Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Pembroke Park, FL- On a sunny Tuesday, March 5, 2024, students and faculty from United International College- UIC- embarked on an eye-opening visit to WPLG Local 10, a renowned television channel in South Florida. Led by Mayte Padron, the Community Relations Director of Local 10, the visit offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dynamic world of broadcast journalism and production.
The experience began with a captivating voyage through time, tracing the rich history of Local 10 since its inception in 1957. From its humble beginnings to its evolution through different locations, owners, and pivotal moments, the chronological exploration provided invaluable insights into the channel’s growth and impact on the local community.
Venturing further into the heart of the station, the group stepped into the bustling newsroom, an open space buzzing with activity as reporters worked tirelessly to cover breaking stories. With Mayte Padron’s guidance, visitors had the unique opportunity to stand at the reporters’ desks, immersing themselves in the adrenaline rush of recording a breaking news segment.
Amidst the flurry of activity, the group encountered William Damas, the Chief Photographer of Local 10. With over 19 years of experience, Damas shared his expertise in managing a team of photographers and editors, offering a glimpse into the meticulous process of capturing and editing news content. His dedication to excellence and attention to detail emphasizes the station’s commitment to delivering high-quality journalism.
Professor of Communications & Mass Media at UIC, Joey Lamar Ashley stated: “I am incredibly proud that our communications and business students had the opportunity to learn, first-hand about the importance and impact of broadcasting journalism and newsroom production on this tour. This is a pivotal time for mass media influence, and it’s always a great highlight for me to have our students at UIC come on these spectacular tours to really see that their passions are valid and that they can become the future storytellers of the newsroom.’’
Continuing their exploration, the group delved into the control and production rooms, witnessing the master control at work. Responsible for overseeing the technical operations of broadcasting, the master control team ensures the seamless transmission of programs, commercials, and other content. This critical behind-the-scenes role highlighted the intricate coordination required to maintain a flawless on-air experience for viewers.
Edward Espinoza, a Mass Media and Communications Bachelor student at UIC observed “It was really good and educational to get to know how things work behind the scenes. The responsibility that every person has to bring a clear message to the audience was really inspirational.”
The journey culminated in an unforgettable encounter with the faces of Local 10: anchors Kristi Krueger and Jenise Fernandez, along with weather producer Jordan Patrick. Warm and welcoming, the anchors graciously shared insights into their roles, while Jordan Patrick offered fascinating insights into the intricacies of weather forecasting and the use of green screens.
Reflecting on the visit, Mayte Padron emphasized the importance of exposing students to the diverse array of careers within the television industry. From journalism and production to meteorology and community outreach, Local 10 showcased the myriad opportunities available to aspiring professionals.
“It was a pleasure to host the multinational students of United International College at our Local 10 studios. The students’ varied interests in writing, editing, and animation speak to broadcast journalism’s mass appeal. We wish them continued success in the field and are honored to have played a role in their journey.” added Padron.
As the group bid farewell to Local 10, they departed with a newfound appreciation for the dedication and passion that fuels the world of broadcast journalism. The visit served as a testament to the power of storytelling and the vital role that media plays in shaping our understanding of the world around us.
“We are so grateful to Mayte Padron and WPLG for giving UIC Communications and Mass Media students the opportunity to witness the behind-the-scenes of their production studios. Media industry tours are highly inspirational for our students as they demonstrate what their future can become.” Dr. Marcela Moyano, Director of Communications and Advancement at UIC.
The visit to Local 10 Channel was made possible through the collaboration between the Communications and Mass Media program of United International College and the Community Relations Department of Local 10, exemplifying the importance of fostering connections between academia and industry to provide students with invaluable real-world experiences.
