On Thursday, September 26th, from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm in the Industrial Technology Building the Mass Communications Department at Alcorn State University (ASU) hosted its annual Lunch and Learn with Micheal White Jr, Director of Operations, at the Gray Media Training Center located at WLBT in Jackson, Mississippi.
This annual event is hosted to bring together Mass Communications students to learn about various internships and career opportunities within the Training Center.
The paid 15-week internship program is designed to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the media sector while also preparing students for the various business environments of the modern era. With a focus on Mississippi’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Center aspires to lead, instruct and develop students from these institutions.
White stated, “It’s extremely important for students at ASU to understand that they have a unique opportunity in the field of Broadcasting. Today’s Lunch and Learn session was to give students the chance to learn about the Gray Media Training Center.” Also, during the session, students got the chance to experiment with the camera and microphone that interns, eventually reports/anchors, get to use when they go out and shoot stories.
Selected participants in the Center’s programs will gain knowledge of contemporary Broadcast and Digital Journalism practices. In addition, they will receive hands-on instruction in Marketing, Coding, Engineering, Sales, Operations, IT, and News creation. A weekly public affairs program will be produced by Training Center fellows, who will also serve as host, director, producer, and editor. Senior Mass Communications student, Martiyona Carter, stated, “I learned that doing news and anchoring can be challenging but don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.”
As a result of the paid internship with Gray Television intern’s portfolio and resume will grow. It will also provide them with opportunities to start full-time employment with the company. Armed with the internship training, the program places individuals ahead of the competition for full-time career opportunities. “I really hope that the students enjoyed the session. My hope is that they are ready for the opportunity to potentially work for Gray Media Inc. and WLBT,” said White.
(Photo Credit: Michael White)