Degree in Broadcasting Lands Alumna Nikki Porter On-Air Job at WDTV/WVFX Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Meet Nikki Porter
Degree earned: B.A. in broadcasting reporting with a minor in multimedia, 2010
Job title and employer: Anchor, producer and reporter at WDTV/WVFX, Bridgeport, W.Va.
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Now living in: Bridgeport, W.Va.
High School: Seton-La Salle High School
College activities: College Students in Broadcasting, United Student Government and Pioneer Sideline
Hobbies/interests: Working out, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with family and friends
Why did you choose to attend Point Park for broadcasting?
I heard so many great things about the broadcasting program at Point Park. As a senior in high school, I participated in Point Park's High School Media Day program. I met Professor Helen Fallon and I fell in love with the school. I loved being in a city, right in the heart of the news and close to big news agencies. I knew the professors had real-world work experience and that they would be able to share that to help me in my career.
Please list any internships you held as a student.
- KDKA-TV, assignment desk and sports and special programming intern
- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, multimedia intern
What are some of your favorite Point Park memories?
I had the chance to do a live interview with the late Arlen Specter, and another favorite memory was working with Pioneer Sideline when we switched over to recording our first live show. They were both great opportunities with a real-world feel!
In what ways has Point Park helped you reach your goals?
The School of Communication professors were really in tune with how things were done in the business, because most of them are still actively working in it. Technically speaking, when I was in the program, editing was an optional class. If I hadn't taken that, I can't imagine how hard it would be considering the time crunch you can be under during a crazy news day.
Also, small things like current events quizzes helped me realize how important it is to know what is going on. I owe a lot to my professors who led me to getting the perfect job doing what I love, right out of college!
What is a typical day like for you?
I go into work at 2 p.m., and depending on what day it is, I have certain segments to put together for the evening shows. I work on special segments, and produce and write scripts for our 10 p.m. newscast, that I also anchor. There's also times when I go out and report on breaking news or events.
Anything else you would like to add?
Enjoy what you're doing! But remember, telling the truth to your viewers is the most important thing. Be thorough, pay attention and remember to always check your spelling.