The WDSC TV15 building on the Daytona Campus has been abuzz with activity as students in the college's television broadcasting program prepare to run their own live television show, Culture Compass. Brimming with students setting their cameras, running teleprompters, and testing microphones, this weekly production has become a platform for these budding media professionals to showcase their talents and explore diverse cultural narratives across Central Florida.

Empowering the Next Generation of Storytellers

Hands-on Learning in a Live TV Environment

For many students enrolled in the television broadcasting program, Culture Compass represents their first foray into the world of live television production. From camera operation and industry terminology to the high-pressure demands of a live show, these young creatives are gaining invaluable, real-world experience that will serve them well in their future careers."I'm feeling great [about working on my first live television show]," said Cameron Nicks, a student in the Fundamentals of Broadcast Production class. "I get the jitters sometimes, but I'm ready to get through it." This sentiment is echoed by his peers, who are eager to put their classroom lessons into practice and showcase their skills on a public platform.

Collaborative Efforts Across the Curriculum

The production of Culture Compass extends beyond the Fundamentals of Broadcast Production class, with students from the Team Media Production class also playing a crucial role. In this advanced course, students collaborate on group projects, taking on specialized roles such as editor, videographer, associate producer, and assistant director."[Producing and directing my own episode] opened my eyes to what I am able to accomplish," said Isabella Walker, a current student of the Team Media Production class. Walker's journey with the show began in the Producing for Television class, where she and her classmates pitched various television show ideas, ultimately securing the green light for Culture Compass.

A Diverse Tapestry of Cultural Narratives

Culture Compass has become a platform for showcasing the rich diversity of Central Florida, with episodes exploring a wide range of cultural themes, from body art and literature to Hispanic, gaming, fishing, skate, music, surfing, and Black cultures. These in-depth features not only educate the audience but also provide the student producers with valuable opportunities to hone their storytelling skills and gain a deeper understanding of the communities they serve."I absolutely love hosting Culture Compass," said Alexandra Bochis, the show's second-year student host. "It's such a blast to come in every Thursday and get to work with my talented classmates on a show that we're all really proud of." Bochis, who has been acting and performing since childhood, brings her passion and charisma to the forefront, captivating viewers and elevating the overall production value.

A Thriving Broadcast Ecosystem

The success of Culture Compass is a testament to the vibrant ecosystem of the WDSC TV15 program, where students, professors, and faculty collaborate to create a dynamic learning environment. The show's weekly broadcasts, reaching an audience of 13 million people across nine counties, not only showcase the talents of these aspiring broadcasters but also serve as a testament to the program's commitment to preparing the next generation of media professionals.As the students of the television broadcasting program continue to hone their skills and push the boundaries of their craft, the future of the industry looks brighter than ever. With the unwavering support of their mentors and the opportunity to shine on a live television platform, these young creatives are poised to make their mark on the world of broadcasting, one captivating story at a time.