Hofstra in NYC: Last Full Day – Rajlakshmi Indulkar
Today, our exciting journey began with a visit to the renowned HBO, now known as Max, office building. Located on the 35th floor, we had the privilege of meeting the Account Supervisor, manager, and coordinator. Their warm welcome set the tone for an incredible day. As part of our visit, we had an exclusive screening of an episode of “Swiping America” with the HBO team. It was an absolute blast, filled with laughter and entertainment.
After our delightful time at HBO, we headed to Chelsea Market to satisfy our appetites. I personally indulged in some delicious Indian cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse food options made it a memorable lunch experience.
Next on our agenda was a visit to the Spectrum News NY1 workspace. There, we had the pleasure of meeting the News Director, who provided us with fascinating insights into the production of news programs. We learned about the intricacies of shooting news segments and got a glimpse of the control room, where the magic happens.
Our adventure didn’t end there; we were fortunate enough to explore the sprawling Google office located near the pier. The grandeur of the building matched the innovation and creativity found within its walls. It was there that we delved into the future of technology, particularly artificial intelligence. Google showcased their beta version of an AI called Bard. We were captivated as we learned about Bard’s specifications and its functionality, drawing parallels to our very own Chat GPT.
As the day drew to a close, we returned to the comfort of the FIT dorms. To wrap up our exciting day, we were invited to a Networking Pizza Party with fellow Hofstra Alumni. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and foster valuable connections.
Overall, our day was filled with enriching experiences, from immersing ourselves in the world of entertainment at HBO Max to exploring the realms of news production at Spectrum News NY1. The highlight, undoubtedly, was our deep dive into the future of technology at Google, where we witnessed the impressive capabilities of AI through Bard. The day concluded on a high note with a delightful networking event, leaving us with lasting memories and newfound connections.
Hofstra in NYC: Day 5 – Rajlakshmi Indulkar
Today, our day began with an early morning departure as we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the iconic Empire State Building. Stepping into the building’s museum, we were transported back in time to 1931 when this magnificent structure was first erected. Witnessing the fascinating exhibits, we gained a deeper appreciation for the incredible craftsmanship and dedication that went into its construction.
Our next stop was the renowned observatory, located high above the bustling city streets. As we reached the top, our breath was taken away by the awe-inspiring panorama that unfolded before us. Although the view was slightly veiled by a haze caused by the Canadian wildfires, it still surpassed our expectations, even surpassing the clarity of the previous day.
Continuing our exploration, we made our way to the Paramount office, where we were granted the opportunity to step foot onto the MTV set nestled amidst the vibrant heart of Times Square. The energy and vibrancy of the surroundings were infectious, making us feel like we were part of a larger-than-life production.
In a reflective moment, we visited the somber reflecting pools, a poignant memorial honoring the tragic events of September 11th. As we stood there, paying our respects to the lives lost, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of unity and resilience emanating from the memorial.
Our journey then led us to Hunter PR in the Financial District, where we were treated to an enlightening session focused on Consumer Product Goods (CPG) PR. The office itself, situated on the 68th floor, offered us a perfect vantage point to marvel at the breathtaking cityscape below. It was an ideal setting to absorb valuable insights and learn from industry experts.
Throughout the day, we were captivated by the rich history, stunning views, and enlightening experiences that New York City had to offer. From the grandeur of the Empire State Building to the solemnity of the 9/11 Memorial, each moment etched a lasting impression, leaving us with cherished memories of a remarkable day.
Hofstra in NYC: Day 4 – Rajlakshmi Indulkar
Today began with an exciting visit to the iHeartRadio office, where we were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff. Their encouragement and hospitality set a positive tone for the day. As we explored the office, we were delighted to witness the bustling atmosphere of various radio shows being aired simultaneously. It was fascinating to see the behind-the-scenes operations of a media powerhouse like iHeartRadio.
During our time at iHeartRadio, we had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the worlds of public relations and journalism. We learned how these two fields are closely intertwined, supporting each other in the dissemination of news and entertainment. Understanding the collaborative nature of PR and journalism shed light on the intricate processes that contribute to effective media communication.
