Professor Jing Wang is on a mission to revitalize student media production at Old Westbury. She is the new TV-Multimedia Manager in the G-Wing of Campus Center. She started work in January and has already had a major impact on life at OWTV.
“My true passion is film-making,” says Jing Wang. “It’s like telling stories.” She has a deep interest in documentaries and a concern for immigration rights and women’s empowerment. In addition, she has filmed many student rallies and immigration protests. Her commitment to social justice makes her a good fit for the mission of the college.
Professor Wang originally earned a marketing degree in China. After arriving from China at twenty-four-years-old, she decided to enroll at Hunter College in New York City where she earned her Masters of Fine Arts in Integrated Media Arts.
She has made major improvements in the studios in the G-Wing. Right up front there are four Mac workstations where students can create any media project that fits their needs. Then, you walk into a student lounge with cozy couches, a coffee-maker and a mini-fridge where students can network and pitch ideas for new episodes.
Professor Wang spoke about hopes for the OWTV. “What the TV studio needs is a production team,” she said. During the summer of 2017, the Old Westbury TV studio received a long over due upgrade. There is some new equipment and software for students to use. This summer refresh was not nearly enough. The TV studio requires more involvement.
According to Professor Wang, students do not have to be Media and Communication majors to participate. All students are welcome. Students with different interests and majors will bring new ideas, “I would like for other majors to be involved; biology or even business majors,” she said.
Professor Wang is wearing many hats while working for the college. Besides film-making, she is skilled in graphic design, web design, and multimedia production. She has even made the open house posters with help from her students.
“It’s important to know a little bit of everything,” she continued as a frustrated student knocks on her door. The student moved away from the door realizing that there is a conversation going on. “Come in,” Professor Wang says. “One second,” and turns to the student. She grabs hold of the camera, Cannon T3i, and tentatively listens to the student’s questions. In less than 20 seconds, the student walks away with a functional camera and a finer understanding of the camera functions. Professor Wang worked the camera with ease and explained the functions to make sure the student could understand.
Professor Wang is a colorful spirit with an immense hope for the TV studio. “I hope people attend the open house,” she stated. “We have a student lounge now! I want students to enjoy themselves here.
