This article was written by Drue Hamlet
The inaugural College of Communication and Information (CCI) Vol Network Internship has created another opportunity for students to excel beyond the classroom. Students have the unique chance to work alongside Voice of the Vols Mike Keith and Associate Director of VFL Films Ashley Farrell.
“As the Vol Network looked to launch new programming for Tennessee fans this fall, Mike Keith and I knew it would be an amazing opportunity to give students hands-on experience in real-life sports broadcast production,” said Farrell, who also serves as an adjunct assistant professor of practice in the School of Journalism and Media. “Both of us benefited tremendously from similar experiences while we were in school.”
The internship consists of 15 students across the college who work behind the scenes on some of the most exciting programming outlets UT Athletics has to offer, including The Mike Keith Show, Big Orange Rewind and Volunteer Gameday.
For senior Sophie Starkey, the experience has already been transformative.
“This internship has significantly broadened my skills as a sports journalist,” she said. “After a few months, Mike Keith and Ashley Farrell recognized my interest in being on-air and offered me the opportunity to appear on The Mike Keith Show. I contributed by shooting a man-on-the-street segment, editing footage, and making an on-camera appearance.”
Interns have contributed to various facets of production, from studio operators to field producers. The experience invites students to apply their coursework knowledge to the ever-changing world of sports media.
“Our CCI students are learning hands-on aspects of what makes both audio and video shows go on. They are adding their own ideas, which helps Ashley and me immensely,” said Keith. “The students are amazed when presented with the opportunities and yet prove to be up to the challenge. It is clear to me that what they learn in CCI classrooms and the advice they get from CCI faculty are preparing them to meet the moment with the Vol Network.”
As the fall semester progresses, students are proving they are building more than just practical sports production skills, but also confidence in their impact on the sports broadcasting industry.
“Being part of the inaugural CCI Vol Network Internship has been one of the most valuable experiences in my journey as an aspiring sports journalist and broadcaster,” said junior Jeremiah Shields. “This internship hasn’t just strengthened my production skills—it has reinforced my passion for storytelling in sports and given me clarity about the career path I want to pursue. The combination of mentorship, real-world practice, and trust placed in me as an intern has shown me what it takes to thrive in this field, and I know these lessons will stay with me throughout my career.”
