Presented by the Broadcast Media classes

Messmer Day at Marquette U

Approximately 50 students spent the day at Marquette University recently to check out the Communications Department and get a feel for college life. The field trip included hands-on activities for the students. One of the highlights was the Broadcast TV Studio. Messmer students took over the jobs of director, camera operator, on air reporter, switcher operator, floor director, and teleprompter operator. 
These were new experiences for many of the students, and a potential career path for some. Sophomore Precious Medley was enthusiastic about the field trip and said, "I enjoyed being behind the camera." 
The tour included the Journalism Department where the college students saw firsthand how the MU newspaper is put together. It was interesting to hear about all the job responsibilities, and how many times an article is read, edited, and rewritten before it makes it to print. Messmer students practiced being journalists by interviewing each other with tips from the MU students. Sophomore Itzia Gutierrez remarked, "We had learned how to interview in Broadcast Media class, but it was nice to learn more and interact with the college students."
The third activity was provided by the Theater Department. Drama exercises, games, and improvisation made for much creativity and fun. Senior Robert Thompson said, "It made me very energetic." 
Messmer alumni who attend Marquette answered questions about college life, and gave good advice about admissions, preparation for college, and how to make the transition from high school. Jeffrey Cross, Justine Shorter, and Amelia Mitcham were great role models for the current high schoolers, and showed just how well Messmer prepares students for college. 
The day ended with brief presentations on admissions, financial aid, and other support programs MU offers. When Senior Kaila Griffin "high-fived" Messmer Teacher Ms. Maripat Wilkinson on the bus ride home, it was clear the field trip to Marquette was a success. See the slide show at top left for more images from the day.