Alumnus Battin talks television

by Alejandra Molina
Staff Writer

To give students a feel for the world of television, Emmy award winner and University of La Verne graduate Bill Batin spoke to students in Communications Professor Don Pollock's Introduction to Mass Media class last week.

Battin described his job as a producer and offered tips on breaking into the competitive industry.

"Don't think you can't get into it," Battin said.

Battin was an intern for Fox Sports Network during his senior year at ULV and landed a job there after he graduated in 1995. He started as a production assistant, then became an assistant writer and later earned the directing position.

Battin showed students a series of spots he worked on to promote the NFL playoffs, Stanley Cup playoffs and other sporting events.

From the initial idea to the actual promotion spot, Battin spoke on the process of making these commercials.

He talked about everything from scriptwriting to editing to producing.

"He gave a good description of what he does," said Rich Uranga, senior English and television broadcasting major.

"He works with his team and partners and works on creative sports promos," he said. "Our whole department is on it, it's a good group of people."

The typical budget they get to work with during the playoffs is $750,000, Battin told the group.

Battin also talked about working for national network television and producing spots for 22 regions. He said it was challenging to satisfy each region.

"We can't have Kobe and Shaq in San Antonio, they don't want to see LA guys in Detroit," he said. "The regions won't air it if it has someone they don't like to see."

The TV industry is very challenging and the biggest drawback for Battin is the pressure he gets when working on a spot.

"Each campaign has to be better than the last," he said.

Aside from speaking about the actual production phases, Battin gave the students pointers on how to successfully reach the industry.

"It's a huge industry," he said. "We take priority."

"It's who you know in the business," Uranga agreed. "Through contacts is how you get into the industry."

"He's great," said CiCi Chen, broadcasting major. "He gave us so many suggestions in the field.