Industry Connections with Caleb

Transcript

Let’s hear from Caleb, an alum who graduated in 2021 with his degree in Broadcast Journalism, Film, and Video Production. U of M offers students the opportunity to gain real world experience during college through its campus and community partnerships. Finding your community and making connections can benefit you post-graduation. Caleb, tell us all about it.

– Appreciate that, Alex. Growing up, watching TV was my favorite pastime. That’s why I joined my high school television program as a voice talent and a head anchor. During my U of M campus tour, I was struck by the glowing light and smooth sounds of WUMR, the campus radio station, and I knew that I wanted to be a Memphis Tiger. The U of M welcomed me with open arms. Between orientation, Frosh Camp, and the Weeks of Welcome, my Tiger spirit was at an all time high. I was also all about my education, and the School of Journalism and Strategic Media offered no shortage of extracurricular activities. I was able to gain experience as an on-air talent for WUMR, a writer for the campus newspaper, and a top reporter and producer for the campus TV station. By Sophomore year, I had produced my first feature league documentary. The film department had incredible professors and faculty members that gave me hands-on experience with professional gear, the opportunity to develop my own style of filmmaking, and most importantly, a community where I was able to work alongside other talented film majors. My experience is evidence of the power of community. My connections helped me land internships or radio news job with Memphis’s PBS affiliate, WKNO, and a full-time Digital Marketing Manager position with Peer Power. Those experiences also prepared me for a Media Specialist job at the fundraising organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I was fully employed with years of professional experiences before I even graduated. After graduation, my brother and I decided to start our very own film production company, Studio Suggs. We’ve made multiple award-winning indie films. Going to the U of M gave me lifelong friends, unforgivable experiences, and it’s made my childhood dreams a reality. Throwing it back at you, Alex.

– Caleb, thank you for sharing how the U of M prepared you for life after graduation. You were able to find your film community and make connections. Those connections helped you gain employment before graduating, and the experience you gained gave you the foundation to create your own production company. It’s incredible. Thank you again for sharing your story.