Career Exploration


The Career Exploration program presents students with the opportunity to go out into the world and meet with leading communication professionals in TV production, journalism, public relations, the nonprofit sector, and more.

This is a unique chance for students to expand their networks in Los Angeles, New York City, and even right here in Seattle. Every year, the Department of Communication takes a select group of students to L.A., NYC, and to locations in Seattle, to tour facilities and meet with a dynamic array of industry professionals.

Career Explorations are funded in part by The Christopher Rauch Meyer Endowed Fund. This endowment is named in memory and honor of Christopher Meyer, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1985 from the University of Washington with majors in Communication and Psychology. Christopher also had a strong interest in film and theater; he took drama courses to hone his skills in acting and lived and worked in Hollywood on two different occasions to pursue his passion for work in film. This endowment honors Christopher’s legacy of seizing opportunities, taking chances, and pursuing dreams. Its creation has provided a range of students with opportunities to travel to, and meet with, professional communication leaders outside of the Pacific Northwest.

Do you have Career Kickstart questions? Email COM Advising at comadv@uw.edu or stop by the Advising Office (CMU 118).

The application to our Winter Quarter 2024 Los Angeles Career Exploration Trip is now available! The trip will be held February 21-24, 2024. More information on the trip can be found on the Google Form below. Applications are due December 17th at 11:59 PM with interviews held in January.

Back in 2017, eight COM students visited places like the Los Angeles Times and Sony Pictures Studios, networking with esteemed Communication professionals in the City of Angels for 48 hours. Check out this video made by trip attendee, Nicole Rader…
The Department of Communication brought eight eager students to New York City in 2014 to explore different career paths and expand their networks. They met with leading Communication professionals at Facebook, VICE News, Marie Claire, Deutsch advertising agency, and more…


Visit our UW COM Flickr page to view and download more photos from previous trips!