier. He said no matter what industry you choose, get your writing skills down. Learn how to write! So, photographers and videographers, sharpen that writing pencil because you're going to need it.
At the end of the day, it was clear all of the New York-based entertainment speakers didn't arrive here the same way, but they all agreed on one thing: they wanted to be here.