By: Cora Fassett
Broadcast and cinematic arts. Those words are a bit daunting, aren’t they? Don’t let them be. The BCA program at Central Michigan University surrounds media, whether television, radio, film or social media.
I first became familiar with the program because of my mom. She is an alumna who got her master’s degree in BCA. I always thought it was fascinating to hear what she had to do in her classes. She would write news stories, produce live television and critique movies and TV shows in her classes.
My dad also influenced my decision to study this field. He took some BCA classes and was a radio DJ for CMU’s student-run radio station, WMHW 91.5 FM. Hearing this information made me realize that having a BCA minor can give me unique opportunities to make me a better job candidate.
As a BCA minor, I have learned how to edit audio and video, critique media, write news stories, make video storyboards and so much more. Through these classes, I have met and become close with many aspiring journalists. Integrative public relations students have been told countless times that having relationships with journalists while in the field is crucial to being a great PR professional.
Furthermore, thanks to an audio production class required for the minor, I had an experience that helped me host my own radio segment. Every Thursday, like my dad, I would go on air for an hour and talk about music and entertainment news on WMHW 91.5 FM. Through my time at the station, I learned how radio works through hands-on training. I can apply this experience to my PR career because I have a first-hand understanding of the local radio power, which is often overlooked. Not only that, but I know how to write messages that translate well to audiences over the air.
If you are an IPR student looking to add on a minor, consider BCA. You’ll gain experience and an understanding of the media that you can’t have without this minor.