We recently connected with Jessica Ross and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica , thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

One of the ways I began learning about the industry was in elementary school when I took my first acting class. It was a spark that ignited a lifelong interest. This interest only grew stronger when I dove into theater, public speaking, marketing, and media relations during college. Each course I took opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within the realm of storytelling and presentation . It was in those earlier years that I realized how much I adored the craft of acting, writing, and speaking to an audience.

To speed up my learning process, I now know that immersing myself even more in practical experiences and perhaps taking more specialized courses in editing and film production could have been beneficial. The balance between theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice is crucial. Additionally, focusing more intensely and not letting the myriad of college distractions sway me would have saved a lot of time. It’s easy to get sidetracked when juggling academics, social life, and career opportunities, but honing in on specific skills early on can pay huge dividends.

Over the years, I’ve developed several essential skills that have been pivotal to my growth. Adaptability has allowed me to thrive in different roles and work environments, while resilience has helped me handle rejection and criticism without losing motivation and confidence. Communication skills are equally vital, not only for crafting compelling messages but also for interacting effectively with the media, the public, and colleagues. Understanding the importance of storytelling has been a cornerstone of my career, enabling me to connect with audiences and convey messages in a way that resonates and inspires.

The biggest obstacle I faced was time management, particularly with an ever-changing schedule. Despite being great at prioritizing, the sheer volume of tasks often made it challenging to devote the necessary time to learning new skills continuously. Balancing these elements has been a learning curve, but each experience has contributed to my professional journey. Reflecting on these challenges, I see how they have shaped my approach to work and life, teaching me the value of perseverance, strategic planning, and continuous self-improvement. Embracing these lessons has been crucial in navigating the complexities of the industry and striving towards my goals.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

While my journey into the entertainment industry began with acting classes in elementary school, it truly took flight during college. There, I was cast in several student and independent films, which cemented my belief that this was my destined path.Over the years, I’ve been involved in a variety of projects, from TV shows and films to fashion collections and charity events. I’ve secured over 300 media placements, managed successful social media campaigns, and taken the stage as a keynote speaker. Currently, I’m thrilled to be working on a film and launching a new podcast.One of my recent projects also includes the pilot for “Chasing Stars,” a comedic-drama with an all-female lead cast.

I’m honored to be one of the presenters at the Young Artist Awards on July 21st. This event, often referred to as the ‘Youth Oscars,’ has been celebrating the talent and artistry of young performers since 1978. The Young Artist Academy™ Award is unique in its structure, mirroring guilds like the Grammys and Emmys. It provides those who participate not only with recognition but also with industry connections, networking opportunities, and education on navigating the entertainment landscape .

I’m also incredibly excited to be a part of the Cinderella of New York competition, providing dresses, shoes, and accessories to those in need. My fashion collection for Shine the Light On donates 50% of proceeds to World Animal Protection, a cause that means a lot to me.

Additionally, I’ll be hosting a live webinar for The Vault with the Modern Day Wife on August 27th, where I’ll explore my path in the world of show business , covering everything from public relations and social media to reality tv and fashion.

I strive to bring my best to every endeavor. I want others to know that I am incredibly committed to my craft and hope to make a meaningful impact through my work.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect is undeniably the ability to make a positive impact on others. There’s a profound joy in knowing that something you created can brighten someone’s day, motivate them to chase their dreams, or even make them more conscious of important issues like animal rights. When people tell me that my work has inspired them, it’s an incredibly fulfilling and humbling experience.

Another rewarding element is how gratifying it is to see your work resonate with others. Your work is personal, and sharing it with the world requires vulnerability. When your audience appreciates and loves what you’ve created, it brings a sense of contentment and accomplishment that is difficult to describe. It’s a reminder that all of the stress, setbacks, and the moments of self-doubt are worth it.

Moreover, I have the opportunity to influence change. Whether it’s through a TV show that sparks a conversation, a fashion line that supports a cause, or a public appearance that raises awareness, each endeavor can create waves of impact. Knowing that I can contribute to the world in a meaningful way, no matter how modest, is incredibly rewarding and drives me to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The pandemic of 2020 was a major pivot point in my life, both personally and professionally. Overnight, everything changed. The busy, fast-paced world I was accustomed to came to a sudden halt, and like everyone else, I had to adapt quickly. The most challenging part was the lack of preparation for such an unprecedented event. I went from having a non-stop schedule to being confined in my home, wondering how to navigate this new reality.

Initially, I believed the disruption would be temporary, but as the months dragged on, it became clear that this was a long-term shift. I had to quickly adapt to the world of Zoom meetings and self-tape auditions. Learning about lighting, editing, and hosting virtual meetings became essential. This taught me patience and the importance of flexibility in the face of unforeseen challenges.

Despite the upheaval, I used this time to expand my skill set. I learned how to produce my own TV show, enhanced my video editing skills, and embraced the digital transformation in the industry. This pivot, although difficult, ultimately enriched my capabilities and reinforced my resilience. It made me more resourceful and innovative. It was a testament to the power of adaptability and the silver linings that can emerge from even the most daunting circumstances.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.IMDb.me/jessicaross
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicarossofficial
• Facebook: /www.facebook.com/jessicaross2018
• Twitter: https://Www.twitter.com/jessicaross19
• Youtube: https:// www.youtube.com/c/JessicaRoss

Image Credits

Albert Ortega, Barbara Sanchez, Kathy Kolla, Vivien Killilea