Video/TV major, relying on loans, sure she'll find work

Melanie Rubin, 19

Hofstra University, sophomore

Major: Video/televisionRUBIN chose a field she has loved since joining her high school TV station - and picked a college she thought would increase her chances of landing a job. Hofstra, she said, offers a respected television program, and proximity to New York City, where media outlets abound.

She's hoping her strategy will land her internships, and a job after graduation.

"In high school, when I got involved in my television station, I was pretty set - this is what I want to do," said Rubin, who briefly considered studying advertising. "It's something I've always been good at."

Her parents, she said, advised her: "Do what you love."

Rubin, of Philadelphia, is paying the bulk of her tuition with loans, and says she hopes her $45,000-per-year gambit pays off.

"If I'm putting all this money into this school," Rubin said, "it is extremely important for me to get a job."

She said she dreams of directing a television drama series, or filming and editing her own video packages.

But she said that by keeping her options open, she's confident she can find work.

"Jobwise, with any major, I know it's difficult now, but I know if you are in the communications field, something's out there for you."