On Thursday, January 19^th, Paula Cole came to Berklee to speak with students, staff, faculty and alumni. Women staff and faculty at Berklee are starting a new initiative called Berklee GEMS. This program helps to raise awareness and responsibility in the entertainment industry. One of the main goals is to bring back established alumni who are doing great things in the entertainment industry. The first luncheon featured Annie Clements, the bassist for Grammy-winning country band, Sugarland.

The luncheon started off with great conversations at all of the tables. The women who attended were able to share what challenges and what successes they have had as female working in the entertainment industry.

Paula Cole then spoke to the group about her career and the challenges and successes that she herself had. She spoke about wanting to produce her own album, and the challenges she faced, mostly because she was a female who wanted to be a producer. Cole was an empowering and inspiring presence to the entire room, reminding everyone to continue to listen to “that little voice inside you”.

Group shot with Paula Cole.

She also spoke about an issue that many females in the industry face, self-confidence. Being a male drive industry, many women struggle to find their place. She reminded the entire room to remain confident in yourself and what you have to offer.

The take away from the event was a great deal of knowledge as well as a feeling of uplifted empowerment.

For more information on Paula and her music, visit her website, http://paulacole.com/home.