July 2014

July 2014
Michael A. Gottesman

Q & A:

• What was your favorite class, who was your favorite professor, or what is your fondest memory of Hofstra?
  This is a great question. Out of all of the professors at Hofstra who helped shape the person I am today, I would say the most influential was Professor Linda Longmire in the Global Studies and Geography Department. She really inspired me to be passionate about the things I do. It wasn't so much a class that influenced me. It was more so the European Odyssey I experienced twice with Dr. Longmire ... once as a student and the second time as a peer teacher. Living out of a suitcase gave me perspective on the whole world!
• How did you come to work in the entertainment industry?
  My introduction to the entertainment industry came when I attended several meetings of the Hofstra Concerts. My neighbor in Bethesda, Maryland – Seth Hurwitz – is a major music promoter in the Washington-Metro area. I was fortunate enough to build a rapport with him, and he helped me get my foot into the entertainment industry when I interned at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., a major music venue. During my senior year, I was able to intern at MTV, Sony BMG and The Agency Group.
• What advice would you give current Hofstra students?
  Be passionate about the things you do. It is never too early to put yourself out there in the real world. There are great opportunities both on Long Island and in New York City. Internships are very important to help build a successful college resume. Even if it’s not for you in the end, you can certainly spin it to your next internship/career.
• In one word, how would you describe Hofstra?
  Challenging. It’s important to be challenged because if you’re not, you have nothing to prove.
• How has your degree helped you?
  While my degree has certainly helped me, it was the scenarios I was placed in at Hofstra that helped shape the person I am. Learning on my own gave me the opportunity to become a more independent person.
• What unique experience or qualifications separate you from other colleagues?
  While I help connect people with minds who have helped shape the world as well as comedians who bring an audience to tears, the most important aspect of my job is listening. As much as I love to share my ideas with others, it is crucial to understand the needs and wants of what the client is looking for. It's always a good idea to act like a sponge to take everything in. I've learned so much doing that.
• Who was the person who most influenced you, and how?
  My parents certainly played an integral role. They have pushed me to make my own decisions and to live with no regrets. Seth Hurwitz, the music promoter, has strongly influenced many of my career decisions. He told me several times that I was too nice to be in the entertainment industry as it can be very cutthroat. I feel that I have proved him wrong!
• What is the hardest/toughest part of your job?
  Managing my clients’ expectations. It’s important to be both transparent with everything and to over-deliver for your client.
• What is your single most rewarding/exciting experience at Gotham Artists?
  I love waking every morning with the expectation of working alongside people who are trusted colleagues. Perhaps the most rewarding part of my job at Gotham Artists is helping connect the world with great minds, proven leaders and the very best comedians. I am looking forward to more challenges and excitement in the years to come!