From News Lab to Disney: Teresa Gomez’s Journey Starting in Montclair’s Journalism and Digital Media Program

For many students, choosing a major comes with uncertainty, but for Teresa Gomez, ’24, the choice was simple. What initially sparked her interest in studying Journalism and Digital Media at Montclair was News Lab, a CCOM class that immerses students in real world news production. 

Throughout her time at Montclair, several professors made a significant impact. Professors Effron, Gantt, Franklin and Green stood out the most for her as they helped her with writing techniques, showcasing work, as well as gave her and other students a platform to share their work on which she can use outside of the classroom. 

In addition to support from faculty, another notable thing for her was CCOM’s Mentoring Program, which became an essential resource for her especially for preparing for life post-grad. “My mentor Al Prieto helped me with interview prep and reel, and kept in touch even when I moved for work!”

Upon gaining hands-on experience in news and television production, she learned more about the industry and how to be proactive and resourceful. Learning about new software and tools was also a plus and something that helped her grow more as a journalist. 

This path ultimately led her to where she is now, The Walt Disney Company. Starting out as an intern and eventually going back to the company for a full-time position, Gomez says “she always knew she wanted to work for the company again.” She is currently an Associate Producer of Creative and Account Services and Disney Entertainment. 

For current students looking for a future career in television, digital media, or entertainment, one of the critical skills she notes is forming a strong foundation in writing as well as technical production skills. She also advises, “I think consistency, being open to feedback, and being a reliable person are all good ways to make the most of your internships,” for students who are currently in an internship or will in the future during their time at Montclair. 

Her main advice for students however, is simple yet impactful: by being persistent and open to every opportunity, students can build the experience and connections that shape their path to success in the industry. ”Apply for a lot of internships and be willing to take jobs that give you the skills you need. Sometimes being willing to do any job will lead you closer to where you want to be.” 

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Story by Ioanna Tsompanellis 

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

Prospective Students and Parents: Plan your visit and take your first step in applying to become a Red Hawk. Learn more about our seven undergraduate programs including Journalism and Digital Media major at the College of Communication and Media.

About the College of Communication and Media: The College of Communication and Media (CCOM) offers a range of dynamic programs to a talented and diverse student population of over 2,000. Offering degrees in advertising, animation and visual effects, communication and media studies, film and television, journalism and digital media, social media and public relations, sports communication and an online, asynchronous MA devoted to strategic communication and media, the College prepares the next generation of communication and media practitioners and leaders. Founded in 2012 and housed in world-class, state-of-the-art facilities just 12 miles from New York City, the College is the only program in the country that offers the following opportunities for students: a radio station (WMSC), newspaper (The Montclarion), strategic communications agency (Hawk Communications), sports network (Red Hawk Sports Network) streaming platform (Hawk+), digital newsroom (News Lab) and studio, and a social media listening center (Joetta DiBella and Fred C. Sautter III Center for Strategic Communication). The College also has a Student Success team, including dedicated Career Services and Advising professionals who prepare students for the internship and job search process. Student projects and programs have recently received national recognition from PRSSA’s Bateman Competition, an Edward R. Murrow Award, several Marconi Award nominations, and College Television Awards (“Student Emmy” awards) from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The College is also home to the Center for Cooperative Media, which serves the public by working to grow and strengthen local journalism and media. Through $7.1M in grants awarded over the last five years, the Center focuses on collaboration in journalism, media equity, media coaching and training, civic science and research. The Center is also home to the NJ Civic Information Consortium, the largest funder of media and journalism in  New Jersey, granting more than $10M over the last five years to support independent local media, journalism and training initiatives.