By Crystal Franks
With the semester wrapping up, many students are anticipating the transition from college to career.
Ball State alum Zachary Perlinski, who graduated in 2011, presented to the College of Communication, Information, and Media students Tuesday afternoon.
Perlinski discussed his journey and gave advice to students who are interested in the communications field.
During his time at Ball State, Perlinski participated in the WIPB-TV program “Connections Live” as an executive producer.
He won the 2010 David Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship for “Chorus Angelorum: Bringing Light to Gary, Indiana.” Perlinski’s immersive experience also helped him get a writing internship on “Late Show with David Letterman.”
Currently, Perlinski works at Harpo Studios Inc. as a production assistant for the Oprah Winfrey Network program “Super Soul Sunday.”
Perlinski’s work ethic did not change from his time at college to his job at Harpo Studios.
Perlinski said his typical work week is somewhere between 95 and 100 hours.
“I really worked hard [at Ball State] and I work hard at Harpo,” Perlinski said. “There were a lot of nights I did not go to sleep because of ‘Connections.’”
For some freshmen in the audience, obtaining an internship might be challenging, but Perlinski had advice.
“That’s when you need to network,” Perlinski said. “I guarantee there are companies that will take you. Don’t just look at the glamorous internships. Sometimes you think you have a plan, and it could be the opposite.”
There are four things CCIM students should have, Perlinski said.
These include an updated résumé, website, demo reel and business cards.
This was news to a freshman news journalism and telecommunications major Bri Kirkham.
“I learned about building a résumé and website,” Kirkham said. “I’ve never thought about that before. I’m definitely going to get business cards. I’m going to take advantage of opportunities offered.”
As for seniors, Perlinski advised them to take a few days after graduation to relax, but look for a career in advance.
“You need to digest college, take a few days,” Perlinski said. “Look for jobs early as January. Don’t be afraid to take risks.”
Associate Dean of CCIM, Lori Byers, said Perlinski gave great advice and it is important for alumni to come back to the school to share their experiences.
“It raises their value of their degree because you are paying it forward increasing knowledge,” Byers said. “The more experience you have and the harder you work, the more you are likely to succeed. You have distinguished yourself from other graduates.”
As for preparation for the workforce, Perlinski said Ball State is doing just fine.
“Ball State prepared me so very well,” Perlinski said.
