Digital Film and TV Career Map

Awareness

First Year

• Understand that effective communication is essential in all industries to maintain relationships and convey information to diverse audiences.
• Recognize that media occupations are projected to grow significantly, with a projected 14 percent increase by 2030.
• Learn about the requirement to complete a minor as part of the degree program.
• Develop an awareness of the highest ethical and professional standards expected of communication leaders.

Second Year

• Identify the core technical components of the field, including lighting, shooting, editing, and sound recording.
• Become aware of the different roles within a production team, such as technical directors, videographers, and scriptwriters.
• Understand how an integrated curriculum can be tailored to match your personal interests and professional goals.

Last Years

• Recognize the value of hands-on involvement and student-led media in preparing for professional placement.
• Stay informed about graduation requirements and the synthesis of skills required to lead digital film projects.
• Understand the professional expectations of the industry by following department news and events.

Exploration

First Year

• Explore the School of Communication’s facilities and learn about the "moving image" through introductory coursework.
• Investigate student media opportunities through JagMedia, which includes JagTV, The Vanguard, and WJGR 97.1 The Prowl.
• Explore campus through the online virtual tour to familiarize yourself with production spaces.

Second Year

• Join concentration-specific student organizations like JagMedia to build leadership skills and produce original content.
• Participate in student-operated media projects, which are open to current students regardless of their major.
• Attend guest speaker events or departmental seminars to network with communication leaders in a global society.

Last Years

• Connect with professional organizations such as the American Advertising Federation or the Public Relations Student Society of America.
• Research career paths in diverse sectors, including nonprofits, educational institutions, and private agencies.
• Network professionally by engaging with department groups to find job leads and career mentors.

Preparation

First Year

• Focus on building foundational critical thinking skills to become an independent media professional.
• Start participating in JagMedia to begin building a portfolio of student-produced content.
• Establish a strong academic record to qualify for "exceptional" internship opportunities later in the program.

Second Year

• Secure an internship with local media partners like Fox 10 News (WALA), WKRG News 5, or NBC 15 News.
• Apply for a position on the ESPN+ Broadcast Team to gain experience in live sports production, from camera operation to booth editing.
• Work with organizations like JagNation TV or the Mobile County Public Schools TV Network to gain professional-grade exposure.

Last Years

• Complete a professional internship to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting and build professional connections.
• Finalize a professional reel or portfolio that showcases your ability to produce, direct, and edit film and television programs.
• Utilize "Contact Us" resources to seek final career advice from faculty experts before graduation.