With guidance from faculty and staff in the Student Professional Development Center, strategic communications major Paige Hullett '16 combined her interest in public relations with a passion for acting to secure a summer internship with Davidson and Choy Publicity in Los Angeles.
When Paige Hullett a strategic communications major from Indianapolis, learned of an internship opportunity at Davidson and Choy Publicity from her Elon in LA advisor, she became extremely focused on pursuing her love of acting as a career.
During her time as an intern, Hullett attended opening-night red carpet events and worked closely with clients at one of the leading firms in entertainment. Those experiences ignited her passion and guided her to sign with East Coast Talent Agency, where she will continue to build a career as an actress.
Hullett is one of three people featured during the 2015-16 academic year in a series of E-net profiles on the experiences of students and alumni who use the Student Professional Development Center to find job and internship openings, obtain help with graduate school placements, prepare for interviews, and improve job applications with guidance from professionals.
She answered questions recently from the Student Professional Development Center about her experience:
Tell me about the company and your role as an intern.
Established in 1971 by Judi Davidson, Davidson, and Choy Publicity is one of Los Angeles’ leading firms specializing in publicity for performing arts, entertainment, culture, restaurants and special events. They have experience with a broad range of clients including on-going organizations, Los Angeles and national touring productions, book authors, major arts festivals, restaurants and special events. As an intern, I attended and worked opening-night red carpet events for shows while managing press tickets. Back at the office, I answered the phone, serving as a liaison between client and supervisor. For each production, I created media sheets and “books” for clients of all show coverage in addition to tracking and clipping reviews for shows.
How did your interest in the internship develop?
When I was applying for internships, I knew I wanted to combine my interests of public relations and acting. My Elon in LA advisor showed me Davidson and Choy, and it seemed like the perfect match. I researched the company, had my interview and knew it was where I wanted to be!
What did/have you learned from the experience?
I was nervous to begin my internship at first, but as time went on I became more confident and comfortable at the office. My other colleagues were extremely helpful and supportive, and helped me grow tremendously throughout my three months there. Going into my internship, I was still not sure what I wanted to do post-grad, and the internship helped me realize what I did, and didn’t like about specific work environments. I had many interests going into the internship, and working all the different shows made me realize that I wanted to direct my focus fully to acting.
Who did you work with in the Student Professional Development Center to prepare for your internship, and what help did you receive?
The career center was very helpful, and I met with them to review and polish my resume, LinkedIn profile and cover letter. They also gave me interview and networking advice. And helped me with my website.
What recommendations would you share with other students about the Student Professional Development Center?
I work as an ambassador at the Student Professional Development Center, so I see firsthand the benefits of using the services and resources that offered. It is NEVER too early to start thinking about your career goals and making a plan for the future. The office has a plethora of resources, and the advisors have years of experiences with tools and advice they can pass down to the students. I can confidently say that the Student Professional Development Center is one of the most valuable resources on Elon’s campus, and it would be a shame for students not to utilize it during your time at Elon. Everyone in the office is friendly and excited to help you reach your professional goals!