EP202 Faye Glenn, Student at Cardiff University in Wales – TV Matters
Faye Glenn is a national award-winning journalist who, in the last seven years, has published more than 60 feature stories for broadcast. Oh, and I forgot to mention, Faye is a nineteen year old Freshman at Cardiff University in Wales. She’s a former student of Carlsbad High School teacher, Doug Green, who we had on the show in a recent episode.
In a recent episode of TV Matters, hosted by Misha Tenenbaum, Faye joined Misha from her flat nearly 6,000 miles away in Wales where she shared her journey, from her early experiences in middle school broadcasting to her current studies at Cardiff University. Let’s dive into her inspiring story.
Early Foray into Journalism: A Family Influence
Faye’s first exposure to journalism came from her older brother, who was involved in a middle school journalism program called VMS TV (Valley Middle School Television). Watching him bring home cameras and act in his projects, she became curious about and involved in the world of broadcasting.
A bigger influence was her grandfather, a passionate photographer, who had shared his knowledge and equipment with Faye. He gave her his old cameras, allowing her to experiment with videography and editing from a young age. This hands-on experience gave her an early advantage when she eventually joined VMS TV.
Finding Her Own Path in Journalism
Despite her early exposure, Faye was hesitant to follow in her brother’s footsteps. However, when a spot opened in the middle school program at VMS TV, she saw an opportunity to carve out her own identity as a journalist in the program rather than just being known as “her brother’s younger sister.”
Encouraged by her family, she took the leap—and it was the start of a path that so far has taken her across the ocean for college.
Learning Journalism Fundamentals in Middle School: Media Literacy and Storytelling
Under the guidance of her teacher, Doug Green, Faye’s middle school journalism experience involved more than just picking up a camera.
- Media Literacy: Early classes focused on analyzing professional journalism, watching segments from 60 Minutes and Steve Hartman, and discussing storytelling techniques.
- Practical Skills: Over time, students learned camera settings, editing, and writing skills, preparing them for more advanced storytelling.
- High Standards: Getting into VMS TV was competitive—students had to apply in sixth grade to get into the high school program. They also participated in national competitions.
One of Faye’s first memorable projects was a lighthearted feature on a friend who enjoyed scootering. Although it seemed like a silly topic, it taught her valuable lessons in storytelling—how to craft a compelling narrative even when there doesn’t seem to be a story.
The Competitive Side: Journalism at CHSTV
Transitioning to high school, Faye joined CHSTV (Carlsbad High School Television), a nationally recognized broadcast program. Getting in was no small feat—the application process included:
- A Feature Story – Showcasing a well-produced news segment.
- A “Chapman Application” – A story about herself without her physical presence in the video.
- A Sizzle Reel – A collection of clips demonstrating her on-air personality and editing skills.
Faye credits CHSTV not just for developing her technical skills but also for shaping her as a person. The program pushed her to meet deadlines, improve public speaking, and become more comfortable interviewing people—an essential skill in journalism.
Challenges and Triumphs: The STN Competition
One of the biggest moments in Faye’s early journalism career came with the Student Television Network (STN) competition.
Although her middle school team was set to compete in Washington, D.C., the event was canceled due to COVID-19. However, they participated in the remote Fall Challenge, where teams had just four days to produce a feature story.
Her team chose to highlight a cheerleader with Down syndrome, ensuring the story was framed as one of empowerment rather than sympathy. The pressure was intense, but their hard work paid off—they won first place, a moment Faye describes as one of the proudest in her young career.
Continuing the Journey in Cardiff
Now a first-year student at Cardiff University, Faye continues to develop her journalism career. She’s even assisting her former teacher, Doug Green, with a new initiative—the Cardiff Youth Service Young Creators Program.
Despite working alongside him as a colleague, Faye still calls him “Mr. Green,” a habit she finds hard to break after knowing him as a teacher since she was nine.
Her story is a testament to how early experiences, mentorship, and perseverance can shape a successful career in journalism. From analyzing professional news stories in middle school to winning national competitions and now studying journalism at a prestigious university—Faye Glenn is just getting started.
Resources Mentioned in the Podcast
- VMS TV (Valley Middle School Television) – The middle school journalism program where Faye started her journey.
- CHSTV (Carlsbad High School Television) – The high school program that shaped her journalism skills.
- Doug Green – Faye’s long-time journalism teacher, mentor, and now colleague.
- 60 Minutes & Steve Hartman – Professional journalists whose work was studied in class.
- Chapman Application – A unique application format inspired by Chapman University’s film school.
- Student Television Network (STN) Competition – A national competition for student journalists.
- Cardiff Youth Service Young Creators Program – A new journalism initiative in Cardiff, where Faye now contributes.
Faye’s journey highlights the importance of media literacy, storytelling, and the dedication it takes to succeed in journalism. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and finding your voice in a competitive field.
