Journalism Major Grace Balzer Interns with Penguins Radio Network Student Profile
Meet Grace Balzer '22
- Job Title & Employer
- Intern, Penguins Radio Network
- Major/Program
- Journalism
- College Activities
- Sports photo editor, The Globe
- Hometown
- Springdale, Pa.
- High School
- Plum Senior High School
"Grace has evolved from a student who came to work each day eager to learn about the job, to a student showing up each day wanting to do the job. Our interns are expected to do more than sit and watch. We encourage them to be a part of our show and she has taken great strides during her short time with the radio network."
"The journalism program at Point Park is one of the top programs around. There are many opportunities for students to get involved on campus and learn the ropes of writing, photography, videography, reporting and more. Students gain hands-on experience outside of the classroom, which is much more beneficial than sitting in a classroom for four years. Plus, the faculty have worked in the field they teach in and provide expert advice in many areas."
What led you to pursue a degree in journalism from Point Park?
I knew I wanted to study journalism when I was in high school. I started researching Point Park's journalism program because I knew it had a great reputation of preparing students for a career in the field. I was also familiar with alumna Celina Pompeani's career path and dreamed of following in her footsteps. So many graduates landed jobs in the field and it sealed the deal for me.
Tell us about the work you do as an intern with Penguins Radio Network.
I do a variety of jobs as an intern. I have the opportunity to manage their Twitter account, Penguins Live, for every game (home and away). On there, I post pre-game, game and post-game updates for fans to follow along. At home games, I have been learning to produce the pre/post-game shows with Producer Craig Rechichar. I have also recently started recording post-game interviews in the media room to send to Executive Producer Wayne Anderson to be aired on the show.
How have Point Park’s classes and faculty helped you excel in this internship?
I have learned so much in my classes at Point Park. While I haven’t taken any radio courses, I have learned the basics of reading a rundown script that I follow during the pre-game show. My classes have also taught me about professionalism, which is so important in the workplace. The faculty are so knowledgeable and always willing to offer guidance.
Why would you recommend Point Park’s journalism program to a prospective student?
The journalism program at Point Park is one of the top programs around. There are many opportunities for students to get involved on campus and learn the ropes of writing, photography, videography, reporting and more. Students gain hands-on experience outside of the classroom, which is much more beneficial than sitting in a classroom for four years. Plus, the faculty have worked in the field they teach in and provide expert advice in many areas.
What are your career goals?
I would like to continue working in sports with the Penguins, Pirates or Steelers. I want to continue to learn all areas of journalism (writing, reporting and multimedia). It is my hope that my career choices will set an example for more young women who wish to pursue a career in sports journalism.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am very thankful for my time at Point Park. I’ve had my heart set on attending here since I was a freshman in high school and I haven’t looked back. I’ve had an amazing experience working with The Globe and learning different aspects of journalism. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me.