TyNisha Lewis
1. Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your professional work
My name is TyNisha Lewis, but I'm best known as Ty. I'm currently employed as a contract consultant for various entertainment companies. I get a variety of projects and assignments, some of which are not related to public relations. I'd work for a certain department or executive if they needed me to.
2. Why did you choose to go to CSUN? What inspired you to pursue a career in PR?
My family is from The Valley. I've always heard good things about CSUN and had aspired to work in the entertainment industry. CSUN seemed to be the most accessible option for my professional path. I was a transfer student from Pierce College and then continued my education at CSUN.
3. What inspired you to pursue a career in PR?
Since I was a kid, I've been fascinated with entertainment and pop culture. I knew I wanted to be involved in the entertainment industry in some way. As I gained more experience in public relations, my desire to be creative in my writing grew. I knew I wanted to work in public relations because of the journalism classes available at CSUN, such as the TV and film courses.
4. What is the most exciting project you have been a part of?
The most exciting project that I’ve been involved with would definitely be my WBTV internship that I learned from a CSUN classmate through Facebook. It was a great internship that opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I was involved with social media, tracking coverage, pitching, and writing character descriptions for TV shows and their possible castings throughout my internship. I made an effort to connect with the people that were around. I went to coffee meetings with executives outside of my department, as well as employees and interns. I attended every event held outside of my internship because I wanted to expand my network and gain exposure to the industry. Making relationships is very important, I'm still in touch with the people I met four years ago.
5. Where do you see yourself in the upcoming years?
My goal is to continue growing as a professional. I'm involved with a range of professional, non-profit, and other organizations. I'd want to help other young people, such as college graduates, by creating a program that would lead them on the right career path.
6. Do you have any advice for students who are pursuing a career in public relations?
I had to make a lot of sacrifices, such as doing a lot of free job and volunteering. Some people may not like it, but sometimes you have to do what you have to do to be successful. You must go at your own speed and do what is best for you and your professional goals. I got my internship through social media, so definitely use sites like Linkedin or Facebook. As I said before, forming relationships is essential since they may be able to assist you in achieving your career goals.
7. How would you describe your typical day?
I'm currently working as an executive assistant to a high-level executive. My boss supervises Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and other channels. My primary job is to ensure that everything runs smoothly for him, which includes making sure he attends his meetings and that everything is in order. Multitasking is something I have to do regularly.