This past weekend with Vanderbilt on Madison Avenue was definitely an experience that I will never forget, and I am so beyond thankful for the opportunity to participate. To summarize the trip, it was almost like an extended networking event but even better. We were able to hear from some of the most successful figures in the entertainment industry, many of them who are actually Vanderbilt alumni. Getting the chance to hear their stories and pathways to success was extremely inspiring, and I learned valuable tips that I will be able to keep for a lifetime. Despite the snow and hardships of navigating through the streets and metros of New York City, the trip was absolutely amazing.
Although I can honestly say that I loved the entire trip, my favorite part would have to be our visit to Viacom. Right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Time Square, Viacom houses some of the largest and most prominent television networks. We were able to get a sneak peek at the Viacom building (which was amazing), and meet with the executive vice president of MTV, Jim Balbirer. Through him, I learned some amazing things that I think will continue to really benefit me in my professional life. Not only were we able to gain valuable information, see amazing business buildings and build great networks, we also had some fun. One of the most random but exciting parts of the trip was being interviewed by Tim Gunn after randomly passing him on the street. In addition, we also got to see the New York headquarters of Facebook, which was absolutely mind-blowing.
Participating in the VMA program was so much more than a learning opportunity. It helped me further pave the way to my future as well as give me an inside look at the media and entertainment industry. I truly believe that all of us who participated got the experience of a lifetime, and it was not something I would have ever been able to do if it wasn’t for the program. I cannot recommend participating in Vandy on Madison Avenue enough, and would not have rather spent my spring break any other way!
-Mackenzie Smith