On March 10, 2011, the new Broadcast Journalism class at North Harford High School took a field trip to WMAR, the news station from where Channel 2 news airs.

     Students went on the trip with a passion for the subject, and they were very eager to learn more about this field of work. The class got to meet with some big-time names on the station, including anchor Charley Crowson and weather man Justin Berk. Then, the students actually got to go live on the air for a few seconds before Berk talked about the weather in Pylesville, Maryland.

     James Greene, a member of the class, was the one who organized the field trip and does not regret it. He said that the “field trip was a lot of fun,” and that “we’re currently trying to set up field trips to WBAL and WJZ, as well.”

     Not only did the students get to meet with the anchors, but they got to take a tour of the studio and learn a little bit more about what it takes to get into the business. Amanda Marley, a member of the class, said, “Mr. Crowson advised us not to get our hearts set on just one aspect of broadcasting, but to try every form and to do what you’re told. He said that if someone asks you to do something, you should do it, or you could be missing out on a great opportunity. It was great advice and I really admire someone with his type of passion and charisma.”

     The students as a whole seemed to have a great time on the trip, and Journalism teacher Jen Chandler had only positive things to say about it. “I was remarkably impressed with how gracious the ABC2 family was with our students. They answered questions, engaged in conversation, offered advice, and treated the class as rising professionals and not simply students.”