National Geographic Producers Share Media Industry Insights with MVB Students

On May 26th and May 29th, students in Martin Van Buren High School’s media program had the opportunity to learn from professionals connected to National Geographic and Disney+. The special presentations focused on storytelling, journalism, documentary production, and careers in the media industry. The events gave students valuable insight into how professional media projects are developed and shared with audiences around the world.

During the presentations, MVB students met with two producers, Madi Phillips and Dana Hayes, through Zoom. The producers shared their experiences working in documentary production and discussed the challenges involved in creating high-quality media content. They explained the production process from planning and filming to editing and final publication, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at how documentaries are made.

Students also learned about the importance of storytelling, interviewing techniques, editing, and accurate reporting. The producers discussed how media professionals work together to create engaging content while maintaining journalistic integrity. They shared examples from their own careers and highlighted the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

In addition, Ms. Choriatis spoke about her work on the National Geographic and Disney+ series Do Not Attempt, which featured world-renowned magician David Blaine. Her involvement in the production gave students a firsthand example of how media professionals contribute to large-scale projects that reach global audiences.

The presentations also included discussions about media careers and the future of the industry. Students learned about potential career pathways in journalism, documentary filmmaking, photography, digital media, and production. The speakers offered advice on developing creative skills, building strong portfolios, and preparing for future opportunities in media and communications.

Students participated in a question-and-answer session where they asked about internships, industry trends, and the experiences of working in professional media environments. The conversations provided valuable guidance and inspiration for students interested in pursuing careers in media.

The visits on May 26th and May 29th gave MVB students a unique opportunity to connect classroom lessons with real-world experiences. By hearing directly from industry professionals, students gained a deeper understanding of storytelling, documentary production, and the many opportunities available in the evolving world of media.