Next, our journey led us to the NBC Universal office, which turned out to be an absolute highlight of the day. The visit was a dream come true for any media enthusiast, as we were granted access to witness the magic of live broadcasting. The live newsroom and control rooms captivated our attention, offering a glimpse into the organized chaos that brings breaking news to millions of viewers around the world.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. We were fortunate enough to attend the tapings of highly acclaimed shows, including The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Night Show with Seth Meyers, and Saturday Night Live. Being in the same space as these renowned talk shows and witnessing the energy and talent firsthand was an unforgettable experience. It gave us a deeper appreciation for the creativity and hard work that goes into producing entertaining and engaging content.
Unfortunately, our plans to top off the day with a performance of Hamilton were thwarted by unforeseen circumstances. Due to the wildfires in Canada, the show was regrettably canceled. While disappointed, we understood and respected the decision, recognizing the importance of prioritizing safety and well-being.
Despite the disappointment, the day was filled with remarkable experiences, from exploring the vibrant iHeartRadio office to immersing ourselves in the fast-paced world of NBC Universal. The knowledge gained, the connections made, and the memories created will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our understanding of the media industry and its various facets.
Day 1: Hofstra in NYC
By: Riana Kamath
Today was the first day of our Hofstra in NYC trip. After we arrived and unpacked at the FIT dorms, we had the opportunity to see the vessel in the Hudson Yards and go for a High Line walk that is located on the waterfront of the Hudson River. It was my first time seeing the vessel and hearing the history behind the architecture, with its reflecting copper-clad exterior and honeycomb-like resemblance. The High Line walk was my favorite part of the day because we saw a lot of the city, the river, surrounding buildings, and the residential apartments. I was amazed to see the amount of plants and flowers on the High Line, it was not something I’ve seen a lot in the city, it was nice to see this along with the unique infrastructure. I learned that the Hudson Yards was originally an above-ground railroad between the Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen. One of my favorite spots has been the Chelsea market which we were able to walk through today and see all the shops and restaurants. We ended the night by going to the Chelsea Bell restaurant and getting to know each other more. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the week, learning more about the city, and visiting our upcoming PR companies.
Real PRogress
“Public relations has always played its part in the marketing mix, even if it was added to plans late and rarely recognized like other disciplines. But the emergence of skippable, blockable, opt-out-able advertising, not to mention ever-more integrated campaigns, means PR can suddenly demand more than a supporting role—and maybe even take center stage.”
Lindsey Stein
Tired of defending public relations? The above quote in a January Advertising Age article by Lindsay Stein is more proof that other professionals are finally recognizing PR’s place in the world of communication. That’s real progress. For too long and too often our profession has been disparaged by marketers, journalists and the public who see PR as spin–the purposeful altering of truth to achieve a desired outcome.
Stein’s article quoted Harris Diamond, CEO of McCann Worldwide, one of the world’s largest PR firms. “Clients increasingly understand that marketing is multichannel, and that the digital and experiential spaces lend themselves to magnification by PR,” he said. “More and more CMOs (chief marketing officers) are recognizing the power and importance of PR, and I’m seeing more practitioners in the field being involved in integrated campaigns, and that’s dramatically accelerated PR’s pace.”
Another example was noted by Stein: “‘At Chobani, where PR has always been a weapon to battle bigger-spending rivals, the discipline is becoming increasingly vital,’ according to Peter McGuinness, CMO for the Greek yogurt brand. The growing importance of PR is…a ‘macro-category trend’ because of highly curious consumers and the increasing need to reach them with brand information. Edelman, the largest independent PR agency, is ‘getting not just a seat at the table, we’re getting half the table,’ said Jackie Cooper, global chair-creative strategy at the firm.”
It’s not only because advertising will be “skippable and blockable” that makes PR more vital. A 2014 study from Nielsen found that PR is almost 90% more effective than advertising. “With advertising, you tell people how great you are,” wrote Robert Wynne in Forbes. “With publicity, others sing your praises. Which do you think is more effective?”
Public relations students and professionals know the answer to that question. Your thoughts?
PeRmanently damaged?
Consider the possibility that Bill Cosby’s public image could ever recover from the charges of rape leveled against him, a suggestion made by one of my students. I pondered that the only way this might happen is if he was first found innocent in a court of law, and added that Cosby has probably been permanently damaged because of the huge number of credible accusers. It seems he’ll never be able to regain his positive public image under any circumstances.
