Vandy in Arts & Media

This community gives access to resources, events, and career advice for students interested in careers in the arts or media. We encourage you to use this space to help you make an informed decision about the area(s) you want to engage in for volunteering, internships, and your career.

Welcome!

The Vandy in Arts & Media Community encompasses anything from entertainment to film, graphic design to theater, and public relations to music business. Access resources, events, and career advice specific to this industry interest. In this career community, you will tap into a unique network of alumni and employers, and learn how to leverage this network to find opportunities in any creative industry.

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Vandy in Arts & Media Toolkit

Recruiting timelines, career paths, quick start resources, and more.

Download the Toolkit

Your Community Contacts

  • Yasja Hemmings

    Yasja Hemmings

    Career Coach

  • Lindsey Carroll

    Lindsey Carroll

    Employer Relations Specialist

Drop In Hours

Arts & Media Specific Drop In Hours

Do you have industry-specific questions? Drop in hours are a great place to have your application materials reviewed, understand industry recruiting timelines, and learn how to get connected to top employers in the arts and media industry!

  • These drop ins are similar to standard drop-ins except they will be reserved for students interested in arts & media related industries.
  • No appointment needed and these conversations can last up to 15 minutes.
  • View drop-in hours.

Note: Drop ins are not held when classes are not in session (holiday breaks, exam days, inclement weather, etc).

Vandy in arts and media

General Resources

Job & Internship Resources

Recruitment Timeline

Arts and Media related industries tend to follow the ‘Just in Time’ staffing model where they only hire employees when they need them which results in shorter recruitment and hiring timelines. Some companies have talent acquisition, but actual recruiting in creative industries is rare. Therefore, networking is important! This means, it is very possible for opportunities to be posted seemingly overnight. Here are some tips when considering the recruitment process for Arts and Media:

  • Look often and regularly!
  • According to Princeton University, Arts & Media industries recruit approximately November to May, but please take this with a grain of salt as a company can post a position at any time of the year depending on hiring needs

Hiring Takeaways to Keep in Mind (According to LinkedIn):

  1. On average, the hiring process lasts three to six weeks.
  2. Factors determining the hiring process length include the position level, number of applications, and hiring manager’s experience level.
  3. Recruiters and hiring managers consider the candidate’s experiences and how those relate to the position when deciding.
  4. Wait a few days to a week before contacting the hiring team for an update unless they give you a specific timeline.
  5. Connect with recruiters during the application and interview stages to receive insider updates on the hiring process.

Internships

Employers in creative fields typically start their summer intern hiring process a semester early (beginning Jan/Feb), while some larger companies may hire in the late fall (usually around October). Summer internships are the most common in this field, and while fall/spring internships are not as widely offered, they may be less competitive. Finally, it is important to know that some internships in this field are only for post-grads (not undergraduate students), as this is a common method to fill pipelines.

FAQs

  • What Is the Best Way to Get Started in Creative Industries?

    There’s no one correct way to get started. Most importantly, know you don’t have to have a “traditional” creative background or set experience to excel in these fields. All majors are welcome in many of these careers. A great way to experiment in this industry is to apply for internships and use that working opportunity to discover the field. No two companies are the same, or have the same clients, so be sure to do your research and learn more about your specific company of interest. Make sure that your values and expectations align with whatever you’re interested in and don’t be afraid to reach out to people at the company to learn more!

  • How Can I Stand out in This Industry?

    With creative internships and jobs, applications will likely be creative, allowing you to express yourself in an authentic way. So be sure to showcase your individuality and be yourself! Finally, remember that in creative industries your brand is important. Be active on social media, establish your personal brand, create a portfolio, and connect with industry leaders.

  • What Skills Do Employers Look For?

    Companies in this industry look for students who are especially great at adapting. Creative industries are extremely fast-paced, and can change at any time. Demonstrating that you are able to handle the unknown is a must! Many companies will assess candidates through behavioral interview questions. See our interviewing tips here to prepare.

  • How Important Is Networking in This Industry?

    Networking is imperative for those interested in creative jobs. To start, try attending some Career Center events, workshops, or fairs and connect with the speakers and attendees at that event. This will help you get exposure to a well-rounded network, and you will be able to see the future trajectory in your career. Be sure to also make a point to reach out to fellow alum on LinkedIn! Alum can be a great advocate for you in the industry and provide a more in-depth look into what a company or industry looks like!