Georgia Southern Students Volunteer for Extreme Makeover Home Edition
Georgia Southern University students are working alongside the crew of ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition as they build a new house for a Savannah family.
Georgia Southern University Construction Management and Civil Engineering students have been asked to roll up their sleeves and put their expertise to use as volunteers construct the new home in less than a week.
Georgia Southern students are using their talents in the show’s popular art tent and are working on a custom project that will be revealed to the family upon completion of the house.
Georgia Southern students are also the first faces volunteers, VIPs and members of the media see upon arrival at the project site. Construction Management and Civil Engineering students are ensuring construction professionals volunteering are checked in upon arrival. Public Relations students at the University are working in the VIP/media tent, where they are assisting reporters and photographers preparing to cover stories about the construction and the television show. Students have the chance to work directly with members of the media who are working on deadline. It is also giving them a unique opportunity to be a part of a national television show in its production phase.
“Our students are getting real-world, practical experience that will benefit them upon graduation,” said Christian Flathman, director of marketing and communications at Georgia Southern University. “This truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it’s not only a great addition to their resume, but it’s in support of a great cause and show.”
Dr. Brian Moore, chair of the Department of Construction Management and Civil Engineering said that this is incredibly valuable experience. “Our students are working directly with the show’s designers and build team on a custom project and not only is it great experience, but it’s great to be able to be a part of such a well-known television show. We’re grateful for the opportunity.”
In addition to the practical work experience, this project is also teaching students the importance of giving their time and professional talents to those in need. The Extreme Makeover Home Edition house is being built for a Savannah family who has a child who was born with severe medical difficulties and whose home was in need of a number of extensive repairs.
Georgia Southern University alumni who work at J.T. Turner Construction in Savannah, GA first approached the institution about being involved a couple of months prior to filming. Since then the University’s involvement has continued to increase. “We are proud to be able to support our alumni, J.T. Turner Construction and ABC on such a great project,” said Flathman. “More than 100 students, faculty and staff signed on to volunteer during the week-long project and we’re excited to see the end result.”
The show is expected to air on ABC in January 2011.
Posted in My News