Kaylee Ettinger '22

Kaylee Ettinger's interest in media began when she was 12 years old with a flip phone and a mind full of creative ideas. She later attended a high school that nurtured her curiosity about media and allowed her to expand her knowledge of film and editing. She also participated in early internships, which laid the groundwork for her undergraduate studies.

During Ettinger’s time at Rider, her love for media further developed through on-campus, hands-on experiences with Rider Athletics. There, she gained experience in streaming live graphics, operating broadcast equipment and assisting with producing digital content for Rider's NCAA Division I teams broadcasts. 

Ettinger also held impressive off-campus internship positions, working with Spectrum Networks to cover the Los Angeles Lakers and Dodgers games and create and edit packages for pre-, halftime, post and non-game day broadcasts. In addition, she gained experience working on popular television talent shows where she created video content for the show's social media platforms and assisted with audience coordination for live tapings. Through each opportunity, Ettinger applied her skills in real-world settings and gained insight into the production process of major entertainment projects.

Shortly before graduation, Ettinger received an incredible opportunity to join the Creative Services department at FOX Sports. Just over a year into her time with the team, she achieved a significant milestone by winning a Sports Emmy Award in the Outstanding Technical Team Studio category for her contributions to the network's 2022 FIFA World Cup programming. This achievement showcased her talent and dedication to her field, marking a pivotal moment in her emerging career.

Read the Q&A below to discover how Rider helped Ettinger begin her path to success:

What are you doing now?

I currently work at FOX Sports in the Creative Services department. At the graphics help desk, we support our remote and studio crews. It is a fast-paced, problem-solving environment where we work alongside production to ensure they have all the assets and technology needed. Some of my responsibilities include fulfilling graphics orders, delivering assets to our crews, quality control packages in the early stages, troubleshooting technical issues and demonstrating specific applications. No day is like the next which keeps my job exciting and allows me to learn new things.

What experiences did you have at Rider to help you prepare for where you are today?

My love of broadcasting began during my first year of college when I was offered employment with BroncVision. At that time, I didn't know what to expect and had no idea how BroncVision would change my life. In my first year, my supervisor, Chris Foster, offered me the role of graphics operator for one of our games, and I remained in this role for the duration of my time at BroncVision.

My experience at BroncVision led me to an opportunity to work as a production assistant for three consecutive years at the MAAC Basketball Championships in Albany, NY, and Atlantic City, NJ. There, I served as a graphic operator for many of the games. Traveling to be a part of these championships was crucial in helping me learn how to work with producers and other student staff members. We learned from each other and shared our ideas to make creative broadcasts. I will always be thankful for my time at BroncVision.

Another experience that prepared me was working as a multimedia intern for Rider Athletics. My responsibilities included social media and pre- and post-production of our broadcasts. My former supervisor helped me grow by exposing me to the world of graphics for sports media broadcasts, sharing knowledge and offering me opportunities to increase my skills.

How did involvement on campus enhance your success as a student and your future career?

As a protege in the Gail Bierenbaum Leadership Council​, I was matched with mentor Eileen Wainwright, president of the Wright Impact Group. For two years, Eileen always answered any questions I had. After every conversation, she left me feeling inspired, and eager to embark on my next adventure. Additionally, she assisted me in creating a LinkedIn profile and video portfolio and taught me how to network, set goals and so much more. Eileen had such a positive impact on developing my post-graduate life. 

What was your experience like participating in Rider’s Semester in Los Angeles program?

Participating in Rider’s Semester in L.A. program helped me to narrow down exactly what I wanted to do post-graduate. While there, I was a sports content intern at Spectrum News, located in California. Working at Spectrum was an absolute dream come true as it allowed me to be a part of a major television network. From my first day on the job, my work was broadcast on the air, and I am grateful that they shared my work as an intern. 

Being in L.A. for the semester allowed me to make contacts on the West Coast, attend premieres and TV tapings and see what goes on behind the scenes. In addition to getting hands-on experience in the industry, I had time to explore L.A. and create special memories before graduating college.

Advice to future Rider students:

From the minute you enter college, you should look for ways to gain work experience, whether paid or unpaid. Seek out mentors and leaders you admire who can offer advice on resume writing, networking strategies and interviewing tips. Be sure to take advantage of opportunities that may arise and always push yourself out of your comfort zone; you never know where that path may lead you.