Reel Works College Panel and Grad Party

“Being a part of Reel Works and having events like the College Panel & Graduation Party is meaningful because it gives you a chance to see people from other labs and connect with them, and be there for an event that connects you all. You get a chance to be together with alumni and people you haven't seen in a while."  - Violet Gallo, Reel Works Alumni

The Reel Works College Panel and Grad Party was a success! Reflecting on its impact months later reminds us how valuable the initiative is to our community. Coming together to prepare students for their college experience is unique and inspiring.

There were various representatives from colleges that included Brooklyn College, NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and Hunter College. Those that reflected on their experiences at these schools included NYU Senior Associate Director, Admissions, Events, and Media, Courney Malenius, Brooklyn College student and Reel Works Youth Ambassador Lorenzo Martin, Hunter College recent graduate and Youth Ambassador Julia Canny, Hunter College grad student and Reel Works teaching artist Prisca Edwards, and Howard University alumni and Career Exploration Coordinator Zakiya Muhammad. MediaMKRS, our workforce development program, was also highlighted on this panel by Zakiya and our MediaMKRS Recruitment Coordinator Kayla Scott, who spoke about this career-enriching program. 

The event celebrated the graduating seniors of the Reel Works community. "Events like this make me feel like I'm part of a community where I can be myself and be supported." Ahamed Diallo remarked on the session. Those currently in high school had a chance to learn about potential schools they could attend and the opportunities awaiting them. They got a real perspective on what life could be like at these schools as well as insight into the admissions process. Other opportunities were highlighted such as the possibilities that MediaMKRS presents with our career exploration and workforce development programs. The representatives shared their experiences, and there was an opportunity for questions to be asked, where there was fruitful dialogue that occurred based on the participants’ questions. 

Both high school and college grads got the opportunity to be recognized and celebrated. College students were able to celebrate with their peers and share their own personal experiences. The event also allowed people to network and share with one another. It was an event well worth going to for both information and fun. 

This blog post was written by Julia Canny, a Reel Works Ambassador.