This could now be the case with Donald Trump. The revelation of a 2005 conversation in which he bragged about sexual aggression and assault may doom any reasonable chance of his election to the presidency. His team took nearly 13 hours to produce an online videotaped statement in which Trump acknowledged wrong-doing, apologized, and ended with an attack on Bill and Hillary Clinton. It remains to be seen how damaging this latest bombshell will be, and whether more damaging video and quotes will surface before Election Day.
The images of other entertainers and politicians have recovered following their illicit or illegal acts. After Michael Vick served jail time for animal abuse, he focused on rebuilding his life and public image through charity work and a renewed, successful football career. A post-Watergate Richard Nixon, although never able to fully shed his crooked public persona, earned a measure of redemption after apologizing on television for the scandal and becoming a best-selling author of thoughtful books on public policy. Bill Clinton, after being impeached in the Senate for lying about a White House affair, completed his presidency with a Gallup poll approval rating of 65%, higher than that of every other departing president measured since 1953.
This latest controversy encircling Donald Trump may not only cost him the election; it’s likely to scar the Trump brand and hurt his businesses. If he loses next month, it will be fascinating to observe if the damage is permanent or fades after a few months or years. If he wins, he’ll still need to spend a lot of his “stamina” repairing his public image–from within the Oval Office. Your thoughts?
Punctuation and gRammar
Now that the last vestiges of the first 2016 presidential debate have left Hofstra, it’s time to turn from politics to one of my favorite topics–punctuation and grammar.
Reading students’ anonymous evaluations this week on my teaching revealed observations about how “strict” I am regarding their writing. They generally seemed grateful for my approach; one student even wrote, “I needed it.”
I often tell the story about how I lost a valuable client when a colleague misspelled the CEO’s name in a draft of a press release. “One of the easiest ways to discount your business’ credibility is to fall victim to spelling errors and poor grammar,” wrote marketing professional Carly Stec. “If your content is plagued by poor grammar, it’s likely that people will think twice about the quality of your products or services.”
The same goes for one’s professional reputation. John Boitnott of Entrepreneur recently wrote, “While it may not seem like a major concern, making even the smallest of mistakes when composing written messages can have a major impact on our careers, since poor writing skills can give colleagues and customers the impression that we’re not really educated or skilled enough to do our jobs properly.”
iFixit CEO Kyle Weins also takes grammar seriously. In his article, “I Won’t Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar. Here’s Why,” he said, “My zero tolerance approach to grammar errors might seem a little unfair. After all, grammar has nothing to do with job performance, or creativity, or intelligence, right?” He added, “I’ve found that people who make fewer mistakes on a grammar test also make fewer mistakes when they are doing something completely unrelated to writing…I hire people who care about those details. Applicants who don’t think writing is important are likely to think lots of other things also aren’t important.” Weins gives a grammar test to every job applicant.
Yes, I can be aggressive when it comes to punctuation and grammar, but I hope my public relations students understand when I correct their writing, it’s just tough love. After all, I’m only concerned about their future success. Your thoughts?
(photo above from Brightside)
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Debating PRomotional value
Hofstra University is abuzz with debate fever and awash in media this weekend. While Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have their fans and committed voters, conventional thinking says the vote may hinge on their performances in THIS debate. And with the first of three presidential debates happening on the campus Monday, September 26, the grounds are swarming with reporters, producers, technicians, cameras, equipment, photographers, Secret Service and other law enforcement officers, plus thousands of miles of cable.
The debate stage under construction this weekend.
Dozens of temporary stages are being built with plywood and two-by-fours, ready to be dressed for their close-ups. All of this is in preparation for a 90-minute showdown between the two most disliked candidates in modern history, according to polls. Hundreds of Hofstra employees and students are being deployed to assist in the effort, working alongside the aforementioned media and support to make history happen on Monday. Estimated costs totaling four to five million dollars makes one wonder and debate: “Is it all worth it?”
One could argue that the time, expense and overall drain on campus resources suggest the answer is “no.” A minor but annoying controversy created by third party candidate Gary Johnson’s supporters on Facebook–calling for Hofstra not to host the debate because Johnson was not included, was unwelcome. The temporary inconvenience of shrinking numbers of parking spaces, loss of some athletic facilities, cancellation of Monday classes, and closed roads are also negatives.
