Graduation Year: 2017
Major: Broadcasting
Current Position: Host of Ozarks Big Bite on KYTV
Location: Springfield, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
My career started while I was still a student at Evangel. After completing an internship at KY3 News, I approached their management about launching a restaurant reviewal show. They loved the idea, and in November 2016 during my senior year, we launched Ozarks Big Bite which airs on Saturday mornings on Ozarks Today Weekend Edition. In fact, many times I found myself running my business and doing conference calls from my dorm room. My colleagues called me “The Dorm Room CEO.” Today, I am continuing my work on Ozarks Big Bite, and also beginning to wade into the world of national syndication. Stay tuned!
Michael Gibson holds up his Emmy from the Mid-America Emmy Awards held in September, 2017.
What is your favorite memory from EU?
I have so many fond memories from my time at Evangel University. But my favorite was being involved with Newswatch Today, the campus’s student news program. From day one, after seeing the studio in the communications department during my campus visit, I wanted to be involved with EUTV. After auditioning my first semester at Evangel, I got the chance to be an anchor. A position I would hold for each of my semesters at Evangel. I learned so much about television, and how to carry yourself on camera. I also shared a lot of laughs with my co-anchors, who become close friends.
How did EU help you identify or develop your calling?
I like to say that instead of me finding Evangel University, Evangel found me. After graduating high school, I decided to attend school in Santa Barbara, CA. It was a long way from home. But, being in the epicenter of Hollywood was a huge thrill. After spending two years in California, the school I was attending raised their tuition, and I wasn’t able to continue my education. I didn’t know what to do. My dad, who at the time was working at the General Council of Assemblies of God, suggested that I take a look at Evangel. From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew I was where God wanted me to be. I’ve always had a love for television. But, it became my passion as a student at Evangel. The communications department gave me the firm foundation I needed to begin building my career. And, the various theology classes all students are required to take taught me how to use my passion and career to serve God.
How did your experience at EU prepare you for life after graduation?
It’s no secret that I’m a dreamer. Almost daily, I come up with a new idea that I believe will be the latest and greatest. While dreaming big, God-sized dreams it good, often times it can seem daunting. Evangel University equipped me with the skills to learn how to carry those dreams out. Not only did I learn valuable skills from my education, but also how to engage God in everything I do. From making important decisions to waiting on Him to reveal my next steps, Evangel University took my relationship with Jesus to a deeper level.
Michael Gibson poses with his parents during the Mid-America Emmy Awards held in September, 2017.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
In any industry, it’s who you know. Don’t forget to take the time to network. During my junior year, Evangel opened the door for me to intern at the local television station that would later be the place that I would launch my first television endeavor. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of connections through Evangel. Even just a casual conversation with a professor or staff member might turn into a job opening. Plus, being able to learn to network now will be a great investment for you down the road.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from EU?
I would look for students who exemplify qualities that Evangel University holds important. Traits like a drive to work hard, socially and relationally savvy and someone who is deeply grounded in their faith. But, maybe the best trait to have for a future employee is a servants heart. The more someone asks, “How can I help you be successful?” or even a simple “What can I do today to help you achieve your goals?” can go a long way. There’s nothing better when an employer can have someone on their team who shows up ready and eager to help.