Kaleb Knowles is enjoying his experiences so far as an undergraduate student in the Communications/Sports Journalism program. He has extended his interest and experiences in the major by participating in one of the College’s media clubs: Springfield College Television (SCTV3). Through this club, Kaleb participates in a weekly TV program on Thursday evenings and also conducts interviews around campus to feature on the show. He knows these experiences will help him reach his career goal of becoming a sports broadcaster.
Ever since I was a freshman in high school, I've known what I've wanted to do with my life. My dreams of getting on TV or radio and becoming a sports broadcaster have danced in my brain for years. I had set out a plan and a goal; the hardest part for me was figuring out how to get there. When searching for a college where I would spend the next four years, I wanted to choose a place where I could contribute immediately. Springfield College was the place for me. As soon as I arrived on campus, I was approached to join the Springfield College Television Club. Once I joined, I never looked back.
SCTV3 has provided me with endless opportunities to learn and develop my multimedia journalism skills. From script writing to framing rules to editing, I have been able to apply what I learned in classes, and more. The experience gives me the chance to showcase my talents to a wider audience and gives me the sense of accomplishment week in and week out. Throughout my whole life, I have always been heavily invested in sports. Whether it was watching or playing, the routine of practicing my craft was something I had always been accustomed to. Now my craft is developing the best media production I can each week.
Every Thursday at 7:00 PM, we air our weekly television show. There are so many elements that go into a good show. From the production crew, to the on-air anchors, to the people who run the social media. Everyone has a role, and everyone contributes. For me, the ability to grow my communication skills through live on-air shows has been a huge step in my growth as a journalist. The shows have allowed me to become comfortable with my own voice and grow confidence in my future endeavors.
This club is not just any club; it has become a place where I have grown incredible connections with people around campus as well. When covering a story, I get the chance to show what Springfield College has to offer. Everyone has a story, and there are so many beautiful stories to be told on campus. Whether it's a campus event or a national headline, the ability to go out and cover these stories with my camera and tripod has allowed me to connect with so many different people I may not have known otherwise.
Through student media, I have learned many skills through practice and repetition. My creativity and confidence in my voice have expanded far beyond just the classroom. I have been able to put together plenty of quality work to put on my future job resume. I have also been able to call sports games through my time with the TV club. This element has by far been the most helpful for me. Being able to get in the booth, learn how to prepare, and call games has been the best learning experience I could ask for in my first two years of college. The only way to improve in the field of broadcast journalism is to practice. SCTV3 has given me a tremendous opportunity to practice every week.
If you are a current student with an interest in reporting news stories, getting live air experience, or writing scripts, I encourage you to check out SCTV3. Contact our faculty advisor, Jeremy Menard, at jmenard@springfield.edu for more information.
About the author
Kaleb is a sophomore in the Communications/Sports Journalism program at Springfield College. Originally from Maine, Kaleb chose Springfield College to pursue a career in sports broadcasting. His dream is to broadcast collegiate and professional baseball, basketball, and football.
