Peterson said the ESPNU crew was
engaging and accommodating. The students assisted the crew
with tasks for all aspects of the broadcast—play-by-play
announcer, sideline reporters, cameramen and equipment handlers.
“It turned out to be a very good, positive experience
for everybody, regardless of what they were doing,” Peterson
said. “I think they all learned something and just really
had a blast getting to know the ESPN news crew. Some people
are still staying in touch with some of the crew members.”
Charles Bierbauer, dean of the College of Mass Communications
and Information Studies, saw the students in action during
the match. He said the real-world experience was important
for the students because they recognized that there were “a
half dozen critical jobs behind the scenes” for every
anchor, reporter or commentator on camera.
“If you saw them on the air or in the gym, it was easy
to see our students were thrilled with the experience,” Bierbauer
said.
Peterson said both the students and the School benefited from
the exposure. The students gained experience working one-on-one
with industry professionals, while the J-school gained national
recognition and free publicity.
“Anything that’s good for the students is good
for the School,” he said. “If the opportunity comes
up again, I don’t think we would hesitate; we would do
it again because the students really learned a lot and had
a really good time.” |
