Radford University welcomed back one of its own, Marty Smith ’98, for a special production on March 23. Smith, now a prominent figure on ESPN, hosted a three-hour show called “Marty & McGee,” which was broadcast live from the School of Communication TV studio.
Students in Michael Meindl’s Media Production class played a crucial role in the production, providing assistance with various aspects of the show. Smith took to Facebook to express his gratitude, praising the dedication and professionalism of the students who volunteered their time for the event.
“SO grateful to the driven Radford University journalism students who woke in the 5am hour ON A SATURDAY to provide production and camera assistance for the entire three-hour Marty & McGee program on SEC Network. Their attitudes were wonderful. They dressed professionally and were inquisitive and eager. And their futures are very bright. That type of dedication makes great leaders, and will take them very far,” Smith wrote.
Paige Lake, a senior majoring in dance and media studies with a minor in public relations, shared her excitement about the opportunity. “My experience was wonderful! I never really thought that I would get the opportunity to work with someone like Marty Smith,” Lake said. “I saw this as an opportunity for me to get professional experience, meet a professional and possibly have a contact for my future.”
Lake elaborated on her responsibilities during the production, highlighting the dynamic nature of the roles assigned to the students.
“All of us took on similar responsibilities. We all helped set up the studio and create a set for Marty,” she explained. “I started in the control room, monitoring the video and making sure everything looked good. Eventually, I ended up in the studio working behind the camera.”
The experience was a match for her dream of becoming a floor director for a morning news show. “Since I was in the studio a lot, I got to hear Marty’s director or producer calling cues,” she said. “It really showed me exactly what I would need to do if I go into news.”
Ameek Batth, another senior involved in the production, described the experience as one of the most beneficial in his broadcasting career. “The opportunity to work with ESPN, understand the whole process, and watch professionals speak on camera tremendously improved my hands-on skills,” she said.
Batth, who is majoring in media studies with a minor in cinema studies and psychology, was responsible for managing the camera angles during the show. “If I heard any changes from their side, then I would execute them,” she said.
Looking ahead, Batth shared her career goal of becoming a cinematographer and working in documentary production. “This experience allowed me to understand how the professional realm of broadcasting works and how to be an effective speaker,” she said.
Marty Smith’s return to Radford University provided an invaluable learning experience for students interested in media production, offering them a glimpse into the world of professional broadcasting and inspiring them to pursue their career aspirations with confidence.