Students enrolled in the Entertainment Public Relations course at Elon University Los Angeles recently seized a remarkable opportunity when they visited the Warner Bros. Burbank set of the prestigious Emmy Award-winning news magazine show “Extra,” a staple in entertainment journalism that has captivated audiences nationwide.
During their visit, the students engaged directly with seasoned producers Dave Geha and Mark Mottern, as well as the charismatic host, Billy Bush. They delved into insightful discussions about the intricacies of storytelling and the role of publicists in navigating the dynamic sphere of celebrity news, providing these aspiring professionals with invaluable knowledge that transcends textbook learning.
The site visit not only served as a real-world classroom experience but also enhanced the students’ comprehension of the collaboration required for executing a successful strategic PR campaign. The firsthand exposure to the inner workings of a major entertainment news program illuminated the complexities involved in public relations within the entertainment sector.
Mitch Messinger, an industry veteran and respected leader in celebrity and entertainment public relations, emphasized the significance of this experience. “Taking my students to the ‘Extra’ set was invaluable in connecting the dots between classroom academics and the professional landscape,” he remarked. The opportunity for students to converse with industry professionals and gain exposure to behind-the-scenes processes has been transformative for their educational journey.
For nearly 17 years, Elon University has been dedicated to providing specialized and career-focused academic programming, along with internship opportunities that prepare students to excel in their fields. Enrollment for the Elon University Los Angeles summer 2025 program is currently open, inviting prospective students to explore the immersive experiences available at the Los Angeles National Campus.
**Interview with Mitch Messinger, Professor of Entertainment Public Relations at Elon University Los Angeles**
**Interviewer:** Mitch, your students recently had the opportunity to visit the set of “Extra.” How do you think this experiential learning opportunity compares to traditional classroom education in preparing students for careers in entertainment public relations?
**Mitch Messinger:** It’s a game changer, really. By engaging with professionals like Dave Geha, Mark Mottern, and Billy Bush, students gain insights that simply can’t be taught in a textbook. They learn the realities of storytelling in the entertainment world and the critical role publicists play in shaping media narratives.
**Interviewer:** Many would argue that in-person experiences like this are essential, while others might contend that classroom education alone is sufficient. What are your thoughts on the balance between academic lessons and practical experiences in shaping successful PR professionals?
**Mitch Messinger:** I believe the two should go hand in hand. Theoretical knowledge is a foundation, but without practical exposure to the industry, students might miss out on understanding the nuances of real-world applications. This visit was a vital connecting thread between theory and practice.
**Interviewer:** Considering the rapidly evolving landscape of entertainment journalism, do you think institutions should put even more emphasis on experiential learning? Or is there risk in focusing too much on hands-on experiences at the expense of a structured curriculum?
**Mitch Messinger:** That’s an interesting point. While experiential learning adds immense value, a structured curriculum ensures that students have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of PR. We need to find a way to calibrate both components effectively.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like there’s a lot to consider. Readers, what do you think? Is hands-on experience in the entertainment industry necessary for students pursuing careers in PR, or can classroom education alone suffice? Let’s hear your opinions!
