Students

Driving Inclusion Behind the Scenes

Posted
July 8, 2025

Melanie Prado

Class of 2026

Currently Studying: Arts and Entertainment Management

Current Internship Position: Inclusion Outreach Intern

Company: Warner Bros. Discovery

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Melanie Prado, Pace University Lubin School of Business student

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

Lubin has helped prepare me for this internship through courses within the Arts and Entertainment Management program and through real-world, concept-based projects. These experiences strengthened my ability to collaborate in teams, communicate ideas clearly, and think strategically in creative environments—skills that translate directly to the fast-paced setting of my internship.

What attracted you to this internship?

As an Arts and Entertainment Management Major, I’ve always been passionate about storytelling in the entertainment industry. During my third year, I served as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Student Assistant and realized I found a space I wanted to explore further. This role blends my passion for storytelling with my drive to make an impact in the inclusion space—it was truly a no-brainer.

When I came across this opportunity at Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), it felt like the perfect fit. I knew that learning from an industry leader like WBD would be invaluable.

Describe what a typical day looks like in this role.

A typical day includes coffee chats, moving around the Park Avenue South office, and participating in collaborative meetings. I often jump between team discussions, assist with event planning, and connect with departments across the company. No two days are the same—and that’s what I love most. I’m constantly learning, whether I’m observing how things operate behind the scenes or diving into hands-on projects. There are always exciting moments woven in too, like Pride Month celebrations, mixers, or internal screenings of upcoming films.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

Without a doubt—the people. I’ve learned so much from the stories, expertise, and kindness shared by those at WBD. It’s been incredibly refreshing to feel seen and supported in such a large company. Speaking with inspiring voices across the industry has made a lasting impact. The community here has been the true highlight of this experience.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

This experience has brought me incredible clarity. I’ve always wanted to work in entertainment, but now I know I want to be in spaces where purpose and people come first. I’ve seen firsthand that if you stay genuine, work hard, and remain curious, you can go far. I’d love to continue working in the inclusion space and help tell meaningful stories within it.

I’ve seen firsthand that if you stay genuine, work hard, and remain curious, you can go far. I’d love to continue working in the inclusion space and help tell meaningful stories within it.

How do you plan to apply what you’ve learned during this internship to your next semester at Lubin?

So many of the terms and concepts I hear in meetings show up in class, so I’m excited to bridge those connections. I’ll return to Lubin with a deeper understanding of behind-the-scenes operations and a clearer view of how to apply classroom learning to real-world contexts.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who are looking to pursue internships in the future?

Absolutely. Stay curious, stay resilient, and never count yourself out. Remind yourself that the opportunities that once felt out of reach are absolutely possible. Use every resource available to you, challenge yourself, and stay focused on your goals. It will be worth it—and without a doubt, you’ll grow into the role you’ve been working toward.

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