By: Eric Triplett in Intro to PR Class MC 253
My time here at Bethune-Cookman University has been an amazing balance of both athletics and academics, especially in the Mass Communications department. As a student athlete in Daytona Beach, I have learned so much about not only myself, the community, my network that it has all contributed to who I am as a person on the field and in the classroom.
When I think back on all of my experience and memories thus far with the mass communications program, the most memorable one that comes to mind was sophomore year when I was chosen to participate in a hands on project. The course focused heavily on broadcast journalism. I was able to work with some of the best students in my class, our collaboration made the biggest difference.
Being that I am also a full time athlete, the way I manage my time is one of the most important parts of my routine. Thankfully, my professors understood that I had multiple responsibilities to take care of. I appreciate all of the support from the staff and professors to make that much of a difference in my experience.
Looking back, I remember my first time in the broadcast studio. I was so excited to be there. I noticed all of the equipment, the true behind the scenes of everything I’ve always watched on TV. I was ready to dive right in.
The project consistent of creating a live news segment. My part consistent of being a reposter and a host. I would be lying if I said it wasn’t a challenge to balance my commitments as an athlete and a student, but never impossible. I actually enjoy the multiple responsibilities as it’s been this way my whole life and I am able to learn so much from it. I learned things from this project such as how to operate the cameras, how to write and read scripts the correct way and I even touched on the technical side to broadcasting. With all of this being said, there was one thing that really stood out to me the most and that was the community and network within the mass communications department. There was so much positive positive energy in every room. The professors and staff were always so understanding and really just a breath of fresh air. With the help of everyone we were able to create an amazing project that exceeded my expectations. Without each other, we would have been unable to create something so impressive and special.
BCU does a great job at operating this program. They really do help to prepare you for the real word in this field and not just “busy work” to hurry up and get your degree. The hands on projects make the biggest difference and taught me things I never knew before.
It now all makes sense that BCU is known for producing some of the best professionals that end up in the industry. They know exactly where to focus in on and how to create success. This program is perfect for me and the goals I have set out for myself. It really has exceeded my expectations and I still have more to learn and experience!
BCU makes it possible for me to be able to be the best student athlete there is, while still maintaining my family and everything else I have attached to me. It can seem challenging at times, but the amazing supporting network of people make the biggest difference in my success.
I am extremely proud to be part of this HBCU. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me as I continue to grow as a in and outside of the classroom.