City of Angels

City of Angels by Ozomatli

While in LA, Matt Rhodes from Mandalay, talked to us about having a pitch - 20 seconds to sell yourself to an individual. I've read about this before as an elevator speech. Most recently, in my social media and marketing class, we have been talking about social branding. In class, we were asked to write a short, shorter, and shortest version to introduce ourselves. I imagine that short is what I have on my LinkedIn account, shorter would be my pitch/elevator speech and shortest would be my tag line on my Google+ or Pinterst. Here are my examples:

Short (LinkedIn Profile): 

When I enrolled in college at Ohio University as a media management major, I knew there would be many career paths I could chose. After thinking about the options, analyzing my strengths and remembering my background in theatre, I decided that working in casting would be the best place for me. My education in the classroom has allowed me to understand the creative side of the industry but my business minor has allowed me to learn more about the laws and regulations. I have learned the importance of clear communication, attention to details, project planning and time management. My various jobs through the university have allowed me to not only learn about myself but also how to work with many different types of people in unique situations. I love to be challenged daily and in an environment where I can be learning new things every day. I'm self-motivated, driven and believe that there is no better fit for my career path then a career in casting.

Shorter (Pitch/Elevator Speech): 
I wrote this one for my final exam for my LA trip. It's directed at Nancy Robinson, who works for The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, who offers internships in casting. It's written as if I had just moved to LA and was trying to work for her.

Hi Nancy, my name is Dori Branch. I just moved here from Ohio. I love all the work that you have put into the internship program through the Academy of Televsion Arts & Sciences. I would personally love the opportunity to be a casting intern in your program. I have a background in theatre, a love for people and learning new things. I like to be challenged daily and I think that I would be a good intern for the casting department because my passion for casting as a career is something I've very strongly invested in for my future.

Shortest (Social Media Profiles):

I'm a highly motivated (soon-to-be) recent graduate of Ohio University who wants to pursue a career in casting. I love to be challenged every day and have wanted to work in casting for as long as I can remember.

I think it's important to remember that these speeches are to help sell yourself but once you know the company, it's also important to include, not only what they can do for you, but what you can do for them. What are you bringing to the table that is different and important?

Ready to go back!

Countdown to graduation: 38 days!

California Love

California Love by Tupac

If that isn't an attractive thumbnail, I'm not sure what is #sarcasm

Speaking of hashtags, follow me on Twitter!

Walking in LA

Walking in LA by Missing Persons (1982)

I applied for an internship in LA for this summer with a casting department. Probably one of the most nerve-wrecking things I've done in awhile. Mostly nerve-wrecking because I want it more than anything. It would literally be perfect for me. So here's hoping - keep your fingers crossed! What's most exciting about this internship, next to being my dream job, is that it will be in LA. It would give me a chance to actually live in the city and experience it as more than a tourist or guest.

I'm excited to see what happens especially after some of the hoops I had to jump through to get it submitted on time. To say my luck hasn't been great recently is an understatement. I went to upload my information to the internship website and the webpage was down. I'm sure you can image my slight panic as I emailed the administrator in hopes that they could fix the problem. They did. But then, the same day, I get a speeding ticket. And I had to jump my car 2 days later. And I spilled coffee over the CDs I was playing for a dance competition. Everything was fine, it all worked out, but I'm hoping this isn't the path I'm going down since it's the end of my college career and I'd love to go out on a high note. Plus, I hope this luck doesn't effect my internship application.

I'm definitely someone who believes in making your own luck. I believe that everything happens for a reason and it's all about who you know and how you monitor yourself. When I say that I mean to say that it's important to hold yourself to the highest standard you have of people. It's not about being fake, it's about adopting a lifestyle. We are constantly hearing "don't post it online if it's something you wouldn't want your grandma to see." I've never had to think about something like that when I'm posting something online. The lifestyle I lead is one of professionalism. This can be a good thing and a bad thing.

For the good, I don't have to pretend to be anyone I'm not. What you see is what you get. I'm not about the drama and posting about my life to everyone. There is a level of privacy I like to maintain. For the bad though, it's sometimes harder for people my age to understand the importance of reputation - something that I've always valued about myself. It doesn't hurt that I've also been friends with my mom on social media since I got a Facebook.

So, this entry definitely got a little off topic. It's just one of those days where I have so much to say and who better to share it with then my readers (AKA my mom, her friends and my professors)? Anyways, the point being, make your own luck, lead a lifestyle you can be proud of and keep your fingers crossed that I'll be in LA this June with my dream internship!

LA LA LAnd

(c) Mike Mulig

La La Land by Demi Lovato

Three days and I miss LA so much. I miss the adventures and being with awesome people 24/7. I'm actually an introvert so this feeling is rather new to me. I'm very outgoing (but yes, I'm an introvert, it's possible) but when I'm around people for periods of time, I tend to get worn out. However, what was great about LA was that even though I was around people 24/7, I wasn't trying. Those people were truly and genuinely my friends and all the adventures we went on were just so amazing that we all had a great time just being together. It was great to see people's true personalities and realize that is why LA felt so right - because it felt so natural.

