“Trust in yourself and your vision and go for it” are words alumnae Jonathan Mejia lives by. The Journalism graduate built off of the lessons he learned in the classroom with Teaching Professor Carlene Hempel and Professor of the Practice Mike Beaudet and applies them in his role as an Associate Producer at Univision Communication, the leading Spanish-language media and content company in the United States.
“Univision is a place for me to learn and grow; they help their employees succeed,” said Mejia. No two days are the same at the Spanish-language television network, so Jonathan’s responsibilities vary from creating informational banners, writing segments, producing behind the scenes and getting the opportunity to report on-air.
When Mejia began his time at Univision, he was no stranger to the newsroom. He was well versed in multiple aspects of Journalism through his co-op experiences with CNBC, Univision, and Channel 7 WHDH. These valuable experiences taught him the importance of saying yes to every opportunity, asking questions and being adventurous.
Whether Mejia is in front of the camera or working behind the scenes, he views every opportunity as a learning experience. His outgoing and unique personality allowed him opportunities and responsibilities not normally given to interns such as working closely with anchors, reporting and researching new and developing stories and being viewed as a colleague.
After receiving two student Emmy Awards, Mejia completed his classes at Northeastern in December 2019 and planned to use the first half of 2020 to travel until his graduation in May. Mejia’s travels came to a halt in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and he has yet to walk across the stage to receive his diploma.
That moment, although significant for every graduate, has a special meaning for Mejia as he is the first member in his family to graduate from college. “The diploma says my name, it should really say my family’s name – I wouldn’t be here without them,” Mejia added. His family encouraged him all throughout his educational career from his early aspirations of wanting to be a lawyer to discovering the world of broadcast journalism – his family was behind him every step of the way.
When reflecting on his career and life post-Northeastern, Mejia hopes to be a model and resource for all students and demonstrates that if you follow your dreams and trust in yourself anything is possible. “Northeastern is the best university Boston has to offer – experiential learning and global experience, co-ops, caring professors and the resources in and around the city – it’s a college like no other,” concluded Mejia.
Learn more about Jonathan by visiting his website.