2025 Super Bowl Media Scholars Enter the Big League

Source: Kevin Sabitus / Getty

The 2025 Super Bowl saw the introduction of a new the NFL’s Media Scholar Program that provided aspiring journalists with a stage to show off their skills and develop them under professional mentors. During one of the biggest events in the sporting world, the students were hands-on in creating quality content and networking within the industry. Ravien Burns and Zuri Primos—two scholars from Dillard University—were able to gain insight into the fast-paced field.

Scholar Ravien Burns used her skills in content creation, broadcasting, and videography to further her aspirations of becoming the next sports analyst or journalist like her idols, Taylor Brooks or Janerika Owens. On the other hand, scholar Zuri Primos uses journalism as a tool for activism and employs her writing to facilitate important discussions. They were both drawn to the program’s appeal of skill refinement and real-world experience.

Working at Media Row for the Super Bowl LIX Experience, the two created unforgettable memories. Ravien will never forget interviewing and capturing footage of Chiefs’ players DeAndre Hopkins, Justyn Ross, and Darius Rush during Super Bowl Opening Night. Zuri’s highlight of the week was meeting fellow Kansas City native and entertainer Funny Marco, and having a genuine conversation. Burns said that it was so interactive, it was like Funny Marco was interviewing her Primos.

During the program, both participants learned how to manage their work according to the speed and intensity of large-scale events. Raven noted learning to think and seize opportunities quickly, while Zuri commented on the gratifying but exhausting schedule.

In the future, the two women know to embrace every learning opportunity and a chance to build solid connections in the industry to make their mark.

The Super Bowl New Orleans Media Scholar Program created a wave of diverse voices within sports journalism. Ravien Burns and Zuri Primos are two of the first trailblazers within the program who will continue to empower young journalists who will change the game.