Gulf Coast State College Digital Media students Chaslyn Stewart and Joseph Garcia recently had the incredible opportunity to join the Commodore Productions team on the sidelines at the Florida State University vs. Kent State football game on September 20th. The Seminoles dominated the field with a 66-10 victory, but for our students, the real win came from experiencing the energy and fast-paced world of live sports production up close.
This was the first time either student had filmed from the sidelines at FSU’s home stadium, and both are brand new to the Digital Media Program at Gulf Coast. Throughout the game, they captured stunning footage from field level, highlighting the power and precision of the sport while learning how video and photography work hand in hand to tell a dynamic story.
In true live-production fashion, the day brought some surprises, including one of the shortest halftimes we’ve ever seen in college football, due to a lightning delay and extended injury time. The students adapted quickly, using every moment to capture the atmosphere and excitement before editing their footage into short highlight reels to add to their growing portfolios. They were even able to tour the studio at Seminole Productions pre-game to see how our live production at Gulf Coast matches up to that of a major University.
To ensure the videos could be shared publicly, the final edits now include royalty-free music. The revisions do not take away from the students’ talent or creativity as video editors, their eye for storytelling and pacing still shines through.
As their instructor in DIG 2200: Digital Video Fundamentals, I couldn’t be prouder of how they handled this opportunity. Watching them take classroom concepts and apply them confidently in a real-world production setting was a highlight of the semester. Their professionalism, curiosity, and teamwork reflect exactly what we strive to cultivate in the Digital Media Program at Gulf Coast State College.
We’re proud to showcase their work below as an example of the skill and potential emerging from the next generation of Gulf Coast storytellers.
Video Produced by Chaslyn Stewart
Being on the field and so close to all the action was surreal. I wasn’t just watching the game – I was part of it. My job was to capture the moments that made it special, from the players running out onto the field to the fans cheering in the stands.
It wasn’t necessarily easy trying to catch all of the important moments, but it was most definitely the most fun I had while filming. There were times I had to think quickly and move fast to keep up with what was happening because I didn’t want to miss an important moment or play. It was definitely a challenge, but after seeing the video that I edited together, I am very proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone. I am very grateful for this opportunity and for getting to see my dreams come to life!
Video Produced by Joseph Garcia
My experience at the FSU vs. Kent State was an amazing experience. Seeing behind the scenes of the broadcast room was very cool. Being on the field and getting a chance to take some photos and work on a video is a different type of feeling. My dream was to always do something in sports, so doing this felt like my dream came true, and I just want to give thanks to Daniela Oestreich, Brandon Smith, Seth Johnson, and Gulf Coast State College for this amazing experience that I will never forget.
Daniela "Danie" Oestreich
Assistant Professor, Digital Media
As a graduate student at the University of Florida and current Assistant Professor in Digital Media, Danie often has her nose buried in a book. She looks for opportunities to practice her writing by covering student projects and promoting collegiate collaboration.
