Aelyn Thompson of Waverly participates in UNL Media Academy

2016 Jun 24

Aelyn Thompson of Waverly, a student at Waverly High School, was among 21 high school students from Nebraska and Illinois who participated in the second annual UNL Media Academy June 12-15.

The academy was hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Trina Creighton, professor of broadcasting, and Kelli Britten, advertising and public relations lecturer, led the students in sessions on journalism, broadcasting, and advertising and public relations.

The academy aimed to provide the students with opportunities and experiences that would give them a sense of what it's like to have a career in media.

"The students really enjoyed their experience at the college and on campus," Britten said. "We had a packed schedule to expose them to all three of our majors and businesses across Lincoln that hire students with the skills they learn at the CoJMC. If these students are any indication, the future is bright for the next generation of media professionals."

The students toured the Husker Athletic Department, State Capitol and local advertising agencies. They also had the opportunity to observe a KLKN newscast from inside the studio.

The students completed photojournalism projects, wrote blog posts, anchored broadcasts and honed their social media skills as part of the learning sessions. To see the students' work, visit http://www.unlmediaacademy.com.

Attendees stayed on campus in Neihardt Hall along with their team leaders, six College of Journalism and Mass Communications students and recent graduates who served as mentors. They also participated in a scavenger hunt around campus and downtown Lincoln and did team-building activities.

"It was such a great time to be able to share my passion for media with these students who were eager to learn more about the industry and the college itself," said Hayley Archer, team leader. "Even in just a few days, we got to see them grow as aspiring journalists, which was really cool."

Archer was joined by team leaders Joey Hoile, Nathan Hittle, Selena Aguilar, Mecca Slaughter and Maddi Essay.