The event was designed to give Elon Los Angeles students invaluable, face-to-face interactions with high-profile LA-based alumni who have established their prolific, professional careers in the city.
Elon University Los Angeles students gathered for a night dedicated to professional development and alumni networking with a “speed networking” event.
The event was designed to give them invaluable, face-to-face interactions with high-profile LA-based alumni who have established their prolific, professional careers in the city. Held at the Elon Los Angeles home base, The Preserve in Hollywood, the event featured six distinguished alumni, all of whom participated in the Elon University Los Angeles program as students.
The alumni panel included: Kendra Chideya, a creative professional with a background in film production and client services; Eric Hernandez, an Emmy-nominated director and producer at Infinitus Pictures; Matt Holt, a literary manager’s assistant at Ensemble Entertainment; Grayson Lichtenthaler, an emerging actor and Groundlings trainee; Oliver Smith, a page at Paramount Pictures; and Jordan Young, a filmmaker and writer.
Students rotated through six conversation stations, where they engaged in 15-minute, one-on-one conversations with alumni. This process enabled each student to maximize their learning, receiving personalized advice on everything from job search strategies to navigating the challenges of relocating to Los Angeles after graduation. Alumni provided unique insights into their personal journeys, including how the Elon University Los Angeles program has impacted their careers. They heard stories of how their transitions to LA were shaped by their time at Elon, offering invaluable lessons on how to land full-time roles in the competitive entertainment industry. One theme that emerged throughout the night is the strong community fostered by Elon alumni in Los Angeles.
“The Elon network in L.A. is like a family: we’re all invested in each other’s success,” said Young.
For nearly 17 years, Elon University has offered specialized, career-focused and immersive academic programming and internship opportunities for students in domestic National Campus locations. Enrollment for the Elon University Los Angeles summer 2025 program is now open. Visit the Los Angeles National Campus site for information.