Even though I come from the journalism field and am teaching what I know through experience, there are times when I don't know everything or wish for students to gain a different perspective. It's during those times when I bring in guest speakers.
This semester I was fortunate enough to bring in several experts in their fields to two of my classes. A few of the speakers showcased their work and talked about what they do for a living, while others were open to being interviewed in joint sessions for stories and press releases.
Wayne State University
For the digital photojournalism class at WSU, my students were fortunate enough to have in their presence award-winning photojournalist and educator Eric Seals, of the Detroit Free Press.
I've known Eric for many years. We would bump into each other while covering mutual stories and he was always kind. That said, to have someone of his caliber take an hour of his day to give back was truly an honor.
The timing for his visit was just right because the students were preparing for their final assignment: video storytelling. Eric prepared a slideshow that and took them through his journey. Not only did he show off his wonderful work, but he taught them how to think about video storytelling.
It was his second time to be a guest speaker in that classroom, and I'm confident there will be a third, considering teaching in his blood. He coaches at various workshops, including the NPPA Multimedia Immersion at Syracuse University, the Missouri Photo Workshop and Western Kentucky University's Mountain Workshop, just to name a few.
He also embraces the 'reach one, teach one' philosophy and believes in mentoring others.
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| Eric Seals |
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| A Powerpoint slide on video storytelling. |
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| The WSU digital photojournalism class. |
University of Toledo
Although I typically instruct photojournalism and multimedia courses, occasionally I'll get a class that goes back to my writing roots: media writing 1, which I taught for the second time this semester.
This class is one of my favorites because writing is my strongest skill. I was an award-winning print journalist and newspaper editor in the military for 21 years, and that's where I honed my writing ability.
However, most people know me as a photojournalist, but I've always thought of myself as a journalist trapped in a photojournalist's career. I don't regret those 30 years of photojournalism, first as an Associated Press stringer, then 26 years at the Toledo Blade, because it made me a well-rounded storyteller.
The media writing class is a wonderful challenge because I'm teaching not only newswriting, but how to write press releases and TV broadcast scripts, as well. Not my expertise.
So, when your not the most experienced at certain things, bring in the those who are! I want to thank my three guest speakers:
- Verification producer at CBS News James LaPorta
- Former Blade reporter and current Owens Community College marketing coordinator Jeff Schmucker
- Former Blade reporter and current UToledo media relations specialist Nicki Gorny
- WTOL managing editor Josh Love
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| Jeff Schmucker |
First up was James LaPorta, a former Marine who transitioned into journalism after exiting from the military. He joined us via Zoom.
James has quite a story to tell so it might be worth listening to the Sword and Pen podcast I did with him recently. He talked about being a consultant for Hollywood, breaking into journalism with no experience or journalism degree, and being laid off without a warning.
Next up was Jeff. When we started our marketing/PR press release writing module, Jeff was called to share his experience as a former reporter who turned 'to the dark side.' No, it's not really the dark side; it's an old saying reporters quip when journalists leave the news business for PR. It's actually very common, especially in Toledo. You'll find former reporters working in government, at colleges and at marketing firms. The pay is better, and so are the hours. But I'll save that conversation for another day ...
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| Nicki Gorny |
Nicki held a joint interview session with about 40 students, who were tasked to interview Nicki about the upcoming eclipse event UToledo was holding, and then write a mock press release for the local media about it. (You can view my students' written press releases by going to the UToledo student roster on this blog's homepage and clicking on their websites.)
Last but not least was Josh, who visited the class during the broadcast writing portion of the course. He told us what it was like to be a TV news producer, and what it was like working at WTOL. Josh is actually a UToledo alumni, so welcome back, Josh!
Professionals who give back are the cornerstone of learning. It gives the students a glimpse into the 'real world' because they are living it. Guest speakers are invaluable and I appreciate them!
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| Josh Love and me with my awesome students! |
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