This week, our students had the unique opportunity to visit Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk (MDR), one of the largest employers in the media industry in Eastern Germany.
The visit was more than just a tour — it was a hands-on introduction to the diverse career opportunities within the media sector. From Production and Editorial to Administration, MDR spans a wide variety of roles across Radio, TV, and Online Media. All fields that are especially interesting for our BSc (Hons) Business Management and Media students.
A highlight of the tour came when one of our students was invited to step into the role of a news presenter. Standing in front of the camera and reading from a teleprompter, they got a feel for the pressures and excitement of live broadcasting. It was an unforgettable moment that sparked curiosity—and perhaps even ambition—for a future in media performance or journalism.
Our group was also given the rare chance to witness live filming of In aller Freundschaft, one of MDR’s most iconic and long-running TV dramas. Seeing the production team in action, with cameras rolling, scripts in hand, and actors on set, brought the complexity of television production to life in a way no textbook could match.
Another remarkable stop on our tour was the actual studio of the popular German talk show Riverboat. Standing in the very spot where celebrities like Robbie Williams have sat for interviews, our students were given an in-depth explanation of how the studio is set up: from the positioning of multiple cameras, to the intricate web of hundreds of stage lights directed with precision for a flawless viewing experience.
This behind-the-scenes insight not only sparked awe but also opened conversations about the business and logistical elements involved in high-profile media productions—topics especially relevant to students focused on management roles in creative industries.
Beyond the glamour and technical marvels, the visit to MDR was a meaningful learning experience. It revealed the broad spectrum of roles that keep a media powerhouse running—from content creation to operational planning—and highlighted just how integral these skills are in today’s fast-evolving media landscape.
We thank MDR for their hospitality and openness in sharing their world with our students. The visit strengthened the bridge between academic learning and professional application, and many left with new ideas about where their future careers might lead.
