Mission Success: Recent Graduate Now Working for Department of Defense

Ricardo Perez-Lopez ’18 is working for the Department of Defense as a new addition to one of its latest development programs. The music business graduate credits the variety of career opportunities and breadth of practical learning experiences during his time at LVC that prepared him for this exciting but challenging job.

“By studying music business, not only did I have access to the music industry education I sought, but also the business side of the degree enabled career advancement opportunities in fields that didn’t have anything to do with music,” he said. 

“LVC equipped me with the opportunities and resources to grow personally and develop a critical thinking mindset and the business communication skills I needed in order to be successful in my career,” he said. “For me, that included not just the courses and instructors, but being involved in extracurricular activities as well.”

As a music business student, Perez-Lopez worked with VALE Music Group, the College’s student-run record label. One of his primary responsibilities was planning the annual VALE Media Industries Conference, which he said was challenging, fun, and provided real-life experience. 

Perez-Lopez gained more meaningful work knowledge with the City of Lebanon as its Community & Economic Development intern.

“I did a lot of research work and contributed to the city's endeavors for enhancing its Business Improvement District,” he said. “My favorite part of the internship was supporting and helping manage the city's social media presence.”

While Perez-Lopez said he feels qualified to pursue a career in music, copyright, or entertainment law, he will be using the skills learned at LVC to pursue the opportunities for advancement the federal government offers. 

 

- Sierra Force, LVC Marketing & Communications Student Assistant