A Start in Sports Media
by Alyssa Koplon
The following interview is with Mia Fishman, a junior Journalism major with a minor in Sports Management and a certificate in Sports Media. Mia is from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she found her love for sports media.
Mia Fishman at 2025 National Championship
Q: How did you get into sports media?
A: “I have been writing about sports since I was 14. I have always loved sports and the stories behind them, so I kind of just threw myself into sports media. My dad had a college friend whose son reported for Sports Illustrated Kids, and the application was opening at the time, so I applied. I happened to get it and that’s where it all started.”
Q: What resources or programs does UGA have related to sports media?
A: “UGA has a lot! The sports media certificate program that I am currently in is great. They have many professors who are willing to help you network and do whatever they can to help you succeed. The professors are well connected in almost every corner of the industry, including production, editing, broadcasting and writing. I think the perspectives offered are what make this program so special and unique.”
Q: How important is networking in the sports media industry?
A: “Networking is important in every industry, but in the sports media industry, it’s especially important because it’s how you work your way up the ranks. Knowing people who are willing to help will help get you to the next level.”
Q: How do you manage to keep content fresh and engaging?
A: “The sports media industry is always changing and that’s something we focus on in my classes. Reporting is about being timely and making sure that whatever you are producing, whether that is a written piece, video piece or photography, is relevant.”
Q: What has your most memorable experience been?
A: “Covering the national championship most definitely. I was able to cover the national championship through USA Today thanks to one of my professors, Vicki Michaelis. She used to work for USA Today and opened up the opportunity to apply. For the event, we traveled to Atlanta, attended media days, talked to coaches and players, and got to understand what it is like to be at that level. We had the opportunity to walk on the field. During the game, I followed Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day around and documented what he was doing, when he was doing it and who he was with after the game. I ended up getting a piece about him published and a piece about Notre Dame Coach Marcus Freeman published as well. It was a great opportunity to learn at that high of a level and be surrounded by the people who do it best.”
Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to get involved in the sports media industry?
A: “I think my biggest piece of advice is to just stick with it. You’re going to fail a lot and not everything is going to come easily. It takes a lot of learning, experience and time. It is a very time-consuming career, but it’s so rewarding being able to create content that not only you love but people around you love. It’s so rejuvenating to look at people enjoying the content that you produce and it is such an amazing feeling. Especially as a female in this industry, it takes a lot of time, effort and strength. You just have to keep a strong head on your shoulders and be confident in everything you do.”
