Manning Native with a bright future

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by JOHNNY WEEKS jweeks.editor.mt@gmail.com For some students, the summer is used to relax and do as little as possible. But for others, it's an opportunity to get ahead in their studies by gaining experience in their field of education. Jesse Surette is a prime example of this mindset. Surette is a 2017 graduate of Manning High School. While in high school, he worked as an intern under the guidance of former Manning Times editor Robert Baker. Surette learned about the many different steps that are required to report a story. He also helped in writing reports for The Huddle section of the newspaper to cover the football games in Clarendon County. Surette said that the experience piqued his interest towards the communications field. “During my internship at The Manning Times, I really enjoyed the experience of being behind the camera,” said Surette. “I went to a lot of events, took pictures, and conducted interviews. I have met some amazing people.” Surette was one of the first students at MHS who was able to take college level classes and earn a degree. He earned an Associate of Arts degree from Central Carolina Technical College before graduating high school. Surette said that there are many aspects of communication that he is currently studying. Topics such as analytics and ethics are the fundamental classes that are required in the early stages of his degree. Surette will finish his studies towards obtaining his Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication in March 2020. He also has a minor in education. This would allow him to become a teacher or a coach if he chooses. During college, Surette has already worked for projects shown on ESPN 1 and SEC network thanks to an internship with Gamecock Live Productions. They covered University of South Carolina sporting events that included football, baseball and soccer. Surette was also assistant producer covering volleyball. “My biggest draw towards communications is centered around sports” said Surette. “I enjoy broadcasting more so than making a film. To create a show or movie is more of an art.” One program in particular caught Surette's eye at USC. If selected, students are allowed to write the college's alumni magazine each semester. Surette and 16 others were chosen out of the long list of students who applied. He was able to submit a two page article for the magazine that was published. Surette is currently an intern for the summer under the guidance of Darrell James, CEO of CCNN studios in Manning. They are working on a plan to create an internship for local high school students. The purpose is to expose them to the various elements of communication. It will be geared towards showing a wider variety of options for students after graduating from high school.