PSPA at the New York Film Festival

This past weekend, the Philadelphia Student Press Association (PSPA) reached an exciting new milestone: attending the New York Film Festival (NYFF) as credentialed members of the press. For our organization, which was founded to create opportunities and provide access for student journalists across the region, this experience represents a major step forward in showing how student voices can be present and active on some of the biggest cultural stages in the world.

A Festival Like No Other

The New York Film Festival, presented annually by Film at Lincoln Center, has long been one of the most prestigious showcases for international cinema. From world premieres to thought-provoking conversations with directors, actors, and industry leaders, NYFF is where the future of film is introduced to the public. For student journalists, being part of this environment means not only witnessing history but also contributing to the dialogue that surrounds it.

This year, PSPA had the honor of attending on behalf of our members, with Founder Jackson Juzang representing the organization. Through the generous support of Allied Global Marketing, along with Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, our team was able to take part in an unforgettable experience that blended reporting, networking, and hands-on learning in the heart of New York City.

Covering After the Hunt

One of the highlights of the weekend was covering the world premiere of After the Hunt, the highly anticipated new film from acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino. The film stars an incredible cast, including Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, and Ayo Edebiri, and its debut drew significant attention from both industry insiders and the press.

Following the screening, PSPA attended the official press roundtable, where journalists from across the country had the opportunity to pose questions to the cast and director. Thanks to the moderator, PSPA’s questions were included in the discussion—a moment that underscored the legitimacy and importance of student perspectives in professional journalism spaces. Hearing Roberts, Garfield, Edebiri, and Guadagnino respond thoughtfully to these questions was not only inspiring but also an affirmation of the meaningful role young reporters can play in shaping media narratives.

PSPA’s Jackson Juzang alongside Luca Guadagnino

More Than Just Coverage

While the film premiere and roundtable were central moments, PSPA’s time at NYFF was about much more than just coverage. Being present at a major international festival allowed us to see firsthand how large-scale media operations function, from red carpet logistics to press coordination. For student journalists, this type of exposure is invaluable. It provides context for how the industry operates and sparks new ideas for how we can bring similar professionalism and creativity back to Philadelphia.

Equally important, the trip created space for connection and collaboration. With both Jackson and Peyton on-site, PSPA was able to showcase the strength of our team and our vision for the future. Having multiple representatives at the festival reinforced our commitment to being not just an organization that talks about opportunity, but one that actively provides it.

None of this would have been possible without the support of our partners. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Agata Z. Patrick, Mary Kate Kalinowski, and the team at Allied Global Marketing, whose generosity opened doors for PSPA and made this entire experience a reality. Their support highlights the importance of industry leaders investing in the next generation of media professionals.

The New York Film Festival showed us that the future of journalism is bright, and that future is already being written by students today. PSPA is proud to be part of that story.