When Julian Wright (’16) was named to the 2025 Knoxville 40 Under 40 list by Knox News earlier this year, the recognition honored more than his success as a DJ and entrepreneur—it highlighted how earning a major from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville from the School of Journalism and Media (J&M) prepares graduates to lead, wherever media, creativity, and community intersect.
A 2016 graduate, Wright credits his UT experience with laying the foundation for the DJ business he runs today.
“From day one, it was a hands-on learning experience,” Wright said. “The university provided me endless opportunities to grow as a leader, professional, and a person.”
Skills in Action: Learning Beyond the Classroom
At UT, Wright immersed himself in the kind of experiential learning that defines the School of Journalism and Media. He worked as a camera two operator for The Volunteer Channel (TVC), gaining live production experience on the weekly feature show Orange Juice. In real-time studio environments, he sharpened technical skills, learned production timing, and developed the ability to perform under pressure—skills that now define his work as a professional DJ.
Like many J&M students, Wright arrived on campus knowing he loved media—especially music—but unsure how that passion could become a profession. Through hands-on coursework, campus media opportunities, and faculty mentorship, he discovered a viable path.
“Finding out there was an actual career path with DJing was huge for me,” he said. “I never thought I could be a professional DJ.”
Wright credits former College of Communication and Information Dean Michael Wirth, and professors such as Maria Fontenot and Lisa Gary, as mentors who helped shape his growth as a communicator and creative professional. Outside the classroom, Wright served in CCI’s Diversity Student Leader Society at and helped lead Diversity Week, strengthening leadership abilities that would later prove essential in running his own business.
From Production Skills to Entrepreneurship
Today, Wright is the house DJ for Spaces in the City, owner of JW Mobile DJ Services, and has performed at more than two hundred weddings across East Tennessee. His goal is to reach 500 nuptial celebrations and become one of the most decorated wedding DJs in the region.
Wright sees a direct connection between his experience as a J&M student and his work as a DJ. “A wedding is so huge—but you have one chance to get it right,” he said. “You’re aligning the music with timing to create the perfect day they’ll remember for the rest of their lives and connecting the community through entertainment.”
For him, each reception feels like producing a live broadcast: precise timing, technical execution, reading the room, and adapting on the fly are crucial to success—and there are no second takes.
The storytelling instincts, production discipline, and communication strategy he developed as a student now empower his brand, client relationships, and business growth. His work strengthens Knoxville’s creative community while reinforcing an important lesson for current students: a journalism and media degree opens doors far beyond a traditional newsroom.
A Degree Designed for What’s Next
Wright’s recognition on the Knox News 40 Under 40 reflects not only his personal achievements but also the spirit of the School of Journalism and Media.
His advice to current students: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to look for more—more opportunities. Go the extra mile. You’re at one of the best universities that can provide some of the best resources. Take advantage of them—and take off.”
Wright’s story is a reminder that a degree can open doors in unexpected directions. For him, it meant building a business around his love of music and storytelling—but for others, it might mean launching a brand, reporting in a newsroom, or working behind the scenes on creative projects. No matter where their ambitions lead, students leave CCI prepared to shape their communities in meaningful ways.
Watch Julian’s video on our social media and connect with Julian on LinkedIn.