Connecting with Professionals
by Ben Inniger, recipient of the NBS “Doughnut” Scholarship
Greetings from Ben Inniger at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I am a second-year MFA candidate studying sound design. I was fortunate enough to receive the “dougnnut scholarship” this year (and there were still doughnuts at the NBS meeting! We are truly spoiled!). I wanted to share my experiences in Cincinnati and express the worth of the scholarship I received from NBS.
Last year was my rookie year in USITT, and I remember what a whirlwind the conference in Houston was. I felt the benefit of this being my second year and I tried to become more directly involved and more assertive about meeting the members of the sound commission, the informative spokespeople on the expo floor, and other enthusiastic and helpful members of the organization. I spent the majority of the week 
attending workshops. A few of my favorites include the Sound Playback System Round Table, Continuing Adventures with D&B, and the Olympics Lighting Designer, Sha Xiaolan. In retrospect, one of the greatest perks I enjoyed this year was the variety of information I was able to take in. Topics ranged from the practical such as portfolio advice and software tips and tricks, to a attaining a new appreciation for the enormous task of designing lights of the Beijing Olympic Games.
The greatest highlight of my week was presenting my design of Hamlet to the sound commission on Saturday. I did not consider presenting a design before the conference, but I learned at the sound commission meeting that there were still openings. I had most of my design with me so I decided to go for it. The presentation went extremely well and I received invaluable feedback from the assembly. Afterwards, I was paired up with a Vinnie Olivieri who is a professional sound designer and professor at UC Irvine. He spent over an hour with me giving additional feedback, answering questions, and encouraging me to take the next steps of my career. I believe that this experience exemplifies the essential opportunity that USITT offers. It gives students and young professionals the chance to learn directly from these working professionals and heroes of the industry.
Thank you to NBS for the scholarship, which enabled so many memorable opportunities. I know that I and my chapter at MSU had a tremendously enjoyable and beneficial week. I hope to see you next year in Kansas City!
In appreciation,
Ben Inniger
Minnesota State University, Mankato