Lisa Gallaher (McBride)
Class of:
2010
Current Occupation/Field of Work:
Research Analyst at CBS Television Distribution
Work Experience
After graduation, I traveled to South Africa to volunteer and attend the World Cup. Once home, I worked mainly as a freelance PA (Production Assitant) for various production companies (created commercials, pilots, local Orange County programs, etc). I was hoping for a full time job, and while I moved outside of production to find that, I was hired as an executive assistant at CBS Television Distribution in the Research Department. After a year, I was promoted to become a Research Analyst and have been learning a lot about the industry from the vantage point of the currency of ratings!
Why did you choose Comm Studies as your major?
I wanted to explore the television industry and also have a broad and interesting field of study. I minored in Anthropology and enjoyed the overlap.
Favorite UCLA memory and/or professor
Steve Peterson & Tim Groeling. Loved their classes and honors opportunities as well as their integration of technology to course material.
What was the most valuable or applicable lesson you learned from a Comm Studies class?
Critical thinking.
What advice would you give to a current Comm Studies student?
Make sure to explore internships for "on the job" training -- but value your coursework to become a critical thinker, quick learner and strong communicator (skills which will serve you well in any field!).Take advantage of pursuing informational interviews with people who you think have interesting jobs -- you may be surprised how happy people are to share their experiences! However, try not to be too anxious about finding the dream job right out of college -- it will probably take some time exploring and growing to learn what you like and dislike in the work place and as well as what your priorities are for a work/life balance.Enjoy UCLA! The people, the programs, the groups, the opportunities, the beautiful study locations. Note to the over-achievers: Make sure to have a balance -- if you try to do everything all at once you may end up overwhelmed and stressed! College is a great time to push yourself, but also learn how much you can handle while maintaining your health and sanity 🙂
Fun facts, interests, hobbies
The internship I did with CBS in college ultimately led to my first full time job (after staying in touch with my boss for a year!) and the opportunity to attend the Grammys twice!
