Baruch College
Tales from the classroom
Tucked onto the perimeter of NoMad on Lexington and 24th Street is one of the city’s more unique institutions of higher learning. With degree programs spanning art, science, business, education, health, and engineering, Baruch College is ranked among the region’s and nation’s top colleges by U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and Forbes, among others.
Like those attending other college and university campuses in the heart of New York City, students have the opportunity to make the most ofwhat the city has to offer — from museums to cultural experiences to business and internship opportunities, the advantages of living in the area, attending class, and interacting with some of the leading professionals and educators in their chosen fields is unparalleled.
Along those lines, the NOMAD Magzine team had the opportunity to sit in on Baruch College’s Fiction Podcasting class. Taught by professor Gisele Regatao, a multimedia journalist who has reported, produced and edited stories for podcasts, radio, online and print publications in New York, São Paulo, Los Angeles, Mumbai, and Mexico City, the class was a lesson in scriptwriting, performance, sound effects, and more. Under the umbrella of the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences Department of Journalism and Writing, JRN3660H is an honors class that brings into focus aspects of broadcasting and entertainment that are on point for contemporary society.
“I’m a journalism major and I thought this class could be really interesting,” said student Katelyn Alvarez. “Everything else I’m taking is about the news, and this is giving me an outlet to be more creative.”
Other students shared similar insights. “I’m not sure if I want to go into the field but it’s made me realize that fiction storytelling is a passion of mine,” said Nathaniel Lugo.
The 15 students in Regatao’s class spent the semester listening to a variety of podcasts and learning the techniques for crafting their own. They explored key elements of storytelling while working in groups to create and perform their work.
During our brief visit, we were able to watch three groups perform their edited scripts. They utilized character voices and strategic dialogue to guide the listener through each of their stories. Just one of the extensive course offerings at the college, Fiction Podcasting is a stellar example of how the institution is catering to the evolving needs of its student body.
Baruch College has established itself as not only a staple of the CUNY school system but also as a diverse, vibrant, and expansive college offering higher education to New Yorkers and others. The college’s roughly 19,000 students, who speak more than 110 languages and trace their heritage to more than 150 countries, create a rich social and academic environment that enhances learning and preparation for a global marketplace.
For more information on the college, including upcoming events, visit baruch.cuny.edu.