"With student-led campus protests on the rise and polarization intensifying on both sides of the political spectrum, the need to have students media ready is mounting. For example, in recent weeks students rallied across the U.S. because of the Trump administration's assault on higher education; protests broke out at the University of California, Berkeley, during an event held by Turning Point USA; and students at the University of Florida protested the university's deal with ICE."
"While it will make your life easier in the long run, it does require you to put in the time up front. Meet students on their timelines. Most student group meetings are outside of class time, so it might mean you are attending a student government association meeting at 8 p.m. or doing a Zoom training with the College Democrats or Republicans on your lunch break."
"It helps students and the community navigate crisis situations. With protests becoming regular occurrences on our campuses and in our communities, media training students will help them remain calm under pressure. When a reporter is looking for a comment, students won't just say the first thing that pops into their mind. They will know how to get their key messages across to the audiences they are trying to reach."
Student-led campus protests and political polarization have increased demand for media-ready students. U.S. colleges have experienced thousands of protest days, numerous encampments, and widespread student participation. Media training provides a ready roster of students for reporters, reducing the need to scramble for spokespeople and vet sources during news cycles. Training requires upfront time and flexible scheduling to meet student availability, including evenings or lunchtime sessions. Media training also prepares students to stay calm in crises, avoid off-the-cuff comments, and communicate key messages effectively to target audiences, benefiting both students and institutional crisis communication.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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