Candance Myers, a 2014 graduate, is a part of Utica College’s rich alumni network, specifically in the journalism and public relations departments. Myers, who received her bachelor’s degree in public relations and journalism, has transitioned into freelance television producing but has not forgotten her UC roots.

“I always knew I wanted a career in television or radio and I also had a passion for writing,” she said. “I battled if I should have majored in communications or journalism for a while and ultimately chose journalism because deep down I’m a reporter and someone who loves to tell stories.”

What Myers enjoyed most about the program at Utica College was the ability to talk with professors during their office hours. 

“I did this a lot with Professor Kim Landon and it was always a good time,” said Myers, who is a former Editor-in-Chief of The Tangerine.

Perseverance and Determination

Once Myers graduated from college, she faced some challenges and found herself still searching for her dream job three years after leaving UC. 

That experience helped her stay grounded and have faith which eventually helped her land a job as an office assistant for The Real Housewives of New Jersey. She went on to work on other projects such as The Real Housewives of New York, the Race in America series, Facebook’s Returning the Favor, hosted by Mike Rowe, and currently Netflix’s Queer Eye.

Not finding the right job right away was a frustrating experience. She stayed positive and continued to network, conducted informational interviews and kept options open for interesting opportunities. 

“I did my research on the key players of companies,” she said. “I applied and I just waited for my time. However, my frustration with things not moving as fast as I would have liked them is what led me to meet my first boss in television.”

Wearing UC and Hometown Pride

Myers grew up in Harlem, which is a place that she holds deep in her heart. 

“Growing up in Harlem was pretty cool,” she said. “There’s so much history there so every day it was like a history lesson walking down 125th Street. I love the culture of Harlem. I carry my Harlem pride with me everywhere I go.”

The Boys and Girls Club of Harlem also holds a special place in her heart. It was her first job as a teenager and the organization employed her between jobs as a new college graduate.

“They allowed me to create my own programming to teach editing and film to elementary-aged students,” Myers said. “They allowed me to mesh my world with their world so I could feel empowered. I now create content for BGCH and also act as their producer and videographer for events.”

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Maintaining a relationship with her former professors at Utica College is also important to Myers. Earlier this month, she was the guest speaker in a “Real Talk” event hosted by the Raymond Simon Institute for Public Relations and Journalism. 

Myers gave students advice and shared some of her career experiences. A few former professors, such as Landon, remember her for being a reliable and hard-working student.

“I could tell she had goals and that she was serious about pursuing them,” Landon said. “Her work ethic set her apart from her peers, especially at The Tangerine. That was one reason she became Editor in Chief.”

Looking to the Future

Her current goals include staying in the freelance producing profession. 

“I like my freedom,” she said. “I can decide when I want to start looking for work. If I just finish a show that was filmed for four months and decide I need a few weeks off I can take a few weeks.”

She also will continue to be an alumni resource for Utica College and its current students. Myers enjoys offering advice and providing guidance to a student in need. According to Myers, interning and building relationships is key when starting a career. 

“Build relationships with people in the industry they are looking to pursue,” Myers said. “Relationships are key. As cliche as it may sound, sometimes it’s really about who you know that can get you in the door.”