I guess Ohio seems lonely in comparison. Everyone is trying to just survive these last 2 months. My roommates and friends are interviewing for grad school, while others are getting job offers. It's amazing to see so many people about to jump into a new part of their lives. Until this past week, I wasn't sure where mine would lead. Nothing is ever set in stone but it's nice to know where I plan to be within the next year.

I kept saying that I was still soaking it in - and I am. I keep posting photos or looking through other people's pictures and seeing all the amazing things we did. While I was experiencing, I didn't realize how amazing so many of the things we did were. Some of them were truly once in a lifetime chances. Some people will never get the chance to even go to LA but I got to meet with producers, go to live filmings and stand were some of the most amazing icons ever stood. I'm not done soaking it in and I hope I never am - I hope there are still so many more amazing things to experience that when I look back, it will all seem like a beautiful dream.

Letter to LA

View of Warner Brothers from Universal Studios

Letter to LA by Joe Ely

I've been home for 24 hours now and it's feels like California was a lifetime ago. I've learned so much in the past week that I'm still absorbing most of it. Every activity I've done with in the past few hours I've somehow linked to being in LA. When I spend money, I'm thinking about if it's really worth it or if I could use the money better out in LA. When I'm doing menial activities, I'm thinking about what makes a good intern.

I was talking to my mom yesterday when I got off the plane. She reminded me that for the past 22 years, I had always said that I never wanted to live in LA. And she's right. I had just recently opened up to the idea of living in California and this week opened my eyes to the idea of seriously considering it and even doing it. I met so many amazing people, had so many great experiences - it's hard to ignore that. When people spoke to us about passion, hustle, and reputation, you could see that these characteristics are ones that they exemplify and look for others to do the same. It made me want to try harder and be better. It made my passion grow even stronger to be surrounded by others who were so passionate.

Bye for now California

Before we left I really hadn't had my life planned out more then 6 months after graduation. I knew that I was going to move home, find a job, save some money and then figure out what is next. Now, depending on if I get an internship I'm applying for in LA, I might be moving out there in June. It's quick, yes, but it's something I want so badly and a week ago, I didn't even realize how badly I wanted it. LA made my passion even stronger. If I don't get the internship, I'm still going to be moving home to save money so that I can move out to California as soon as possible. It's a place that opened my eyes to competition and trying harder to be better then you were yesterday.

Only 54 days until graduation. Only 54 more days until I can go back to LA. It's so strange to think about how a place can sweep you off your feet in such a short amount of time. Maybe "strange" isn't the right word - I prefer "magical".

Hollywood's Not America

Hollywood's Not America by Ferras

Through this trip I've been able to narrow down more specifically what I want to do and it's either to work in casting or a talent agency. Yesterday was exciting because it started to feel like that all came together. We were able to meeting Rocco Hindmann, an OU alum, who works with "below-the-line" talent. The one thing that really hit home was when he talked about reputation and how it's everything. I've had a similar outlook on life and my past jobs and to hear how important it is in LA, especially for an agency, it made me realize even more how much I would fit in as an agent here.

Our next OU alum was Matt Rhodes, a producer for Mandalay. Matt was amazing. He gave each of us a personalized idea of what we should do when we get to LA to reach our goals. He was also the first person to talk about having a pitch which was something I learned about in school last semester. Everything comes full circle. Matt also reiterated how, again, it all comes back to passion. Be the person to come early and stay late and understand that this career is a lifestyle. This is something I came to terms with a long time ago and that's why I haven't changed my career path, I want this lifestyle.

Outside the Dolby Theatre

Tiara in the theatre

Theatre was my first love so getting a tour of the Dolby Theatre was a dream come true. Beautiful theatre with a great alum and so many good stories. This trip has helped me realize how grateful I am to be a bobcat. Our alum are amazing people. This was proven again last night at our screening where we got to meet some more alum who took time out of their own schedule to come hang out with us. So many connections and instant friends. I've been so grateful for this trip and this amazing opportunity to meet some of the most wonderful people. I always knew what networking was but this week has been the easiest way to network. I just hope that a few years down the road, I'm also able to help young bobcats. The bobcat family is so amazing and helpful and I'm so glad to be a part of it!

Inside the Hard Rock Cafe

LA Made Me

LA Made Me by Alexz Johnson

Every day I keep thinking that LA can't possibly get more exciting and then it proves me wrong. Every day tops the day before - starting today with the Jim Henson studio. There is so much history on that lot and it was incredible to see where the magic happens. It used to be Charlie Chaplin's studio and still, so many magical things are happening there. We didn't get to go to the creature studio but there were still chances with us to see and play with famous puppets as well as new technology. My dad has always loved Jim Henson and the muppets so this was really an amazing experience I wish I could have brought my dad along for. My sister was a fan of the show Dinosaurs and it was fun being able to see some of the original puppets from that!

