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Promo Pathway, the nation’s first accredited on-air promotions and marketing training program, was developed through a partnership between PromaxBDA and Santa Monica College. As the program enters its fourth year, two recent graduates now working in the industry reflect on what they learned, who made a real impact, and how Promo Pathway helped open doors for them as they start their careers. Learn more about Promo Pathway at promaxbda.org
Tyson Suzuki — Promo Pathway Class of 2015 — currently working at Studio City
What did you like about the program?
It was literally 0-100 in the beginning. We all jumped right into hands-on training that helped ID where and what you wanted to do in promo—each element is a piece of the storytelling process.
The teachers and speakers truly gave us hope and visibility into their creative world and they taught with passion that provided us the sunshine to grow.
It also fostered a work ethic that is helping me in my current position at Studio City. I’m happy to take the night shift or work long hours during the week to help my team and build my reel.
What did you learn from the program mentors?
Marla Provencio at ABC was awesome. She told me to follow the passion that moves me and stand firm with kindness. Stu Weiss at Studio City told me to be bold, and be willing to take risks—and that you can always grow to be better. Eric Covert at Disney Channel always had an open door and was willing to hear me out. He taught me to always be prepared and understand who the key players are, and to never forget to read a room.
What was the most important lesson you learned in Promo Pathway?
Don’t be lazy. I have a huge disconnect with my generation and the Millennial sense of entitlement. It’s hard to ask for help, but Frank Dawson broke it down and pushed me to not rely on excuses—and to produce great work that speaks for itself because that is your reputation.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
As a creative director or VP overseeing promo and redistributing the help I’ve received and helping others to climb up.
Nancy Estrada — Promo Pathway Class of 2015 — currently working at Viacom on the Spike TV Digital Team
What did you like about the program?
The professors. They were more than teachers—they were mentors. They were always open to questions from the students, and gave us solid, constructive feedback that was raw, real, and presented a clear picture of what to expect in the industry.
What did you learn from your creative coach, Lucas Aragon (ABC).
At one of our first meetings, Lucas brought one of his colleagues from ABC who was a promo writer. They both reviewed my scripts and the critical feedback they provided helped me shift perspective throughout the writing process and see the scene from the audience’s view and not just my own personal lens.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
As a creative director still in the industry.
Why was Promo Pathway a good fit for you?
Because it opened up a lot of opportunities and helped me learn about an industry I didn’t know was there, but was absolutely suited for my talents and strengths. Promo Pathway gave her the niche to fit into.
Any words of advice for new class?
Come in with drive. It will be tough, with lots of work, but it does pay off.
Interview edited and condensed.
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