College Media Day in Kingsport Inspires Future Journalists with Learning and Fun

KINGSPORT — A Day of Learning and Fun at College Media Day

If you were out and about in Kingsport on Wednesday, you might have noticed a buzz of excitement at the local Times News office. Students from East Tennessee State University, Milligan University, and Emory & Henry University gathered for the much-anticipated College Media Day. It was a fantastic opportunity for future journalists to dive into the world of media, learn from professionals, and even sharpen their skills in friendly competitions.

Sunny Skies and a Warm Welcome

The weather added to the day’s cheer with the sun peeking through a few passing clouds, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for learning. With a high of 79°F and gentle winds, the students seemed ready to make the most of the event. However, evening plans hinted at a slight chance of rain, but that didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits!

Kickoff and Opening Remarks

The day kicked off with heartfelt opening remarks from the group publisher and chief operating officer of Six Rivers Media. His enthusiasm was infectious, as he encouraged students to ask questions and actively engage with the media professionals present. The students eagerly listened, soaking up the insights shared by seasoned reporters and editors.

Behind the Scenes

One of the highlights of the day was a tour of the printing area, led by the general manager of Six Rivers Media. Students were fascinated to see the inner workings of a newspaper office, especially the offset printing plates under yellow lighting to protect them from damage. This unique experience gave students a deeper understanding of how printed news comes to life.

Hands-On Activities

As the day progressed, students participated in various engaging activities. They got creative by piecing together a mock front page during a collaborative exercise, showcasing their budding journalistic skills. Additionally, the competition revved up during the AP Style Bowl, where students tested their knowledge of Associated Press style guidelines. The friendly competition culminated in some lively discussions and, of course, plenty of laughter.

Mock News Conference and Job Prep

Another engaging aspect of the day was a mock news conference led by the City of Kingsport’s communications specialist. Students were put in the hot seat, practicing their questioning techniques and gaining insights into how real-life press conferences unfold. This hands-on approach allowed the young journalists to build confidence and learn the nuances of media relations.

For those eyeing their first job in media, a dedicated session on job preparation was particularly helpful. Kingsport Times News reporters shared invaluable tips, from resume-building advice to interview techniques, ensuring students felt ready to step into the workforce.

Celebrating Achievements

As the day wrapped up, it was time to celebrate the accomplishments of students throughout the events. Alissa Smith, a Milligan University student, proudly held up a colorful comics umbrella she won for claiming the first place in the AP Style Bowl. Her enthusiasm was contagious, inspiring her peers. Meanwhile, Michael Ward, also from Milligan, received a swag bag for his third-place finish, proving that everyone walked away with something special.

The Future of Journalism

Reflecting on the day, the students left feeling inspired and equipped with new knowledge about the media landscape. With lessons learned from engaging activities and the expertise shared by professionals, these aspiring journalists are one step closer to achieving their dreams. The atmosphere buzzed with a sense of optimism for the future of journalism, thanks to events like College Media Day that foster enthusiasm and skills in the next generation of reporters.

As students depart from Kingsport after an enlightening day, it’s clear that the memories made and connections formed will lay the groundwork for their future careers in media.