Nicole Thompson

1. What are some past jobs/positions you have held?

My current position is my first full time job in the industry. Prior to this, I worked as a freelancer filming and photographing events.

2. Were there any particular TCNJ courses/internships that helped jump-start your career?

I have had many internships. My first internship in the industry was with NBC Universal, on MSNBC’s “The Ed Show”. Following this I worked on CNN’s docu-series “Chicagoland”. It was on this show I received credits for each episode as a researcher and I also served as a post intern. Afterwards, I was very fortunate to be selected for the TV Academy Internship in Hollywood. It was here that I was given the opportunity to work directly with Emmy Award-winning producer Stan Brooks. I learned so much under his guidance and to this day I still reach out to him for advice. He has even connected me with others in the industry such as the SVP of Lifetime Original Movies, which opened the doors for me to do a pop-up internship at Lifetime. While interning, I worked in the office doing script coverage and also as a production assistant on Lifetime film, “The Whitney Houston Story”. Lastly, this summer, prior to getting hired to work at SAG-AFTRA, I interned at the Cannes Film Festival with the Creative Mind Group. It was here I was able to learn distribution first-hand in the film market. Personally I think all of these internships collectively helped me obtain work. When you work consistently on your craft, it shows that you’re serious and people love to see that.

3. What are your favorite memories of your time at TCNJ?

Traveling to the Tribecca Film Festival with the Communication department. I also enjoyed working as a web designer for TCNJ filming and editing special events and athletic games, being a part of the Student Film Union and creating documentaries every summer as a part of the TCNJ MUSE Program. I was very lucky to be selected three years in a row.

4. What are the most important skills you learned that you use today?

Some useful skills that I learned at TCNJ are networking and going on informational interviews. These skills are very important because the film and television industry is all about building and maintaining relationships.

5. Do you have any advice for current TCNJ students trying to break into the business?

Don’t give up on your dreams and be patient. If you don’t get accepted into the program, job, internship, or grad school you want right away it doesn’t mean you are not talented. It only means it isn’t your time. I remember graduating and I didn’t have anything lined up for me right away in terms of work or school. Then, when I’d least expected it, I got the call that I was chosen for the TV Academy internship in Hollywood.

Dream big and don’t let anyone tell you your dream is impossible. I’m 24 and I’ve already filmed video blogs, and documentaries in a total of 23 countries. If there is anything you want to do in life you can achieve it, as long as you work at it and don’t give up.

Lastly, build up your network. Find someone who will mentor you and introduce you to their friends as well. Surround yourself with people who are like-minded and collaborate with them.