I say of course it’s worth it. Most if not all of the expenses are being covered by huge donations from two Hofstra alums. If you were to estimate the value of the publicity Hofstra will receive based on what advertising would cost for an equivalent number of mentions, views, and on-camera presence both nationally and internationally, it would reach hundreds of millions of dollars. The prestige this event brings to Hofstra is immeasurable, and the opportunities this brings to our students–to work alongside New York media pros, to be involved with political discourse and discussion, and to be a part of history–is an incomparable life experience.
So, debate the debate’s value to Hofstra. Your thoughts?
ResPect foR opponents
There are predictions that the first 2016 presidential debate, airing on September 26 live from Hofstra University, will be one of the most-watched TV programs in television history. It’s almost certainly not because Americans want the details of Hillary Clinton’s or Donald Trump’s fiscal, military or social policies. The true reason for the steroidal level of interest is our fascination with and desire to see potential fireworks between the two candidates. Will Trump resort to the nastiness he’s directed toward his opponents in past debates? Will Hillary try to take the high road or rather test Trump’s thin skin by insulting him? Will either say something that’ll significantly damage their campaign? And who will “win” the first debate?
Bill Maher lamented the lack of civility and respect
In public relations we know that respect for our colleagues and our audiences are essential to successful communication. On his HBO show Real Time, comedian/political observer Bill Maher lamented the lack of respect among those in the political world. “Trump and Hillary are the first two candidates in memory NOT to call and congratulate each other when they won their respective races,” Maher noted. He pointed out that until recently, members of Congress would address each other as “my friend.” They showed mutual respect for their colleagues and opponents despite their political differences.
“If you wanna know why our country is so tense and our government doesn’t work, it’s because society functions on some basic rules of conduct and they’re all going away,” Maher said. “The infectious disease that’s threatening our election isn’t pneumonia–it’s a total lack of class.”
Skillful public relations professionals understand that good communication is knowing what to say and how to say it. Courtesy and tradition have societal and practical impact. Here’s a personal example: When a student only refers to me as”Morosoff” when addressing me, it sounds disrespectful. The convention of speaking a title before a name (Professor, Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.) is a courtesy that’s, sadly, disappearing.
“Civility is nearly dead in this country and we need to return to some basic level of bipartisan decency and respect for our opponents,” Maher lectured. Your thoughts?
ApPeaRance vs. content
Kennedy vs. Nixon in a 1960 debate
Conventional thinking says that when then-Vice President Richard Nixon debated then-Senator John F. Kennedy, those who watched the debate on television thought Kennedy had “won” while those who listened to it on radio thought Nixon had been the victor. It’s often noted that while Kennedy looked young, vigorous, well-dressed and handsome, Nixon’s crumpled suit, recent weight loss, and perspiring face made for such a visual contrast that Kennedy appeared more presidential in people’s minds. However, if you read the transcript of the Kennedy-Nixon debates, you might be hard-pressed to discover which of the candidates was more qualified and well-prepared.
Appearance matters in public relations and visual media, and no less during presidential debates. In 1976 and 1980, 5’9 Jimmy Carter stood on a step to make him appear the same height as President Gerald Ford and Governor Ronald Reagan, who were both over six feet tall. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush was roundly criticized when the camera caught him checking his watch during a town hall-style debate against Bill Clinton. Al Gore’s constant sighing at George W. Bush’s responses hurt his performance.
While they’ll appear together when Hofstra hosts the first debate September 26th, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump were interviewed separately at a “Commander in Chief Forum” on NBC last week. Trump came under fire after the program for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin, and also his seemingly insensitive answer to the issue of sexual assaults in the military. Conversely, much of the criticism directed at Clinton regarded her appearance; she didn’t smile and may have came across as harsh or even angry. As a result, many pundits believed Trump “won” the forum.
In presidential campaigns and just about everything else, people too often base their opinions on style rather than substance. So here’s a challenge: Read the transcript of the “Commander in Chief Forum” and try not to visualize the candidates’ appearance or style. Review their words for content and substance:
http://time.com/4483355/commander-chief-forum-clinton-trump-intrepid/
Then, share your opinion. Who”won” the forum based on their words? Why is appearance so important and influential? Does content alone really ever matter? Your thoughts?
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