National Entrepreneurship Week: Caletta Harris-Bailey
As National Entrepreneurship Week continues, for today’s Q&A, we caught up with 2004 Broadcast Journalism graduate Caletta Harris-Bailey who owns Reel2Real Productions.
Briefly describe your business and what drove you to start it?
I own Reel2Real Productions, a full service video production company. We direct, produce, film and edit TV commercials, promo videos, TV/web shows, live events, create marketing materials and more. I was driven to start my own company because I wasn't very good at taking authority in the workplace, especially when the employer took advantage of the employees. I had about ten jobs before I was eighteen and decided that I was not made to work for anyone and that "one day" I was going to own my own company.
What was your major and why did you choose it?
I chose Broadcast Journalism because I thought I wanted be an anchorwoman, but soon discovered my passion was behind-the-scenes working with video cameras and editing software.
What experiences at USC helped to foster your entrepreneurial drive?
I gained much experience by filming my own news packages and being able to create (through writing and editing) stories that aired on television.
How did USC prepare you for opening your own business?
During the last semester of my senior year, I was given options to explore and shape my skills for the industry through audio mixing, writing, filming and editing my own projects.
What student organizations helped you the most?
WUSC 90.5FM
What advice do you have for students who may want to pursue a similar path?
I would tell students to learn as much as you can, especially after you graduate. Technology is changing everyday, so you need to do your own research and gain hands on experience to get ahead at an early age. Also, take classes or learn how to do conduct business. If you want to be an entrepreneur, you need to know more than just your craft. You need to be able to wear many hats!
Visit Reel2Real Productions online at http://www.r2rpro.com.













