B1G+ StudentU is a wonderful organization that aims to give students real-life experience producing live sports broadcasts. Joining the program in the Fall of 2022, I did not know anything relating to the production of live sporting events. My time with the organization has exposed me to all aspects of such productions, including graphics, audio production, directing, producing, replay operation, and camera operation. On top of this exposure, I am highly skilled with EVS replay operation as well as multiple camera positions.
While this experience in the field is valuable for future work in the position, the job also requires teamwork, quick thinking under stressful situations, and a creative eye, which are good traits to have in any field. Working with all the different aspects of production requires excellent communication and teamwork skills for everyone to do their jobs and produce a great show. The stressful situations caused by live broadcasting require a calm mind and quick thinking to navigate, which translates well to any industry that requires working well with others.
Because of the nature of my situation, my work with StudentU also showcases my ability to learn foreign material quickly. During my first semester in the program, I had absolutely no experience with camera operation. I hadn’t used more than a cell phone camera in my life. I was forced to quickly learn everything I needed to succeed in my first operating shift. This ability to learn new skills on the fly will help me throughout my life, personally and professionally.