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Graduates' Next American Dream

From: Jordan Nelson
Length: 03:33

This year's college graduates weigh in on what's next for the American Dream, in this piece by Jordan Nelson of KOSU in Stillwater, Okla. Read the full description.

Default-piece-image-2 Created in response to American Public Media's series, "The Next American Dream," this piece includes college graduates at their commencement ceremonies weighing in on what the American Dream means to them.  This piece is by Jordan Nelson, of KOSU in Stillwater, Okla.

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Piece Description

Created in response to American Public Media's series, "The Next American Dream," this piece includes college graduates at their commencement ceremonies weighing in on what the American Dream means to them.  This piece is by Jordan Nelson, of KOSU in Stillwater, Okla.

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Review for Graduates' Next American Dream

In this intriguing radio story, produced by Jordan Nelson, the hopes and worries of college graduates are captured just a year after the 2008 economic downturn.

Jordan recorded his piece at a commencement ceremony where is able to talk to around 10 graduates. This helps him show both the excitement of graduation and the uncertainty of the future, which is a good contrast. The piece creates a balance of hope and worry, but is overall optimistic.

My favorite thing in this piece was the voice of the producer, Jordan Nelson. His narration is strong and is not monotonous. Many radio producers can create a good story on paper, yet the voice can distract from the story if futile or monotonous. Jordan does a good job of being authoritative without being loud.

In terms of improvement, more ambient sound during the narration would be nice. For example, when talking about hope, ambient noise of the graduation ceremony could be layered under the narration.

Overall, though, this piece is well-made. Three years later, I wonder how these college graduates are doing.

Broadcast History

Broadcast on KOSU, May 2009.

Intro and Outro

INTRO:

2.5 kids, a house in the 'burbs, a white picket fence. That *was* the American Dream, but what *will be* the *next* American Dream? This year's college graduates told KOSU's Jordan Nelson what they think.

OUTRO:

Related Website

http://www.kosu.org