One of the most exciting parts was meeting with Don Murphy. He's a guy who got his break early in his career and never stopped moving forward. I really appreciated his passion for what he does even though he has done it for so long as well as his drive to keep doing more and do it better than before.

The most exciting part of the day was going to the Academy of Television Art and Science. We have known about internships through the Academy but I kept holding back on applying for one or seriously looking into one because this summer my friend is getting married and I didn't want to have to fly back right after moving out here. However, after talking with Nancy today (the internship coordinator), I'm really motivated to apply now because of how understanding she seems. Plus, she is looking for people with the passion I think I can give. It's exciting because everything else has seemed like a dream but this internship seems so real and has given me real motivation to keep going and move here.

And last, but not least, we got to go to a live taping of Mike & Molly. One of the more exciting parts for the pure fact of meeting Melissa McCarthy, one of my heroes since she was on Gilmore Girls. It's great to see such a talented and funny actor really grow and have her own show. Being part of a live audience as a media student, however, was one of the most difficult things I've ever done! There were so many things to focus on the set technical wise that I missed a few jokes the first few times because I was so caught up in what everyone was doing backstage instead of paying attention to the actors. I think that's how I know that this is something that I want to do and want to keep learning about because I know I don't know everything but I want too. 

We Got More Bounce In California

We Got More Bounce (In California) by Soul Kid #1

Sometimes I think the world would be better if everyone was just nicer. Weird coming from a girl who is currently in LA where the stereotype is rough, rude and just flat out mean. What's funny is, this stereotype is exactly that, a stereotype. I'm sure there are some people who fall into this stereotype but I've been lucky enough to meet people who defy these descriptors.

DreamWorks' Oscars

DreamWorks is a magical place in and of itself. It's campus is huge and comfortable with secret rooms, kitchens with coffee and a dining hall that offers free breakfast and lunch for the staff. Don't forget the outdoor spaces with benches, coy ponds and lots of greenery. The people are just as amazing as the facility. We were fortunate enough to be able to talk to some of the staff of DreamWorks who hit a few home runs with some of their advice.

If there is one thing I've learned about LA and the people at DreamWorks, it's to go with the flow because sometimes when chances arrive, they don't always look like chances. I've heard stories over and over again about grabbing every opportunity because you don't know where it will lead. Also, to be a good employee who takes advantage of these opportunities, it's important that you don't over promise and then under deliver. You have to keep with your word but also, don't lie about what you can and can't do. Ask for help when you need it and be proactive - as others if they need help with a project.

We also got to meet with an OU alum who produces and directs on a pretty popular show, Cougartown. He was so down to earth, relatable and, like the other OU alums we've met, offered some great advice not just about LA but the job. Randall Winston gave lots of technical advice which I really appreciated because I know that my background in that isn't as strong as someone with a video production degree. It's hard to keep up sometimes with technical terms but Randall made me want to learn more on my own. I think that, more than anything, the time we got with Randall was motivation to keep learning on your own and work hard because what he is doing is the dream.

The rest of the day was bonding time with the group - which I loved. All the alum keep saying, "Stay in contact with everyone, even the people you are sitting next too." I think this is great advice but to be honest, I only knew a few people on this trip before we came out here. We haven't had a lot of time to socialize because we're networking with the people in LA. We were able to visit the Hollywood sign which was a chance for everyone to relax and I think that really helped. Everyone was helping take pictures, jumping in on pictures and genuinely having a good time. It was a highlight of my day - as well as getting stuck in an elevator.

Some of the people I was stuck in the elevator with

At the time, nothing could be less funny. Stuck on an elevator for 30 minutes or so with 16 other people. However, now, it's one thing I will always remember about this trip that will make me laugh. We found ways to distract ourselves by acting out the Cougartown script we had just read over with Randall. It was helpful to get our minds off of being stuck and we really all worked together and were able to tolerate each other in the closest space I've ever been in. It was also a pretty exciting way to end the day and something we all were able to bond over.

Girl on TV

Girl on TV by LFO

The set of "Friends"

Childhood dreams have come true this week!

Maddie waiting to be seated for "The Talk"

Going to a live filming this week I knew would be exciting. I never expected to be sitting front row center, let alone, the day that Brent Michaels came to visit! "The Talk" was my first exposure to live television. Fast paced and funny and super energetic. I like the idea of working for a live show but still not sure I would choose it as a career path. LA is already full of the word flexible, which is a word I am still becoming comfortable with. Live TV is just that, flexible.

