Alumni and Friends Making an Impact

For senior Hayden Parsons, her four years at the University of Dayton have been leading her to one thing. But if you think it’s graduation, you’d be wrong. For communication majors like Parsons, the Flyers in Hollywood trip is the culmination of their hard work, and the start of their future careers in media.

“Media production is so much based on who you know, so having the opportunity to talk to people and network with alumni and others who have connections to UD is important,” said Parsons. “It’s something I’ve thought about since my first year.”

As part of the Flyers in Hollywood program, alumni who are already working in Los Angeles open their offices and even film locations to students. They also arrange for students to meet with friends already in the business. It means students can network and maybe even nab their first job in the industry, all before the ink dries on their diplomas.

“I don’t think people always realize where their time or money is going,” said Parsons. “This is a trip that genuinely helps so many students figure out what they want to do and get jobs in the industry. It’s so beneficial for students in this major.”

“This is a trip that genuinely helps so many students figure out what they want to do and get jobs in the industry.” — Hayden Parsons

Experiential learning opportunities are the perfect examples of how UD supporters set students up for future success. Funding these kinds of experiences throughout the year — especially on days like One Day, One Dayton — helps students find where their passions lie.

“Flyers in Hollywood is about getting experiences for our students,” said Chad Painter, associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication. “Setting up tours at Entertainment Tonight, the Grammy Museum, Lightstorm Entertainment … that’s really where our alumni come in to help.”

The Flyers in Hollywood program is unique. Funding for the program is also supported by an endowment created when the University sold WVUD in 1992, and additional contributions from alumni come in the form of time, expertise and connections.

“So much of this industry isn’t about what you know, but who you know,” said Alex McClary ’22. “I never planned on moving to California, but when I came out here [for Flyers in Hollywood] one of the people who graduated before me offered me a job.”

McClary has now been in Los Angeles for two years, working in television as a set dresser. And he’s holding open doors for fellow Flyers, making all the difference for students like Parsons.

“I really hope it’s something that keeps on happening for years and years to come,” said Parsons. “I know after I graduate, this program is something I’m going to support because I want future students to have the same experience that I did.”