Aronne Chan is a recent graduate from the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Film, and Digital production with a concentration in filmmaking and a minor in marketing. Chan spent his undergraduate experience at UC Riverside as an active and consistent participant in the community, holding several positions through which he could improve his skill set and build his professional portfolio. 

“UCR provides a lot of resources and I felt like networking and knowing people through professors really helped out,” Chan said. “I have done tons of short films — directing, filmmaking, and writing scripts. I had a little taste of everything, in the process from pre- to post-production. It really gave me a taste of what life is like as a cinematographer. In marketing, I was able to create ads, strategize, and produce for social media. I was able to land a lot of jobs — and I was able to search for opportunities where I was able to get more experience, build a portfolio, and just get better at what I love to do.”

Chan worked as a photographer for UCR Athletics, the Highlander Newspaper, as well as CHASS Marketing. Chan emphasized the benefits of networking as a student, in addition to the benefits of having a job during college.

“It's important to network with the students around you, and the professors, because they have so much experience,” he said. “Meet people, try to do projects together, do stuff for free even. I didn’t always think of money; I just wanted to collaborate, work with others, and build my portfolio. Time is limited, and you’re not gonna be here forever. Lastly, it's important to find something you want to do and find a job. It's really important to — at least for me — work while you’re in college. It's great to gain that experience, learn more, make some money, and get better at what you do.”

As graduation approached, Chan was certain of his future. He wanted to start professional work as soon as possible and did not consider graduate school to be an option. Beginning in December of 2023, Chan applied to as many jobs as he could before finally landing a position with media company ABC 7.

“I'm just really fortunate to be able to be chosen,” he said. “As an intern, I was able to create stories. I interviewed and wrote articles of local artists around LA doing murals, creating art, and telling a story. My work was showcased on live television several times. My articles have been seen in many places. I've been to many cool events: cultural events, marathons, races, concerts, and sports at the LA Rams game.”

With his position with ABC 7 having recently ended, Chan has begun a career in freelance photography and videography. Every job presents an opportunity to gain new experience, which lends itself to one’s portfolio. In his work taking food photos for a restaurant, he then gains future credibility as a food photographer. This practice is also helpful for people who wish to learn photography, Chan said. According to Chan, practice makes perfect.

“If you want to be a photographer or videographer, first you need to build a portfolio,” Chan said. “I would recommend trying out many types of photographs, figuring out what you like and what you don't like, what you're good at, and learn from there. Honestly, just bring your camera everywhere. That’s what I did at UCR.”

Chan, who currently works as a content creator and influencer, publishes his work on several social media sites. Connect with Aronne on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook , and LinkedIn.

FEATURED PHOTO. Aronne Chan gestures as he answers questions from an interview held in the HUB above the Commuter Lounge.