Entering the Job Market
Beginning your professional career can be a daunting task. There may be doubts in your mind, worries that you’re not fully qualified, and a fear of the unknown as you transition from a student to a professional. For those planning to enter the ever-changing world of content-creation, this proves to only be another set of factors to worry about. Will I be able to make it in this industry? What if things just don’t work out?
Fears and uncertainty are normal when entering a professional field, and with an industry like production and writing, you truly never know what to expect. Fortunately, there are many professionals in these fields who are willing to provide their own individual outlook and give advice to those aspiring to reach those same levels. One such professional, Ashley Prickett, has made many advancements in such a short time.
Meet the Professional
Ashley Prickett worked as a PA (Production Manager) for the series Nick News on Nickelodeon, as well as a reporter/editor and an assistant editor. Nick News started as a series back in the 1990s, and while it ended in 2015, the series was rebooted in 2020. The show takes topics discussed in typical news channels, such as the Presidential elections for example, and formulates them in a way that children can digest and form their own opinions on. The show also covered more ‘fun’ topics, such as wildlife and travel stories. Her team on Nick News was also nominated for an Emmy award in 2022.
Lights, Camera…
As many could expect, the production industry is chaotic, wild, and incredibly busy. However, during my interview with Ashley, I also learned so much regarding the entertainment industry that I had never even thought about prior. When asked about what type of college courses prepared her for production, for example, Ashley told me that “you don’t really have to have a degree to get into the industry. Some producers do prefer it, though, as it shows your ability to commit and complete something you set out to do.” She went on to tell that, despite college education not being required, the courses she took on communication turned out to be incredibly valuable during her time in Hollywood.
As a PA, Ashley often coordinated things on set, and as such, it was important to communicate effectively with her team members. Due to how quickly production tends to run, she spoke that “it was important for things to be communicated precisely the first time. When you’re on set, if you want things to run smoothly, you have to get it right the first time,” and thus concise communication is absolutely necessary. It was also important considering the show’s revival occurred during Covid-19, meaning that for the very first part of production, everything was being handled remotely. When asked specifically about what skills/abilities were necessary in her field, Ashley responded, “Communication. Absolutely communication.”
Beyond the Films
Ashley also has personal projects she is working on, such as an online media story that she is collaborating with another author and a novel currently in the process of being written. When asked about how to balance passion projects alongside supporting yourself monetarily, whether in production or writing, she answered: “A lot of people don’t know this, but most people in these industries–producers, actors, writers–have another job that supports them while they pursue their passions. The only people in this industry who are constantly being called to jobs are A or B-list actors and producers. For others, we pursue our passion while also keeping ourselves afloat. In creative fields, you need a backup job to keep your feet on the ground while also pursuing your dreams. Not only does it give you a way to support yourself, but it can help prevent burnout as well.”
Future Outlook
Though she encouraged me to pursue the things I want in life, Ashley also made the point that these industries can be very difficult at times. The often long work days can sometimes leave little room for socialization and affect your ability to network and “grow your reputation amongst other professionals.” As a beginner, it may seem difficult to get your feet on the ground, to fit in with the constantly shifting environments, or to even learn the craft in general. Ashley told me that with the more creative fields, your environment in college can be drastically different than actually experiencing the work. However, she offered encouragement for myself, or for any who may be worried about these difficulties and challenges that may arise when pursuing a career as a creative.
Problems can happen, sure, and there will be hurdles, but if you are dedicated and love what you do, you will find a way to overcome these hurdles.
Ashley Prickett
End Scene
Though she may not actively work in Hollywood at this moment, Ashley’s experiences and advice, both on production and life as an author, have opened up a new realm of possibilities and excitement for me. It was wonderful to talk to her, as her personality and excitement to be interviewed flowed through her answers and served as encouragement to me personally. Though it had been daunting to ask a professional if I, as just a college student, would be allowed to professionally interview her, I am incredibly grateful for this experience and the knowledge I have gained.
To anyone who may be considering a career as an author or in the entertainment industry, I’d like to offer the same advice that Ashley gave me: don’t give up. If you’re passionate about something, do it.
