By Andi Anderson
The eighth annual Iowa 4-H Reporters program offered a unique opportunity for a group of 10 high school students to develop media and communication skills while documenting their experience at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.
The program, aimed at youth in grades 9-12, provides hands-on training in journalism, video production, and storytelling. Participants were selected from across Iowa, representing counties such as Carroll, Hamilton, Polk, and Story.
Before diving into the fair coverage, the 4-H Reporters attended a one-day training session on August 5 at Iowa PBS Studios. During this workshop, they received professional guidance from Iowa PBS experts on topics such as photography, B-roll shooting, interview techniques, and digital media use.
This training equipped the students with the tools and confidence needed to cover a wide range of events at the fair, from interviewing exhibitors to capturing action-filled moments on camera.
Throughout the 11-day fair, the youth reporters interviewed participants, wrote feature stories, and recorded videos showcasing the diversity of projects on display. They also took behind-the-scenes footage, giving fairgoers a glimpse of what happens during the fair.
The program also focused on improving the quality of social media content, with reporters photographing their peers and editing videos for future publications.
Led by professionals like Paul Yeager and Caryline Clark, the students gained real-world experience in all aspects of media production.
From scriptwriting to video editing, the 4-H Reporters had the chance to rotate through different roles, allowing them to explore all sides of media creation. Each reporter found their niche, whether it was being in front of the camera or working behind the scenes.
“The program taught me how to work in a team and improved my interviewing skills,” said Ben Waddle of Story County, one of this year’s participants. The program also provided exposure to modern technologies like drones, enhancing their understanding of digital media.
For those interested in applying for the 2025 4-H Reporters team, applications open on January 1, 2025, through the State 4-H Recognition Day portal. This program offers young people an exciting chance to explore careers in communications while contributing to the vibrant storytelling at the Iowa State Fair.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-lisegagne
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle