Cassandra Ching (JD ’06) is Senior Counsel, Business & Legal Affairs, Content Distribution for the Music Group at MTV Networks in New York City.

Tell us about your job at MTV. What are your responsibilities, and how did your career path land you there?

I negotiate and draft contracts for domestic and international content distribution and acquisition deals in connection with programs on MTV, VH1, CMT and Logo. I started my practice at a private law firm specializing in intellectual property, entertainment and commercial law, and I had wonderful mentors along the way who were very inspirational.

I always make sure to be a sponge, absorbing any and all information and experiences from my peers and mentors. There’s always room to grow in my profession, which keeps my job interesting. I’ve always believed that hard work, dedication, a good attitude and a pinch of luck will get you where you want to be in life.

What kind of challenges and rewards are associated with being a legal professional in the music/entertainment industry?

You are placed in a role with a lot of responsibility as people look to you for answers that often times require creative, efficient and practical legal solutions. I derive deep satisfaction when clients personally express their gratitude and appreciation for my legal assistance. It’s great to hear positive feedback and knowing that you’ve helped someone else.

Looking back on your time at the School of Law, was there a particular professor or course that influenced your career path?

Professor Simone Rose was my law professor and has been my mentor throughout the years. I took her course on Intellectual Property/Copyright/Trademark Law. I still enjoy discussing hot legal topics with Professor Rose and sharing our various perspectives on current IP issues.

What are your interests outside work?

I enjoy creative writing. I write for Organice Your Life magazine and blog headed by top model Lonneke Engel, which focuses on health, wellness and nutrition. The OYL team consists of models, celebrities and other top fashion and entertainment insiders who write to inspire others. I also enjoy taking time to participate in non-profit organizations such as VH1 Save the Music Foundation, which is dedicated to restoring instrumental music educational programs in public schools; and the Apollo Theatre Foundation, which is dedicated to the preservation and development of the legendary Apollo Theatre, cultivating the advancement of emerging creative voices across cultural and artistic media.

Do you ever have to “escape” the city for some quiet time?

I love NYC because you can do anything you want even if you are looking for some “quiet” time. The city has great places to escape from the daily hustle and bustle such as Central Park, museums, flea markets, movie theatres, driving ranges, tennis courts, restaurants and coffee shops. It’s also fun and relaxing to take day trips or weekend trips to nearby beaches during the summer and the mountains for skiing during the winter.