Catelyn Blackmon
On Feb. 26 Media Girls Network hosted a workshop event to help student journalists sharpen their skills to prepare for a career in the entertainment industry.
Media Girls Network took a trip to the main campus of Troy University in Troy, Alabama to be a part of a workshop hosted by Troy University’s National Association of Black Journalists. The workshop consisted of a day full of career enlightenment and real conversations.
Jelisa Raquel started off the workshop by presenting a slideshow presentation that unfolded many stories of how her career took off. She shared stories of her experience at her high school newspaper, getting rejected from her college newspaper, and how she became the CEO of Media Girls Network.
Raquel shared with students the things she did in college, and the things she wished she could have done. She emphasized that it is important to take advantage of social media and start showcasing skills on your social accounts that relate to your future career goals to build a digital resume.
After her presentation, there was a panel. Alongside Jelisa was Patricia Bolden, Taronda Gibbons, Ashley Millon, and Shenelle Simone. These women shared their
stories of how they got to where they are now.
Media Girls Network has been the hot topic on the campus of Troy University since the workshop. Students and faculty are wondering when Media Girls Network will return.
“As times are evolving, it is important for every journalist to have a variety of skill sets in the different areas of journalism, and entertainment is one of them,” said The Vice President of NABJ, Ayanna Williams.
“This workshop impacted students positively beyond the expected industry tips and advice. Every panelist displayed a genuine and sincere interest in our students' success. Students received real-world, real-life stories of professional failures and successes along with tips on what not to do as well as what to do. Students obtained information often not covered in the classroom or noted in any textbook,” said Interim Director of Hall School of Journalism and Communication, Amanda Diggs, Ph.D.
During the workshop, participants ate chicken, waffles, and red velvet cinnamon rolls provided by Sherman Smoothie Cafe. Raquel encouraged students to make sacrifices for their career now. She explained that sometimes you will have to miss out, but investing in yourself and your career will all be worth it in the long run.
“Sacrifice now, not later,” Raquel said.