Ally Mejia ’22 Selected for Television Academy Foundation’s Summer Fellows Program
A first-generation college student, Mejia is one of 50 students selected from across the country.
A communication major at Manhattan College, Ally Mejia ’22 will be a public relations/publicity fellow this summer through the Television Academy Foundation’s program.
Originally from Yorba Linda, California, Mejia attended Orange County School of the Arts in Santa Ana, California.
“It is an honor to know that I was chosen for this prestigious fellowship by Television Academy members,” said Mejia. “It feels incredibly validating to know that the same people who vote on the Primetime Emmy Awards recognized my dedication and hard work.”
“Growing up in Los Angeles County, I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in television. However, I owe it all to my father for inspiring me to follow my dreams, no matter how big or small,” said Mejia. “Working in television always seemed like a distant dream that was too far out of reach but to my father it was a goal that he wholeheartedly knew I could accomplish. While it may sound cliche, I would not be where I am today without him.”
“As a first-generation college student and a Hispanic female, this opportunity means the world to me. Growing up, I was raised by my single dad, who struggled to make ends meet. Even though my dad worked two jobs and money was tight growing up, we both never gave up hope that a better life was ahead of us. Knowing that both of our hard work paid off to get us to where we are today has made every obstacle life has thrown our way worth it,” said Mejia.
Typically, the Television Academy Foundation’s annual internship program provides 50 internships, at top Hollywood studios and production companies, to college students nationwide each summer. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Television Academy Foundation has had to re-imagine its internship program this year offering the 50 students selected from across the country the chance to either intern remotely or enroll as a Summer Fellow.
The Summer Fellows Program includes virtual one-on-one visits with professionals in a student’s field of study, online panels with leaders in the television industry, and customized seminars covering personal brand building and navigating the job market ahead. Fellows also become life-long members of the Foundation’s alumni family, giving them access to events and networking opportunities as they build their careers in the industry.