There have been many things to learn in this News Media Practicum course. Going in, it did not seem like it would be a very rigorous class being only one credit. However, little did I know, it requires a lot of time. Doing 36 hours of media related work will make me a much smarter person in the field of communication. There is a lot to learn in class, too. Everyone has to report on a television/news related story and it is very informative. So between doing extra-curricular work and in-class work, I have been able to pick up on quite a bit.
Outside class for the 36 hours, there will be a lot of work to do. Sports seasons are starting to carry on, and teams are starting to get their identities. The main sports playing now are men's and women's soccer, and volleyball. Both the tennis teams are playing a little bit as well in out-of-season tournaments. There have been a couple opportunities to video tape these events. Personally, I've been able to work behind the scenes of two volleyball games and a women's soccer game. During these, I learned how to film each sport. There are also designated people that take notes to record highlights that happen on camera. They make the editor's job much easier. By filming games, you're also forced to pay attention and really learn about the sports. I did not know much about volleyball and soccer until this semester forced me. This process also made me realize how many jobs and people it takes to make a sports show work. There are people behind the camera, people in front of it, editors, script writers, directors, etc. It's all somewhat overwhelming because there are a lot of new things worth learning how to do. Even taking film out of the camera and putting in a new tape impresses me. And at this point in time, I've only completed about one-fourth of the hours that are required. So there are many more things that I will pick up on.
There is a lot to learn inside of the classroom as well. Every week, about 4 or 5 people come in and present a researched article that seems to always be informative. I've learned a lot more about facebook, youtube, HD televisions, 3D imaging, etc. It's cool how my classmates get involved in discussions, too. Everybody certainly has their own unique opinions about things. When I presented, I learned a lot just from that little assignment. Yes, I had to research a topic and figured out more interesting things about youtube. However, the biggest thing was the exposure I got at public speaking. I need a lot of practice in that; i still get nervous and probably fidget around quite a lot, holding onto the podium for dear life. I was not even that scared originally until I had to walk up and watch all the people looking at me. But if I ever want to be an anchor, I will need as much exposure as I can get.
All in all, this class has surprised me. I went in thinking it would be no big deal because it was just one measly hour a week. But I quickly figured out that there is a lot of learning that goes with it, and this will sufficiently help me get prepared for my future career as an anchor. So much time and effort is required outside of class, that it really makes everybody's time worth while. And every Wednesday at 4 I can always count on hearing something brand new in the media world. It certainly keeps me informed. I'm excited and looking forward to learn from the second part of this semester, watching the sporting events and attending all the media shows.
