When NBC reporter Eric King visited North Garland High School in February, he did not come to cover a story. Instead, he came to impart tools of the trade. King taught students proper interview techniques in preparation for a class project.
“We are researching emerging architects, trying to understand them and their work,” explained teacher Lester Ortley. “For the project, students will pair up and conduct interviews with one acting as the architect they have researched. The goal is to inform the rest of the class through the questions that are asked.”
Asking the right questions is exactly what King taught during his visit. He encouraged students to think about what others would not ask and to find information that is relatable and interesting. King also advised students to keep their dialogue simple and demonstrated proper body language and posture that will make interviewees comfortable. Before leaving, he held a question and answer session.
Librarian Debbie Reed is responsible for King’s visit.
“I thought it would be a great opportunity for students to hear from someone whose business this is,” she said. “You never know what effect an interesting lesson might have. Eric gave them some great college and career advice, so we might have a few budding reporters.”