‘Inspired me to think bigger’: Students gain career confidence at SXSW

Each spring, South by Southwest (SXSW) transforms Austin into a global hub of music, film and interactive media, drawing more than 300,000 creators and professionals. Students in this year’s industry immersion course experienced it all firsthand, from panel discussions and mentor sessions to film premieres and late-night showcases.

Josh Antonuccio, who leads the program, said the experience consistently provides students with unmatched access to industry opportunities.

“South by Southwest is a game-changing experience for students,” Antonuccio said. “They are afforded a crucial space to network and learn directly from the leaders and creatives across an array of culture-shaping industries. Even more so, they get to engage in a plethora of unforgettable events and opportunities in the areas that they are most passionate about."

For Jacob Smith, a senior media arts production major, the trip represented more than just a chance to attend panels or watch performances. SXSW became an opportunity to see the media landscape up close. Smith said the experience gave him a clearer vision for his career.

“Meeting professionals and experiencing panels and press events are experiences that will prove invaluable to my career prospects and for expanding my overall world view,” Smith said. “This experience not only affirmed my path but also inspired me to think bigger about the kind of media I want to help create.”

The trip allowed students to bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world. By learning directly from industry leaders while also experiencing Austin’s culture and energy, they gained a stronger sense of where they fit within today’s evolving media landscape.

While some students focused on broadening their understanding of the industry, others found confidence in their ability to network and make meaningful connections.

Senior music production and recording industry student Noelle Baker said SXSW provided the push she needed to step into professional conversations and establish relationships with leaders in her field. Baker explained that the festival helped diminish doubts she once had about building a career in media.

“I learned that I am completely capable of networking, building relationships and maintaining connections,” she said. “I have never felt more confident about my future in the field I am in, and other ones as well.”

Adam Robb, a senior media arts production major, has been inspired to spread the word about the SXSW program.

"This trip has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, filled with so many firsts," Robb said. "Everyone that I talk to about this trip, I encourage them to apply because this trip gave me the confidence that I could succeed in this industry."