THON 2022- One Month Later

It's almost unfathomable to think that my first ever THON only happened just a month ago. I suppose that's the college experience for you, everything travels at the speed of light. When I first came to Penn State, THON was nowhere near on my radar. I just wanted to get a grip on my grades, living situation, social life, and of course experience. Little did I realize how intertwined each of these facets were amongst each other. Early on, I knew I had a decent foothold in experience, as I was hired by Bill Hallman to work under his live production division for CommAgency- Penn State's student-run media firm. The more I became involved with this job, the greater the opportunities presented themselves.

For the 2021-2022 THON season, the executive board for 46LIVE consisted of Grace Tomlinson, Michael Yarabinee, and Dyani Clark. Coincidentally, they were all in the same department as I was in CommAgency. One day I overheard them discuss 46LIVE, and I quickly expressed interest. I knew what 46LIVE was, they're responsible for bringing the heart of THON into the homes of thousands worldwide. Surprisingly it wasn't too late to join, despite it already being November. I started attending meetings under the Crew division, and began participating in THON-related livestreams.

For "100 Days 'Til THON," THON Winter Family Carnival, and the THON talent showcase I was employed with the task of monitoring audio. It was interesting, as I've never really worked an audio board before, and I quickly learned the nuances and subtleties of audio management. Of course, the real magic began when THON weekend came.

Prior to THON '22, I really wasn't feeling it. Sure, I had fun at the aforementioned events, but it wasn't anything to scream at. They kept saying "Your first THON is unforgettable," and I kept thinking "Okay, we'll see." After entering the Bryce Jordan Center, and obtaining my floor pass, I took my position. It was pretty fun, I enjoyed filming from the rafters. It was like I was a child playing with binoculars. Only difference was I wasn't spying on people, I was searching for fun reaction shots for the livestream.

The real magic didn't kick in until I took the floor around 9:00pm. I had a free hour, and offered my services to fill whichever position was needed. When they asked me to technical direct, I was stoked. It took a bit getting used to, but I caught on quickly. Technical directing for THON was almost euphoric; to bring the director's vision to life was so incredible. That was the moment I truly loved THON- here I was on the floor at one of the greatest charities in the world. I was not only participating in such a wonderful cause, but I was doing so by doing the things I loved. It was perfect.

At the end of it all, I was physically exhausted and needed a break. Still, I wouldn't trade it for the world. My first ever THON was amazing, technical directing and filming from multiple camera angles never ceased to capture my awe. I can't wait to come back to 46LIVE next semester, it's truly become one of my favorite elements of the Penn State experience.