How WICT Empowered Me to Achieve My Career Goals

TV and film has always played a huge role in my life, ever since I was a little girl. Both provided me with a sense of wonder, role models, and an escape when life seemed to be too tough. I knew from an early age that I wanted to share my passion for cinema with other kids and people around the world, which is why I wanted to pursue a career in entertainment. I decided to pack up everything and move from the Bay Area to Los Angeles in 2017 to turn my dream into a reality.

Through countless applications, LinkedIn messages, and cold calling, I finally received an opportunity to be an intern at a below-the-line talent agency. I knew being a 27-year-old intern, I needed to apply myself quickly in order to reach my own expectations. On my first day, I was tasked to cover an assistant’s desk with minimal guidance. I learned very quickly this position required a broad skill set. Each day was a new experience, from grocery shopping to covering reception and assistants’ desks. It helped me develop the thick skin I believed I needed to survive this industry. As far back as I can remember, my parents instilled a resilient work ethic in me and the idea that there will always be someone smarter, tougher and better who is going after the same opportunities. After grinding for three months and proving myself, I received an offer to join the agency full-time, but deep down, I knew this wasn’t the path for me. After much introspection and financial consideration, I knew I had to explore what else was out there.

A few months into my job search, I kept telling myself to stay the course and stay determined, as I knew that I would eventually be rewarded for my persistence. I often thought about the stable paycheck I forfeited when I left my internship, but knew deep down that I was doing the right thing. Finally, I received the call that changed everything. I was offered a contract position at NBCUniversal; I would be the Coordinator for the Digital Products/Content Distribution team.

My supervisor, Monica Williams (VP, Digital Products Business Operations) became an instant role model/mentor. She was involved in many organizations to support women’s career growth within the industry. To this day, one of the most important things she did for me was introduce me to WICT. After attending my first mixer in Burbank and the LEA awards, I knew I wanted to get more involved. Being around women who were so inspirational and kind heightened my passion for this industry.

After joining WICT and becoming Secretary for the WICT SoCal Board, I met a few wonderful women who I can easily say have inspired me. Not only have they become my friends, but they’ve become mentors of mine who are eager to help with my career path and for that, I am very grateful. One of them is Jennifer Miles. She took me under her wing and began to help me with formulating the next steps of my career path. From looking over my resume, to submitting me for open positions, she was determined to help me in any way she could. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to have someone like her in my corner. Through her, I met Shannon Woodward, who just like Jennifer took a chance on me and submitted me for an opportunity at CBS Interactive. I’m happy to say, I’m now with CBSi as an Associate Marketing Manager for Originals.

I can’t wait to provide that same mentorship and guidance to another aspirational woman one day, and am truly thankful to everyone who’s helped me along the way. This is what WICT stands for! Helping and mentoring other women to be the best they can be. I’m so proud to be a part of this organization!

By Paola Velasquez