Alumni Spotlight: Mike Washington

By: Stephanie Marceron 

Meet Michael Washington! He graduated from UMBC in the spring of 2023 with a BA in Media and Communication Studies. He has always had a passion for photography and digital media creation and has been able to turn this passion into a career after graduation. I caught up with Mike to ask him a few questions about how life is after graduation and some advice he has for current and future students!

What do you do for work now that you have graduated and how do you utilize what you learned from your degree in your day-to-day life?

“I’ve been working for Maryland Public Television in their content department. I work as a production assistant, and so far I’ve helped produce episodes for two of MPTs notable programs: Outdoors Maryland and Maryland Farm and Harvest. My time in the MCS program helped give me direction and perspective for the digital media I produce. I’ve been effective in my career so far by capitalizing on my understanding of the audience.”

What is a piece of advice you have for upcoming seniors and what was your favorite thing about the department/degree, and/or what professor had the biggest impact on your time at UMBC?

‘My favorite thing about MCS was how my peers and professors engaged with the ideas. We took great interest in media scholars such as Marshall McLuhan and Stuart Hall. We appreciated debate, especially when our perspectives were in opposition. It allowed us challenge what we learned, and forced us to look for examples how these concepts were at play in our own lives. Additionally I’ve produced two short films and have been featured in barista magazine for my photography work. These both came through, effort, hours of scholarship, and building connections with people a deep passion for media.”

“My advice for MCS students is to look ahead and pursue your goals early. If you have an interest in a career, a calling, or a program, pursue it. Apply for internships, apply for jobs, and volunteer for causes that matter to you. All of that experience will make the difference in the career journey you’re on and the progression of the person you want to become. Oh…and enjoy your senior year!”