Whether interested in film, music, talent management or television broadcasting, 75 HBS students on Hollywood Trek 2003, sponsored by the Entertainment and Media Club on January 5-8 were introduced to the nuts and bolts of the entertainment industry.
In pursuing broad industry knowledge or a summer or full-time position, each student was exposed to leading companies such as Disney, MCA Records, Brillstein-Gray, Hidden Beach Records, MTV, NBC, Univision, and Paramount. Over the four day trek, students met with several senior executives from all facets of entertainment, got management’s perspectives on the latest industry trends, asked topical questions, and, most importantly, networked with executives and alums.
“Hollywood Trek was a huge success. We met with some of the biggest names in Hollywood including Peter Gruber and David Stainton and it was a great opportunity for HBS students to meet, greet, and mingle providing a great springboard for them to pursue career in entertainment,” offered Danny Simon (NG).
Bernel “B” Hall (NF) noted “I learned a lot about the industry, and specifically from Brillstein-Gray, I learned that much of the business is about making connections and paying dues over time. Also, I learned that much of the business boils down to talent, discovery, and development, which is key in Hollywood.”
The networking was in full effect at a cross-discipline “Entertainment Panel,” sponsored by the HBS Alumni Association of Southern California. Over one hundred alums participated in the session, which included a panel discussion comprised of HBS graduates in top management positions at Viacom, RKO Pictures, Artisan Pictures and others.
Of course, what would a few days in Hollywood be without a little fun? Accordingly, Hollywood Trekkers enjoyed the warm California sun, finest libations, dancing, and even electronic bull riding at some of L.A. hottest nightspots including Sky Bar, Reign, The Standard, and The Saddle Ranch.
The Trek was successful as most participants left with an increased awareness of the dynamic industry, a host of good contacts to tap in this challenging job market, and an enhanced collection of friendships among the current HBS student body.
