Journalism students hoping to get some hands-on job experience and college credit without the hassle of an internship need look no further than Memphis' own Department of Journalism.
"Insight," a weekly television newscast, is created, anchored and produced by U of M students.
"We do everything there is to do in a newscast," said Marcus Washington, a senior Journalism major and part of the Insight crew.The class, which provides three hours worth of academic credit, is not required, but students are strongly urged to participate.
Lou Paris, part of the Insight team, has worked professionally in the medium and hopes more students will get involved.
"(This class) is a pretty good facsimile to the real world in the writing and reporting aspects as well as for gaining television skills," he said. "I'm sorry this is not a required course."
Coupled with the Department of Communications, journalism students find, write and edit stories as well as serve as news anchors. Communications students stick with the technical, behind-the-scenes side of the newscast like directing, operating studio cameras and the audio board.
"We follow the recipe that the journalism students have created, (in terms of) what light to use, and which audio element, for example," said Barbara Cook-Overton, a communications professor.
To become involved, students must apply, write a letter and present a résumé before being selected, said Dr. Dana Rosengard, Insight news director.
Students are primarily selected through their work in prerequisite courses.
For future journalism professionals, Insight may provide a more realistic view of the business.
"(The broadcast business) may look like it's fun and easy, but you have to have the will for it," Washington said. "It's hard work behind the scenes."
Much like an internship, students are able to get some experience under their belts and get that extra edge for future job positions."So many people are coming out with experience like this," Paris said.
"This class is a good opportunity to get their audition tapes."Insight airs Tuesday and Wednesday at 1 p.m. and Friday and Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on Time Warner channel five and Digital Cable channel 21.
