Meet Priscilla Reza (MSL 2020), a business executive in the entertainment and gaming industry who leveraged USC Gould’s Online Master of Studies in Law to sharpen her legal expertise and expand her leadership impact. In this Q&A, she shares how earning her MSL and certificates in Entertainment Law and Industry and Business Law strengthened her credibility, positioned her for advancement and empowered her to navigate complex business challenges, all while balancing a career and single motherhood.
What made you pursue the Online MSL at USC Gould School of Law?
As a native Angeleno, attending the University of Southern California had long been an aspiration of mine. I am a dedicated lifelong learner, and as a business executive in the entertainment and gaming space, I believe that deepening my understanding of law — particularly in the areas of entertainment and business law — would provide a strategic advantage in my career. I was highly motivated to advance my skills and broaden my expertise so that I can make greater contributions and excel in my field. I was also eager to expand my network and become part of the prestigious Trojan family.
What was your experience balancing your Online MSL coursework with your professional and personal commitments? What strategies helped you to succeed?
Balancing life, career and single motherhood were challenging at times. However, I remained motivated, focused and fully committed to the online legal master’s program. The experience was incredibly rewarding and absolutely worth it — especially with the unwavering support of my family and friends. My daughter was only 5 years old at the time and became one of my greatest supporters. As my little sidekick, she joined while I studied and attended football games with classmates. I fully immersed myself in the program, dedicating significant time to studying outside of work. Working from my home office made logistics easier, but my weeknights and weekends were largely devoted to coursework and study. I kept a fairly organized schedule to stay on track.
What is a key takeaway that you learned from your studies at USC Gould?
The Online MSL helped enhance my legal analysis, writing and research skills and proficiency, which have been beneficial for me navigating complex business matters, particularly in the area of entertainment. Through the study of law and engaging with diverse perspectives in the classroom, I gained an understanding of how the legal system works but also gained insights into how a lawyer would think. Things simply started to click.
In addition to completing the MSL, I earned certificates in Entertainment Law and Industry and Business Law. Both gave me the competitive edge I needed in my career and helped position me for advancement at my firm.
Joining the USC community, being part of a diverse cohort and connecting with faculty and fellow students from the entertainment industry enhanced my experience and deepened my professional network. To this day, staying connected with former classmates has been both personally and professionally meaningful and has continued to support my growth after graduating.
Looking back, what aspects of the program provided you with the most unexpected value?
I was surprised by how quickly the program made a meaningful impact on my skills and career — the value it delivered far exceeded my expectations.
How has your Online MSL given you an advantage in your career?
There was a significant shift in how I was perceived internally at my firm during and after completing the program. My manager was highly supportive and senior leadership approached me to discuss leadership opportunities. Earning my master’s degree and graduate certificates positioned me for promotion and enabled me to reach a new income threshold, demonstrating the tangible professional value of my education. My CEO and CRO even reached out personally to congratulate me on earning my master’s degree while balancing work and single motherhood, acknowledging that it must not have been easy.
The program also provided an unexpected level of credibility with my clients in the entertainment space. With a foundation of legal studies relevant to my industry — including certificates in Entertainment Law and Industry and Business Law — I became better equipped to partner with clients, anticipate and solve complex issues, and negotiate more effectively on behalf of my firm. This has been instrumental in advancing my career.
What advice would you give to prospective students who are interested in pursuing their MSL?
Be fully present and committed to the program — truly immerse yourself in every opportunity it offers. Take advantage of networking events, engage with classmates and faculty, and build relationships both during and after your studies. It’s absolutely worth the effort.
What sparked your interest in learning about law and legal concepts?
I’ve always been genuinely interested in studying law. As someone who thrives on intellectual challenge and continuous learning, I knew that a deeper understanding of legal principles would complement my business background. I believed that legal knowledge would not only satisfy my curiosity but also help me become a more well‑rounded and strategic business professional. This has proven true as I apply what I’ve learned to real‑world issues in my career.
What relationships or connections formed during the program have proven most valuable to you?
Looking back, some of the most valuable relationships I formed during the program were those with classmates, alumni, faculty and staff. I love staying connected to my Trojan family!
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