Opportunities for students within the Reinhardt University Communication Department include hands-on experience in live sports production in a professional setting. Here, Caitlin Brown (RU-2026) shares her first-hand account.
By Caitlin Brown (RU-2026)
When I changed my major to Film and Television Production, I wasn’t yet aware of how large the world of opportunities would become open to me. My advisor and professor Christine Dean suggested I work on a show in Atlanta called Deep South Wrestling (DSW). I wasn’t particularly interested in wrestling, or sports in general. Still, I decided to go for the experience, not knowing it would become an extended experience and an environment where I could learn and hone my production skills.
For the last few shows, I set up, took down, and operated the hard cameras, which are the two cameras that tend to move the least. I set one camera as a stationary wide shot while using the second camera to follow the wrestlers. Learning how to do that was tedious, but enlightening. By my third show, I became mostly independent. I say mostly because I learn something new every time I work. I also had the chance to watch and assist other production team members and occasionally help them set up or take down their equipment, so I’m also learning additional aspects of production.
Working in a professional setting provides an invaluable experience helping me discern what I enjoy and what career paths to pursue, while expanding my skills and allowing room for growth. Everyone who participated in the productions of these shows has been patient and encouraging.
Dean continually seeks professional opportunities for her students and has many more to come, “I’m excited to see students benefit from these experiences, find their niche, and make connections.”
– Caitlyn Brown is a junior from Canton, GA. She also serves as a work-study student in the Division of Advancement and Communications.
