The land of the Mouse: Interns get a taste of the world of television at ABC7NY
On April 17, a group of interns mainly participating in the Brooklyn Recovery Corps program at Medgar Evers College made the trek uptown to visit the land of Mickey Mouse.
No, not the Disney Store in Times Square, but the country’s largest news station at ABC7 New York.
It was an immersive experience for the students, exposing them to the production of the Eyewitness News at Noon broadcast with David Novarro, Sandra Bookman and Brittany Bell, as well as a visit to the Live with Kelly and Mark set just after the dynamic duo celebrated one year on the air together.
The guides of the tour? A pair of vice presidents in Porsha Grant and Rhonda Lamon, providing insider tips on how to not only get involved in the journalism business, but also how companies such as ABC are also opportunities for those that want to be accountants, security, IT, legal, human resources and engineers, among many other career paths.
One of the biggest pieces of advice to the group from Ms. Grant and Ms. Lamon?
Write. Write. Write. And write some more.
So, the students did just that — to provide some key takeaways from the afternoon at 7 Lincoln Square:
Debbie Ann Byfield
Senior, Biology
The tour of the ABC7 studios was a truly engaging and informative experience. Ms. Porsha Grant and Ms. Rhonda Lamon led us through the facilities, revealing the intricacies of television news production. Witnessing the team’s synchronized efforts to deliver the news on our screens highlighted the complexity and dedication required for such a process. What stood out to me was the collaborative nature of the operation, with each team member contributing to the news writing process. Ms. Grant and Ms. Lamon’s enthusiasm and knowledge made the tour both fascinating and thrilling. All in all, it was an eye-opening experience that left me with a newfound appreciation for the work that goes into delivering the news.
Awa Diallo
Junior, Business
I enjoyed the diversity of the places we visited during the trip. It made me feel like I could belong anywhere, as long as I put in the effort and remain committed to my goals. I learned that giving up is not an option if you want to succeed in life. When your heart is set on something, you must go for it, otherwise, you’ll remain stuck in the same place. I loved that our tour guides were black women. Their confidence, determination, and resilience motivated me to better myself. I will not let my skin color stop me from entering any place or achieving anything that I set my mind to. In addition, the coordination and cooperation among the different rooms and people were amazing. I now understand that what goes on behind the scenes regarding news reporting is not an easy task, and these people work hard to deliver the best possible experience for our convenience, which I salute them for. Overall, the trip was enriching and inspiring. I was amazed by everything that I saw and experienced.
Sheray Goday
Junior, Social Work
Visiting ABC7 was an amazing experience, one that was truly important for someone like me. One of the biggest takeaways from the visit to ABC7 was the newsroom culture. I felt a positive energy as I met each of the professionals who assisted us during the tour. Witnessing their fast-paced and organized environment only reminded me of myself, taking in how everyone still did their jobs (with little time to spare!) while giving us a tour and conversing with us all at the same time. To see how everyone worked together as a team while commuting from one room to the next, gave me a boost of energy, especially since I have always been curious to see what goes on behind the scenes at a news station. Getting that behind-the-scenes insight, showed me how important teamwork is — especially when reflecting back on the history of how African Americans had many challenges (and continue to have) in career fields like television. I grasped on to the words of their journeys in their careers and the words of encouragement that were given to the group, about never giving up and always taking advantage of opportunities that can put someone like me into better positions in life.
Shanea Grant
Sophomore, Biology
I really appreciate this visit, it helped me realize that it’s more than what I’ve thought about filming. The work they have to put in and also being able to multitask was incredible. I really admire the way how they just get into character very fast, it’s really impressive and to see that with my own eyes was a very good experience. It was enlightening to see the inner workings of a such major news organization, to witness how news is produced and to see writers at work in person. It was a pleasure to see the technologies and process behind bringing news to the public. The most incredible part for me was reading the weather and how she had to move around from being on around the table to going back to read the forecast.
Geraldyne Raphael
Senior, Public Administration
I didn’t go on this trip thinking about my career or looking for a different one. I went because I love behind-the-scenes work and filming as a hobby. I also love expanding my horizons and gaining interest into different career paths. Going to ABC and seeing the behind-the-scenes life in action left me amazed. Actually seeing it and all the people it takes to make it possible was inspiring. I’ve always known about the different law fields, but not how they actually look in theory or if I’d enjoy them. But seeing where I can fit in, even if I decide to use my law degree or not, was a great experience. Another takeaway is that there’s literally a spot for everyone and every degree. Even if you didn’t get a specific degree, experience, training, and especially writing and who you know/networking are the keys. I wish for every student to see this because it’ll show you how much more you can do beyond your current field of study. Hearing about both Rhonda and Porsha’s journeys was inspiring, especially with them being black or POC women.
Christopher Richards
Senior, Computer Information Systems
The trip was very informative. I got to witness how everything works behind the scenes of a news channel. Everything was fast paced, and the energy level was always up. Communication is key when working in a place like this. I enjoyed watching the news anchors and weather woman go to work live and still be able to make time for the guests in attendance.
Alexus Rose
Freshman, Science
I am so happy I was able to be a part of this experience. It was amazing to be face to face with the technology they use behind the scenes to cast everyday news in New York. Porsha and Rhonda were amazing with the tour and sharing all their experiences working for ABC7. It is astounding to know that there are people from all backgrounds who make up incredible organizations such as ABC7. Growing up as a little girl I always wondered what the behind the scenes of a weather forecast looked like. I was able to experience and see how they use a green screen. I got to see how AI (Artificial Intelligence) is in effect within a company. When we were in the camera room, the men were using computers and a mic to help position the cameras while casting, there was no more camera man. Instead the cameras move because of their voice positioning them and that is unbelievable until you actually see it for yourself. This visit will be unforgettable and made me think there’s so much you can make out of life just by writing and networking. I want to say thank you to the staff at Medgar Evers College for reaching out to ABC7 and making this visit and experience possible for us students. Also, I want to thank Porsha and Rhonda for taking the time to make sure we had the best experience, answered all our questions and provided us with information on what ABC7 is all about behind the TV screen.
Hamou Soumare
Senior, Computer Information Systems
I gained a deeper understanding of how a major television network operates and my interaction with the IT team not only provided insights into the intersection of technology and broadcasting, but also helped me envision potential career paths within the industry.
James Viafara
Freshman, Public Administration
Visiting the ABC7 studios was an enriching experience. My perspective on broadcast news shifted from studying reports for public administration courses to walking the floor where political reports are written and speaking with newscast directors in the control room. Ms. Porsha Grant and Ms. Rhonda Lamon are truly remarkable; their initiative and years of expertise in executive direction are admirable. Learning about their arduous work and hours of administration was motivating. Learning about the role every citizen plays in the newscast is essential; It is a crucial step to speak up. ABC receives numerous calls daily from citizens who help their program, fieldwork is analyzed and fact-checked intensively to keep people informed. Reporters serve as an echoing voice of our community and the issues impacting us all. I am grateful to the Brooklyn Recovery Corps, Mr. Peter Holoman, and Mr. Nick Masuda for the opportunity to attend this program.
