Sports journalist Andy Bitter visited Ferrum College last Wednesday to share insights and advice with students interested in journalism and sports media. The talk, held at the Panther’s Den at 1 p.m., was also streamed online to allow broader student access.
Bitter, a senior staff writer and lead football beat reporter for Tech Sideline, has covered Virginia Tech athletics since 2011 and has worked in sports journalism since graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2001.
According to Communication Professor Amy Loeffler, Bitter was invited because of his unique combination of local and national experience.
“As program coordinator for the media and communication department, I am always on the lookout for professionals who might be able to adjunct at Ferrum or guest lecture and share their experiences and expertise,” Loeffler said. “As a local sportswriter who also has experience at a national media outlet, Andy Bitter was an obvious choice to invite to campus.”
During the session, Bitter spoke about his career experiences and the skills needed to succeed in a competitive and evolving industry, emphasizing consistency, relationship-building, and adaptability in digital media.
Loeffler said one of her main goals for the event was to give students a realistic look at the profession.
“My goals for students who attended the event either online or in person were to provide some insight as to what it’s like to be a working sports journalist and how to ride out the vagaries of the journalism industry, which can be quite tumultuous,” she said. “I definitely think that was achieved with Andy’s lecture.”
Students described the event as both informative and inspiring.
“I loved this opportunity to listen and ask questions because I’m interested in being a part of sports in the future,” said Brandon Jones, a senior.
“It was an amazing opportunity the college gave its students, and I was happy to stop by and listen,” said Jackson Bagley, a first-year student.
Bitter encouraged students to pursue internships, create their own content, and take initiative in building a professional portfolio.
“There are a lot of opportunities; you have to find one that fits you,” he said.
One key takeaway highlighted by Loeffler was the wide scope of sports journalism. She pointed to Bitter’s discussion of covering complex and serious stories, including incidents that extend beyond the field, which require navigating legal systems and relationships with law enforcement in addition to traditional reporting.
The department plans to continue hosting similar events in the future. Loeffler confirmed that guest speakers remain an important part of the student experience, with upcoming visits such as former New York Times journalist Kenneth R. Rosen, who will speak about his book Polar War.
“I think these kinds of interactions are integral to the student experience and provide invaluable insight to students who have questions about the industries they are working towards becoming a part of in the future,” Loeffler said.
The visit gave attendees a clearer understanding of the demands and rewards of a career in sports journalism, leaving many motivated to explore the field further.
Watch the full event here:
