Career development and mentorship at Conn

Timothy credits the Hale Center for Career Development for providing both technical support and confidence during his job search. “I worked with [Director of Employer Engagement] Cheryl Banker a lot over the years to get my portfolio and resume up to snuff,” he says. “I felt more emboldened to apply because I was told, ‘You’re doing the right stuff.’”

He also highlights Conn’s Film Studies Department faculty—Professors Nina K. Martin and Ross Morin, and technician Greg Surman—for cultivating an environment that encouraged growth and professional readiness, and says he learned a lot about leadership as a four-year member of Conn’s Student Government Association.

Climbing the ranks at Wayfair

Timothy’s initiative and eye for detail helped him move from production assistant to a director of photography in less than a year. He identified workflow challenges and proved he could improve efficiency, showcased his ability to capture natural light and mood, and demonstrated leadership and reliability while consistently exceeded production goals.

Now, as a director of photography, he runs shoots in a photography bay, collaborating with stylists, production assistants and talent to produce high-quality images for Wayfair’s massive product catalog. Each day is dynamic, with new teams, furniture, and challenges. The collaborative atmosphere, he says, keeps the work engaging.

Looking ahead: Media and storytelling

While Timothy is thriving at Wayfair, his long-term dream is to become a full-time videographer for a top media company like The New York Times or National Geographic, which would allow him to tell stories that explore diverse facets of life.

“I’d love to work in something news related, whether it’s contemporary news or going to an archaeological dig or making a piece about new scientific research.”