There’s nothing like a surprise in a story, or, apparently, in a seminar.
Ellie Davis can attest to that. The U-W LaCrosse senior was sitting in the front row when Boyd Huppert came up and shook her hand during his presentation.
Huppert was talking about using “handshake shots” to introduce characters in his stories. Research shows that people form first impressions within one tenth of a second of meeting someone, so he carefully chooses shots when introducing story subjects. He wants viewers to form instant connections.
Connections. With nearly 40 media organizations at the job fair, industry professionals on panels, and faculty advisors from around the state, connections are a big part of the Student Forum at Lambeau Field.
For the second consecutive year, registration for the event topped 400. College and high school students attended seminars and heard inspiring comments from WGN-TV sports reporter/anchor Kaitlin Sharkey’s keynote address. They also got the chance to get professional headshots and participate in hands on activities such as reading teleprompters, using green screen, and conducting celebrity interviews. They wrapped up the day by cheering winners of the WBA Student Awards for Excellence.
Davis estimates she shook hands at least 100 times during the event, smiling and exuding confidence each time. She now knows one-tenth of a second counts as she looks for her first reporting job.
Mark Zoromski
Chair
WBA Education Committee
The WBA Young Professionals Toolbox event was held Friday, Feb. 21
