Jessica Villasenor ’26 advances filmmaking skills through summer internship

Over the summer, Jessica Villasenor ’26 had the opportunity to advance her filmmaking skills through an internship at a Chicago-based film production company.

Credit: Jessica Villasenor ’26 She gained valuable insights into the fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, including experiencing various stages involved in producing films, from pre-production creative decisions to onset production coordination. She learned key behind-the-scenes aspects of running a moving image production business through juggling several film projects simultaneously along with attending professional networking events.

Jessica is a major in public relations with a minor in film and new media. On campus, she is a member of Pi Theta sorority, Public Relations Student Society of America, and the Carthage Film Association. 

“One of the key lessons I took away from the internship was the importance of adapting to the diverse personalities in the film industry, rather than shying away from them,” says Jessica. “I’m grateful for the experience because it exposed me to many different sides of the industry, both good and challenging, and taught me the importance of perseverance.”

Jessica says that going through those ups and downs confirmed that this is her true passion and her commitment to making a positive impact in this filmmaking field. “I’ve heard countless times how tough the film industry can be, and now, more than ever, I understand that reality. Still, I’m ready to face whatever comes my way and continue pursuing my goals. Having a chance to learn this, about the industry and myself, made the film production internship worth the hard work!”

Concurrently with her internship, Jessica also expanded her skill set by working behind the camera. She was a production assistant on a commercial for the movie “Wicked,” set to release in November. The commercial features a WNBA player.

“These experiences were instrumental in helping me move closer to my career goals. My ambition is to work as a first assistant director or producer in the film industry.” Jessica has been steadily building toward that goal for some time now. For the last six years, she has had experience in front of the camera as a background actor on various productions around Chicago, such as the “One Chicago” shows, the 2021 movie “Candyman,” the Apple TV series “Dark Matter,” and more.

“I encourage other Carthage students to go out and try new things for their own development beyond the classroom. Not only did I build up my resume and work skills, but I learned things about myself as a filmmaker and as a person.”

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Photography and Film and New Media Program

For more information, contact:

Jojin Van Winkle: jvanwinkel@cathage.edu