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Michelle Herrera creates—it’s a passion that drives her. As a film, media and video studies major who opted for a second major in advertising and promotion, she is ready for an entrepreneurial path after graduation.

“The advertising program has allowed me to excel in the media and entertainment industry,” she says. “I have learned how to sell myself professionally and balance my abilities as a creator and business professional. The knowledge I’ve gained inside and outside of the classroom has given me greater confidence.”

And Herrera has been outside the classroom a lot.

Holding three internships, she has gained experience in many arenas. Her first internship at HOMTV honed her skills as a reporter and production crew member for live and pre-recorded televised programs. Her second internship at Overneath Creative saw Herrera leading a crew for a music video, which gave her an understanding of the logistics in creating content for clients. And during her most recent internship at Mezz Entertainment, she was able to work with multiple musicians to produce video content for their social media.

As a first-generation college student, Herrera has also created her own path in college, drawing on �������ϲʹ���ֱ�� resources and supportive faculty to craft her career.

“Being a first-generation college student means paving the way for higher education in your family. You plant this seed for higher education, water it, tend it, and watch yourself grow. Identifying as a first-generation student is a beautiful journey. It is also a journey we take somewhat alone, which means it feels lonely and sometimes scary without immediate family members who can provide guidance; however, �������ϲʹ���ֱ�� provided many resources including conversations with my professors about how to build my future career.”

The career Herrera wants involves being both a creator and a leader—eventually owning a media company which will celebrate the fact that it is run by a woman of color.

“One of my professors recently told me not to allow anyone to tone down my presence in any room I am in. I have learned the confidence to feel deserving of being in those rooms and know I am equipped for whatever lies ahead. I want other first-generation students and other students who identify as minority students to understand that �������ϲʹ���ֱ�� is an institution for them—they belong. No matter what path you create after your time at �������ϲʹ���ֱ��, remember your roots, light up every room with your presence, and share your skills and talents—the world needs us.”