Journalism & Mass Communication

Dozens of students and employers mingled around cocktail-style tables on a recent eventing at the fall Media Mixer.

With appetizers and lemonade in hand, representatives from advertising agencies, broadcast news stations and production houses, newspapers, magazines and online media outlets met with Journalism & Mass Communication students.

“I came because there are some really great companies here looking for motivated students,” said April Nowicki, a newsgathering master’s student. “And I’m a motivated student looking for a great company.”

Nearly 20 employers from local media organizations came to discuss their internship programs with eager students hoping for employment.

“I started off myself as an intern and was lucky to find people who were interested in me and my work,” said Larry Ryckman, the Greeley Tribune local news editor who came to network with students. “I work very closely with my interns and three of my last hires went through our internship program.  We have had a great relationship with CU in the past, and I hope to continue that.”

For many students, the media mixer is their first exposure to job fairs and face-to-face meetings with potential employers.

“This is my first networking event,” said junior advertising major Katie Taylor. “I’m looking for an internship and this is a great opportunity to meet some local media companies.”

The environment of the fall mixer is informal and connects students directly with employers who are looking to hire interns or entry-level employees.

“There are no employer booth so it encourages conversation rather than monologues,” said Christine Mahoney, JMC’s internship and career coordinator. “Our hope is that students make a real connection with employers, showing them who they really are and what they’re capable of doing, without the barrier of a booth and banner.”

By Emilie Bierschenk/ JMC Graduate Student