Going Live

The first time I really felt that people were excited to get involved was when we took on the challenge of broadcasting live from The Big Independence Debate that was being held by the university.

The event, held in February, involved a panel of MPs and local Councillors debating the issues surrounding the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum, with students asking questions and airing opinions.  The event was a huge success, and with limited seating in the auditorium, I felt pleased that we were able to broadcast the event to students who were unable to attend.

We were able to borrow equipment from the university technicians, and we used an online source called 'UStream' for the broadcast.  This allowed us to add a 'button' to our Facebook page that users could click in order to watch the broadcast, so the whole programme was integrated with our social media presence.  This was very positive for engaging students, but it also meant that our Facebook page was where people chose to message us if they were experiencing problems watching the programme.

We only had two cameras for the broadcast: one focused on the panelists and one on the audience.  These didn't need to be maneuvered a lot during the broadcast, so I was able to answer people on social media during the programme.  There were only a couple of complaints - the majority of people said that the broadcast went very well.  Either way, I was pleased with how it went considering it was our first attempt at broadcasting live.

The event really ignited my passion for a career in television.  Despite the fact that it was a very small scale production, I really enjoyed the buzz around it.  The whole RGU Media Group pulled together to source equipment and ensure that the broadcast went smoothly.  The Radar Magazine group covered the event on social media, and RGU:Radio also did a live broadcast, so the three of us worked really well together.  I enjoyed the feeling of being a valued aspect of an event, as everybody involved showed their appreciation, and I was happy that I was able to pass that appreciation onto the people in the RGU:TV team that came to help out.

In March 2014, I was awarded a Half-Scarlet with Distinction Award at the Student Achievements Ball for my efforts in launching RGU:TV. It was completely unexpected and it felt fantastic to be rewarded for the time and effort that I had put in, although it was a hugely rewarding experience for me regardless!