Lorelei's house from "Gilmore Girls"

Gazebo from "Gilmore Girls"

Luckily, I was also able to experience the scripted side of television, while visiting the Warner Brothers studio. Traveling through sets and scenes that had become familiar to me throughout my childhood. It was like being a part of the shows I've loved for so long, knowing that one of my favorite actresses has stood where I was. 

As if our day wasn't busy enough, we got to interact with some of the OU alum who have moved out to LA. It was great. Everyone had so much advice that was honest and real. They were open and willing to help us if we chose to move out to LA. It made me even more proud to be a bobcat. Here are a few pieces of advice they gave us: 

1. Save money and lots of it. LA is cheaper than New York City and still 10 times more expensive then Ohio.
2. Make a long term goal and a short term goal. I like this idea because what you start out doing is 99.99999% not what you actually want to do for the rest of your life. So figure out where you want to be eventually.
3. Don't be intimidated or scared of the word "no". Everyone out here is doing what I want to do and some people will do it better. But that's when you have to remember what you have to bring to the table. And when someone says no, take the opportunity to ask what you could have done better.
4. Thank people. It's one thing that I've always done and I still appreciate when people bring up because I don't think enough people take advantage of those to simple words (thank you). Also, it would make the world a nicer place if we just all started genuinely using those words.
5. Have a thing. You can be interested in a million things but know why you are there in an interview and be passionate about it or else, don't do it.
6. Pay your dues. I've learned this in all my jobs but still important. You are at the bottom when you get here but don't be any less yourself. Do the bitch work and do it well.
7. Be bold but use your instincts. Don't be annoying about it but trust your gut.
8. Have the courage to come, have the courage to stay. Simply put, it's not easy. Don't give up.

I'm really grateful I had the chance to meet with so many wonderful alum, tour so many different sets and sound stages and experience a live filming. LA is all it's cracked up to be, and more. Also, here is a good article I read on LinkedIn last night for those of us who will be interviewing for jobs soon: 6 Questions To Ask During Your Interview That Will Make An Employer Want To Hire You

With Andrew and Mike on the set of "Friends"

California Dreamin'

California Dreamin by Mamas & The Papas

As a college student, I never thought I would consider 1AM to be late. That's what time it is in Ohio and when I left there this morning at 6:30AM, it was also 27 degrees. Nine hours later and I'm in Los Angeles, California, 70 degrees and 3 hours behind. So while here, it's only 10PM, it's 1AM at home. And I'm exhausted. But warm. And already more prepared, and excited, for my future.

Landing in LAX; view of the Pacific ocean.
First time in California.

When I applied for this one week intensive program in LA, I was nervous I wouldn't be selected. As a senior (graduating in 2 months), I have had no internship experience. Of course, with the sense of humor the world seems to have, everyone has been telling me over the past 6 months that the only way to get a job is an internship. I couldn't stop thinking about that. What do I do?! I've spent the past 2 years working for the university and any other part time jobs I could find because, well, I'm a poor college student. I never had time for internships.

And then tonight. LA gets me. It just clicks here. Internships, yeah, they are important. But the other stuff shouldn't be under valued. I'm currently working on a paper that focuses on the idea of schooling versus education. I think that is why people value internships so highly; they are hands on education that you just can't learn in the classroom. But, what if, education actually starts after graduation? What if, my education actually starts on May 5th? Okay, I'm a little behind everyone who has had internships but that doesn't make me any less aware of how important those experiences can be and what I can learn from them. I've also learned a lot from my job running a student union - a job only few students can truly understand and appreciate.

I'm not sure what I want to do yet. Everyone makes agency work seem like something people flow in and out of but I've considered making it a career. I'm a people person, I know I'd be good at it. And then there is the thought of working in casting. I love television or social media so maybe something along one of those lines. Or, if media doesn't work out, there is event planning. It's safe to say that there are still many cards on the table.

I've been fortunate enough to talk to 4 people in the business today about LA, the future of LA and my future here. Correct me if I'm wrong but, according to them, having many cards on the table seems like a good thing. I've always been open to new things and ideas and, in this industry, you have to be. When I started school, social media was just starting to boom. Now, there are whole careers based around it. There are the jobs that everyone hears about, talks about, the ones that are the first to roll on the credits. However, there are so many more companies and jobs that are popping up every day. To move to LA and be stuck in the idea of one job seems closed minded. You are almost setting yourself up to fail.

Jordan Blum, one of the writers for "American Dad", spoke tonight about how, moving out here, don't challenge yourself to necessarily be better than everyone else but instead, be better than yourself. Keep challenging yourself. Let your new piece of work be better than your last because only so much of how you succeed is your work. It's serendipity. It's relationships and networking. Put your name on a product that you are proud of and keep yourself open to jobs that are going to eventually get you to your dream job. Don't ever expect to be handed something.

View from our hotel in Burbank.