Mass Communications digital media students get hands-on experience during Atlanta field trip

Students from Winston-Salem State University’s Mass Communications program embarked on a field trip to Atlanta during fall break, immersing themselves in the world of film and media.

A highlight of the trip was the opportunity for students to shadow various positions on a two-day independent film shoot, “Nature of the Threat,” where they gained hands-on experience in real-world filmmaking scenarios.

The experience included a tour of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), known for its graduate programs in acting, film, design, fashion and photography. Students toured with SCAD graduates, gaining insights into the creative processes that shape successful careers in the industry.

Students also dined with seasoned filmmakers, fostering meaningful connections and learning about their diverse experiences in the film industry.

WSSU Mass Communications alumni and filmmakers LaToya Yeargans, class of 2007, and Antonio Degraffenreaidt, class of 2011, made the experience possible by sponsoring a competition where students submitted a film story treatment.

“You can just tell the students are excited about film. They have a lot of energy, and I can respect that because I remember being a WSSU student wanting the opportunity to get my hands dirty, being on set, and they actually got that opportunity.  I hope they learned a lot from us,” Yeargans said.

The mentorship and support of mass communications alumni empower the next generation of media professionals.

“I think it’s really important for students to have an opportunity to see what the world is like before being thrown into it and figuring out how to survive. This hands-on experience gives them an extra step when they get ready to jump into the real world,” Degraffenreaidt said.

Mass communications senior Leilani Lespiegle explained the benefits of shadowing professionals on a film set.

“I got to shadow the director of photography. That was cool because I like to do cinematography as well as directing.  I learned that some directors in filmmaking both direct and shoot. I feel like that is something I would love to do. So just learning things like that and networking and seeing people’s creative mindset is really life-changing,” Lespiegle said.

The trip exemplifies student empowerment through education and experience, reinforcing WSSU’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in media and communication.

“Our special sauce in mass communications digital media is teaching students how to create, collaborate and communicate through hands-on experiences because employers demand these skills in today’s media world,” said Todd Davis, WSSU communication and media studies instructor, who served as the field trip’s mass communications digital media faculty advisor. “Mass communications alumni are creative leaders in media, journalism, business, government, entertainment and education.”

Mass communications students, Shey Singleton, left, and Alaina Moody, center, tour SCAD's film studio. 

 Producer LaToya Yeargans, left, confers with mass communications grad Eboni Hayes, center, and film director Edward Varnie, right.