Democratic presidential debate provides unique opportunities

For about 60 UM-Flint students, Democratic presidential debate activities on campus gave them an opportunity to see the national political stage up close with hands-on experience.

The debate—between candidates Bernie Sanders and Hilary Clinton–took place on March 6, 2016, at the Whiting Auditorium in Flint, MI. But CNN started broadcasting live from the Frances Willson Thompson Library on Friday, March 4, and hundreds of media outlets covered the debate from the UM-Flint Recreation Center. The facility had been converted into a “Spin Room,” where about 500 journalists filed their stories and heard from campaign officials.

The size of the event and the number of media and campaign personnel offered a unique opportunity for UM-Flint students, as they were called upon to volunteer for various roles. Ashley West, a sophomore honors program communication/media studies student, was ecstatic about the opportunity. “I think it is something that will stand out on a resume. It will give me a better outlook of what people are doing in the media and the different responsibilities that they have,” West said.

She hopes her helpful attitude and hard work gave the media personnel a good impression about the knowledge that they can call on at UM-Flint in the future. Students from a variety of majors including political science, theatre and psychology joined her in volunteering.