Gersh came to campus to talk about becoming an agent.
Photo Credit: Kiarah Leite
Three agents from the Gersh Agency, representing talents such as Megan Hilty, Kelli O’Hara and former Autism New Jersey headliner and Tony Award winner Laura Benanti, visited Montclair State recently for an informational session called “Who wants (or wants to be) an agent?”
The session was held on Oct. 28 in University Hall and included the Gersh Agency’s booking and public appearance agent Rachel Zeidman, literary agent Allison Cohen and theater agent Leah Hamos.
The Public Relations Student Society of America and Lambda Pi Eta partnered as hosts for the informational session, which provided an inside look at what each agent does, how they obtained their positions and how to get an agent or become one, followed by an open forum for students to ask their own questions regarding the field.
The Gersh agents were pleased with the turnout of the event. “It was great. I was really impressed by the questions and the general interest level of everybody,” said Cohen. Her colleague, Hamos, added, “[The students] had really diverse interests, so it was fun to see them tackling what their place in the entertainment or arts industry in general might be. They all had really great ideas to move forward post-college.”
Panelists included three agents with specialization in different areas.
Photo Credit: Kiarah Leite
Zeidman, who visited Montclair State last year to speak at a similar information session, said she was glad to have her colleagues with her this time. She also noted that the group of students this year was larger and had more diverse interests. “They’re just so positive and optimistic and have a really great outlook,” she said regarding the students in attendance and why she enjoys visiting the university. “They’re excited to be starting their lives. It’s nice to hopefully impart wisdom that they can take with them in a positive way.”
Overall, the students in attendance felt as though the presentation gave them a deeper look into the industry they one day hope to join. “It really prepared me for the real world,” said student Brianna Quigley.
Frank Favata, a senior who would like to be a sports agent someday, was glad to learn about agencies and the people who work at them.
Morgan Dickens, a freshman student, enjoyed the agents’ friendliness and also commented that the event helped her envision even more career options that she can pursue.
