By Stacey Tadlock

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — For School of Journalism and Strategic Media student Kendal Davis, the first week of her summer internship at FOX 17 News Nashville has already provided a firsthand look at the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism.

Davis was selected for the highly competitive opportunity after completing multiple rounds of interviews. During the 10-week internship, she will rotate through various departments across the newsroom, gaining experience in areas ranging from digital media and social content creation to reporting and production.

Her first week focused on FOX 17’s digital and social media operations, where she quickly found herself contributing to the station’s daily coverage. One of the highlights was helping cover the FIFA World Cup Watch Party at GEODIS Park in Nashville. Davis assisted with creating and posting social media content, setting up equipment for live shots, and engaging with fans attending the event.

“What has surprised me most is how much responsibility I’ve already been trusted with,” Davis said. “In just one week, I’ve helped create social media content, written stories, worked alongside multiple newsroom departments and learned firsthand how a professional newsroom operates.”

The experience has also allowed Davis to learn from professionals across the station, including reporters, anchors, producers, engineers, photographers and newsroom leadership.

While the internship is providing valuable real-world experience, Davis said her coursework and hands-on opportunities in the MTSU Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment helped prepare her to contribute from day one.

“From reporting and writing stories to producing content and working under real deadlines, I found myself using lessons from class almost immediately,” she said.

Davis credits School of Journalism and Strategic Media faculty members Dan and Christine Eschenfelder for helping shape her development as a multimedia journalist.

“They have consistently pushed me to grow, challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and provided opportunities that helped build my confidence,” Davis said.

She said experiences with Middle Tennessee News and Middle Tennessee Sports also helped prepare her for the demands of a professional newsroom, reinforcing the practical, hands-on approach that defines the MTSU experience.

The internship is just getting started, and Davis says she is excited for what lies ahead throughout the summer.

“Every day confirms that broadcast journalism is exactly where I am meant to be,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what the next nine weeks have in store.”

—   Stacey Tadlock ([email protected])