New York City public school students are stepping inside a professional broadcast studio as part of a career-focused initiative at HITN, where hands-on experience is replacing the traditional classroom approach to media education.

HITN has launched its Student Spotlight: Pathways to Careers in Media, Communications & Technology program, designed to give students direct exposure to careers in television production. The initiative places students in a working broadcast environment, where they participate in production activities and create original content.

The program aligns with New York City Department of Education work-based learning priorities, supporting career awareness and exploration under its “Pathways to Careers” framework. Participating schools to date include High School for Innovation in Advertising & Media and Brooklyn Bridge Academy, with additional visits expected before the end of the school year. Support for the initiative has been provided by New York State Sen. Roxanne J. Persaud.

Structured around a three-part model: preparation, in-studio experience, and reflection; the program introduces students to real production workflows. Participants rotate through roles including camera operation, lighting, control room functions, set design, editing, and production coordination, while contributing to the development of original content.

The experience is intended to go beyond a standard field trip. Students interact with media professionals, observe workplace expectations, and gain practical insight into careers in media and technology. The initiative reflects HITN’s broader mission to educate and entertain through community-focused programming.