The annual J-Day showcases TROY's journalism and communications program

The Hall School of Journalism and Communication hosted its annual J-Day event on Wednesday, drawing over 200 high school students from Alabama and Florida to campus.

Groups of students listened to presentations from Troy University faculty, staff, students and alumni throughout the morning. The event was funded by a grant from the Alabama Press Association.

“J-Day was really successful,” said Dr. Stefanie East, J-Day co-chair and assistant professor at the Hall School. “We had a really great group of students who were really engaged and willing to learn. They were ready to see what Troy University, and especially the Hall School of Journalism and Communication, had to offer.”

Each group heard three different presentations – out of ten options – depending on their area of ​​interest. The workshops included broadcasting, design, interviews, sports journalism and many other sessions on journalism topics.

“We wanted to get students excited about journalism,” East said. “We were very fortunate to have some of our alumni as well as the president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association come back to give workshops on ethical communicators.”

J-Day was smaller this year than in previous years, so the workshops were more practical.

“We strategically made the sessions a little more concise and smaller to give students more experience,” East said. “Students were able to do more hands-on things that they hadn’t been able to do in the past.”

HSJC student ambassadors helped students navigate campus and answered questions about the university and the program.

“It was so refreshing to represent the university and especially the Hall School of Journalism and Communication,” said Kathryn Clark, Tropolitan student ambassador and news editor. “Being able to help with J-Day reminded me of my first journalism event and coming here as a newbie with no experience. I’m excited that these students will have a head start in the journalism community.”

The importance of ethical journalism was emphasized throughout the day. Sharon Tinsley, president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, gave a talk on fair and balanced journalism.

“Journalism is part of the foundation of our society,” Tinsley said. “We need journalism every step of the way to make sure people know the facts.”