Field Notes: The Media School Travel Blog

During my time in Los Angeles, I have two internships in the entertainment industry.

The first is with Canary House Productions, which is Julianne Hough’s production company. Here, I get to learn about the beginning stages of production development, which is great considering I love to plan and organize things.

The company is very small — other than Julianne Hough, it’s just my supervisor Morgan and me. Therefore, they have both entrusted me with many tasks and responsibilities for the company. On a typical day, I work on script coverage. I have also been able to give my own opinions on current projects, create activity calendars for the office, organize Sundance film schedules and participate in client meetings, such as pitching actresses and directors for our upcoming projects. I was even asked to help pick out future audition scenes for Julianne.

It feels great to be so involved with the company and so trusted by my superiors. The company has also created a wonderfully tightknit family bond for its workers. Every time I show up to work, I am greeted with hugs and smiles. Everyone is so loving and passionate about their work, which makes for an uplifting environment each day.

There are also fun perks to this internship that simply add to the Hollywood experience. I briefly met Nina Dobrev when she stopped by for a meeting, and I celebrated our company’s successes by drinking mimosas with Julianne. These experiences have both humbled and excited me when it comes to working with talent in the future.

My second internship this semester is with the audience/ticketing service 1iota Productions, specifically for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Having worked for Radio-Television Services at IU, I love being behind the scenes on set. I knew it would be difficult to find an internship on an actual set, so I am grateful to work on the set of a popular television show every day.

My day at “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” includes setting up the venue, lining audience members up outside on Hollywood Boulevard, scanning their tickets, providing them with wristbands, leading them to their seats and to musical performances, and answering any questions they might have.

One of the best parts of this job is meeting people from all around the world who have different stories to share. It’s an eye-opening experience that has helped me learn more about myself and about life in general. Lucky for me, I also get to act as an audience member and watch the live tapings. I have seen some hilarious interviews and some amazing musical performances so far this semester. I also get to talk with other production crew members and shadow their behind-the-scenes positions based on my interests.

Both my internships this semester are tailored to my interests and hopes for the future. I am still trying to figure out if I want to work on the development/management side of television/films or the hands-on, behind-the-scenes side of things. Therefore, these internships give me the opportunity to explore both of these areas, learn about the inner workings of the industry and have fun and exciting experiences each and every day.