Chicago: Big Ten Network inspires sports journalism students
By Stephanie Stremplewski
Ten journalism students visited the Big Ten Network studio headquarters on Friday. Most of the students are interested in pursuing a career in sports journalism, preferably in television or radio.
“The biggest reason I chose to go there is because in television, sports and news work very close together,” said Molly Jirasek, a senior ambassador. “That’s something I’ve always recognized through working news and internships.”
Jirasek and junior Sam Rumpza are both involved with the Big Ten Student U on campus. They have had the opportunity to broadcast games ranging from Men’s basketball to Women’s soccer alongside other students. One of the stops along the tour was the control booth where the Big Ten Network producers communicate with the student producers during games.
“It was cool to be able to see where the magic happens,” Rumpza said. “You always hear in the headset during broadcasts when they go back to Chicago and to see that was really neat.”
Derek Reinglass, the public relations manager for BTN and our tour leader, received his master’s degree from IU in 2011. Post-graduation, Reinglass interned with the BTN and has never looked back.
“I was an intern when I started and I’ve been here ever since,” he said. “It’s been going on for three and a half years now.”
Big Ten Network provided these tips to up and coming professionals.
- Internships are key
If possible, intern with the organization that you hope to work for in the future. Additionally, intern with similar organizations to utilize skills and make more connections.
- Be adaptable
Be ready to adapt to certain situations that may occur in the working environment. Whether it’s adjusting to a company merger or updating details of a team’s logo, be prepared to face any challenges that may come your way.
- Teamwork, teamwork, teamwork
Many hands make light work, especially if it’s with people you can get along with. The Big Ten Network has a small crew with a big workload, so cooperation is a valuable asset.
- Have effective communication skills
Be able to work well with other people outside of the workforce. Work well with fans and customers because you will ultimately trust them with your brand.
- Be a utility player
Working a variety of jobs outside of your occupational focus can make your skills well-rounded, especially when it comes to understanding demographics and improving marketing.
Reinglass concluded the tour by showing us the main studio where the BTN broadcasts are filmed. Some students were surprised that a network with the word “big” in its name had smaller headquarters than ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut.
“I figured it would be a bigger office,” Rumpza said. “It was a one floor office building, but it was still cool to see where it all happens.”