MediaMKRS, LaGuardia & MetLife Foundation: 3 Years of Internships
(Left) CJ Allen (Right) Geoffrey Smith
A Partnership for Growth
Over the past three years, MediaMKRS has proudly partnered with LaGuardia Community College, with support from the MetLife Foundation, to expand career opportunities for emerging media professionals in New York City.
Through the Reel Futures Media Internship program, participants receive two paid internships and comprehensive career development support.
From September 2023 through August 2026, the partnership has funded 45 participants, who have been placed in 62 internships thus far, with additional placements expected this summer.
Students have interned with organizations including:
Amazon Studios
Jigsaw Productions
Rooftop Films
Building Beats
Oye Group
ARRI Rental, and more!
The program has also supported students beyond graduation, with 15 students transferring to four-year colleges, and 12 advancing into Advanced Reel Futures Media Interns (ARFMI). ARFMI is a program that provides an extra year of career coaching, individualized support, and recommendations for paid internships.
In these roles, they have worked in a variety of positions such as: Marketing & Production Intern, Development Intern, Production Assistant, Assistant to Independent Filmmaker, and Jr. Editor.
Building Pathways Into the Media Industry
Through the Reel Futures Media Internship, students received comprehensive support at every stage of their journey. Each participant completed 30 total hours of media-focused work-readiness training prior to being placed in two paid internships. A unique feature of the program is its two-tiered training model, which helps students build both foundational and advanced professional skills before entering the workforce.
Beyond placements, students had access to one-on-one career coaching and employment support, including hands-on guidance with resumes, applications, and interview preparation. As they moved into the workforce, ongoing coaching helped them navigate workplace challenges and continue growing in their careers.
Supporting Long-Term Career Success
Students have also gained access to Career Success, MediaMKRS’ alumni support initiative, which offers many opportunities, including workshops, career coaching, job recommendations, an alumni association, and networking opportunities.
Beyond internships, MediaMKRS courses were embedded into LaGuardia classes, integrating workforce development training directly into academic coursework. The goal of this approach is to help students connect classroom learning with real world industry preparation and professional opportunities.
Student Success Stories
The partnership created opportunities for students to launch meaningful careers and establish themselves within the industry. Through internships, mentorship, and professional development, participants are set to gain hands-on experience and expand their networks.
Erica Cheng who landed a Costume Internship at Amazon MGM Studios where she gained firsthand experience working within a major entertainment company. Wendy Lamothe found her footing at the Queens World Film Festival, contributing to one of New York City’s leading independent film festivals.
MEET CARLOS CALDERÓN
Reel Futures Media Intern, 2020
Continued his growth in the industry and is now a member of IATSE Local 829, working as an Art Coordinator.
Recent Role: Art Production Assistant, Netflix
Looking Ahead
MediaMKRS is grateful for the collaboration with LaGuardia Community College and the MetLife Foundation. Over the past three years, this partnership has allowed us to serve more students and help new talent jumpstart their careers in the media industry. Together, this collaboration has helped create new pathways for emerging talent and strengthened opportunities for the next generation of media professionals.
In light of the success, MediaMKRS looks forward to continuing to build on this partnership and exploring new opportunities to support LaGuardia students in the years to come.
If you’d like to be a part of the future of New York’s entertainment industry workforce, feel free to check out the 'Reel Futures Media Interns' programs at www.mediamkrs.org/reelfutures.