Testimonials from the 2025 FUTURE NOW Conference

"FUTURE NOW is more than just a conference. For me, it has truly been a foundational moment in my journey thus far, and I'm excited to see what the future holds." - L. Snow, University of Wisconsin-Madison

"Having access to viable information sessions on the media and entertainment industry and getting to connect with current professionals and rising leaders from all over the country is a blessing — an opportunity I am honored to have been afforded." - T. Starks, Pace University

"I highly recommend this conference to anyone interested in the Media and Entertainment industries. It was great to experience the broader media industry and gain new perspectives. I cannot wait to see how attending this conference helps me grow." - M. Veras, Temple University

"Looking back, this conference was not just an amazing opportunity to network with employers and learn about job paths—it was genuinely a cool experience to grow and connect with people like me: my industry peers. It was inspiring to hear their stories and build connections beyond a classroom or a Zoom call." - A. Wenger, Seton Hall University

"The conference was an amazing experience that delivered on every front – from gaining valuable insights into the evolving media landscape to connecting with talented industry professionals and meeting other students in my field from around the country, who I'm excited to call new friends." - R. Solomon, Northeastern University

"This three-day conference consisted of networking, keynote speakers, and mentoring sessions. All of this left me feeling both inspired and excited for my future work within this industry, and I am grateful for the entire experience." - K. Berardino, Fairfield University

"This year truly resonated, not just through connecting with amazing professionals, but also by forming deeper bonds with inspiring students. Those connections made the experience even more special." - D. Cooper, Rutgers University

"It was an inspiring experience filled with insightful conversations, meaningful connections, and valuable lessons at the intersection of business, media, and technology. I especially appreciated hearing from professionals as they shared practical advice and personal stories to help guide the next generation of industry leaders." C. Gerardi, Fairfield University

"The FutureNow community’s dedication to the intersection between data-driven cultural insight and powerful storytelling invigorated me." - T. Gitlin, Union College

"Getting to speak with professionals from these companies gave me invaluable insight into different corners of the industry and left me feeling more focused about where I see myself in this space." - L. Greaves, Brown University

"I’m truly grateful for this experience. It brought me one step closer to the career I’ve envisioned, and I’m walking away feeling inspired, enriched, and excited for what’s ahead." D. Kaminski, Stockton University

"The chance to learn from and engage with driven, successful, and passionate individuals is at the heart of this program—and it’s something I’ll carry with me as I continue to pursue a career in media. From honest advice about breaking into the industry to seeing the behind-the-scenes of major media organizations, every moment was impactful." - E. Ko, Williams College

"I left [the conference] inspired, with new knowledge and a clearer understanding of what I want to do post-graduation." - C. Lvov, Pepperdine University

"This event has cemented that this is the right career path for me. It has also dramatically boosted my confidence in my abilities. I believe that I was able to truly connect with people whom I had never met before, and quickly build relationships with them that I will maintain for the rest of my life...I am still in awe at how intelligent, articulate, professional, passionate, caring, and genuine every single person that I met was." - B. Mari Davis, Temple University

"I am beyond grateful to have met so many passionate professionals through powerful panels to meaningful one-on-one conversations. Every moment spent connecting with such ambitious and driven leaders reminded me why this industry matters." - A. Mueller, University of Wisconsin-Madison

"From hearing real stories and insights about the industry to asking questions and building connections with professionals from some of the biggest names in entertainment, it was both eye-opening and encouraging. I walked away feeling inspired and reminded of the importance of staying curious, being open to new ideas, and taking chances — because you never know where it might lead in your career." - E. Nuñez, University of Maryland

"The volunteers taught me something the most valuable, which is that giving just an ounce of your time, just a minute, goes a long way in building a community that nourishes the environment for a network to grow, such as this one. Thank you, thank you, thank you." C. Ruiz, Temple University

"Throughout the conference, I listened to powerful conversations about how the media landscape is changing, the future of content, and what it takes to grow in this field. I also got to meet amazing students and mentors from across the country who reminded me why I care so deeply about this industry." - Z. Shantique, Temple University

“As a young New Zealander building a life in the media realm, being in the room with this many generous, passionate leaders was beyond inspiring” - J. Taylor Gray, Temple University

“I’m endlessly inspired by the volunteers, alumni, and team at FUTURE NOW—their dedication to mentoring the next generation is why I remain so committed to supporting nonprofits and people-first organizations in this space.” - H. Kirk, Ringling College of Art and Design

“I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the FUTURE NOW Media Foundation, Inc. conference for the third year in a row. People often ask why I come back time and time again, and it's because each year FUTURE NOW delivers richer experiences, deeper insights, and stronger connections.” - C. de la Masa, University of Wisconsin-Madison