Mitchell Horwood

Mitchell Horwood

Master’s Student

Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school?

I originally hail from Hamilton, Ontario, which is less than an hour from Toronto, Canada. Before diving into the Master of Communication Management program at USC Annenberg, my journey traversed various roles in the media and entertainment landscape. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in english and cultural studies from McGill University, I delved into additional roles in public relations, talent scheduling, and press logistics at major film festivals such as Cannes and Toronto. Once I began finishing up my undergraduate degree, I realized I wanted a new challenge to help build my repertoire and stand out from the job market when applying to jobs within entertainment and sports. This passion led me to transition from the bustling film scene in Toronto to pursue higher education in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg?

Discovering USC Annenberg’s Communication Management program felt like uncovering a hidden gem throughout my graduate school search. In my quest to further my career in communications, I stumbled upon a program that perfectly aligned with my aspirations, combining both the business and communications aspects of my passions. What sealed the deal for me was the program’s global reputation and its proximity to the heart of the sports and entertainment industries. It was a serendipitous find, and the more I delved into the program, attended information sessions, and connected with current students, the clearer it became that USC Annenberg was the ideal platform to propel my career. The comprehensive course offerings, flexibility in electives, and the hunger to be part of a blue-blood college experience with that undeniable Trojan spirit all contributed to my decision.

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program?

My experience at USC Annenberg has been nothing short of exhilarating. From the moment I embarked on the application process to my current enrollment, it’s been a journey filled with genuine excitement and enriching experiences. I’ve formed lasting connections with unique individuals in my program and outside USC Annenberg, creating memories and friendships that will endure well beyond graduation. Beyond the classroom, I am fortunate to have the ability to experience surrounding areas of Los Angeles like Santa Monica, Burbank, and West Hollywood, which opens up my spare time to a myriad of cultures, from entertainment and concerts to sporting events to diverse culinary options. What stands out the most is the incredible support system: faculty and career advisors are always accessible, making the learning process seamless. Overall, the USC Communications Management degree program has been a truly enriching experience so far. I am enthralled to apply all I’ve learned to my future endeavors.