SAE Institute Nashville alumna and Chapter President for Writing Sessions America, Nina Beard shares her experiences of transitioning from the classroom to working in the entertainment industry.
What is your current job title?
I work at a creative platform/music label in Franklin, Tennessee as the Executive Assistant. I am also the Chapter President for Writing Sessions America, a national organization for singer-songwriters and producers.
What roles and duties are a part of your current role?
As an Executive Assistant for a music label, my day to day consists of managing artists’ schedules, planning tours (travel), and overseeing projects alongside our CEOs Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony; whether it’s a television show appearance, studio session, music videos or live performance.
What skills did you take from the classroom to your professional experience?
SAE Institute taught me that there is no wrong way to follow your dreams. Some decisions may take you longer to get to your destination but it’s all about enjoying and embracing the journey. In a nutshell, it starts with making a commitment to try. Each professor challenged me in a different way and I would say the biggest skill I took from my classroom to my professional experience is simply “showing up”. Not just for others but most importantly for myself.
What is it like working with recording artists?
I absolutely love it! I have the pleasure of meeting or working behind the scenes with GRAMMY® winning artists such as India Arie, Mya, Kirk Franklin, and Bobby Brown just to name a few. Each one of these incredible artists I’ve mentioned have definitely impacted my life from just being a fan of their art to meeting them and learning from them at some capacity. I totally respect the journey of an artist because it requires a great understanding of self as well as the ability to display your vulnerability with others. Recording artists have to be risk-takers.
What advice do you have for students interested in working in the Entertainment Industry?
ALWAYS BE PREPARED. This industry has its twists and turns and you have to be ready for a bumpy ride. Never be afraid to make a mistake because sometimes with-in those errors you find all the answers you will need to succeed. Also, make relationships a priority, you never know who knows who so always value every contact you gain. Lastly, be fearless, people are always watching your journey so be the example you would want to see.
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