‘The College Tour’ Show Films at University of Memphis

Amazon Prime Video series tells student stories of academics, research, mentorships

February 20, 2024 — The University of Memphis will become among the latest higher ed institutions featured in “The College Tour” when the Amazon Prime Video show streams new episodes later this year.

The series, which began in 2020, is now filming its 12th season highlighting the perks of college life at various universities around the globe. Authentic stories from 10 UofM students comprise the University of Memphis episode, which began filming on campus this week.

Guided by host Alex Boylan, the 30-minute episode tells a story of what life is truly like on and around the University of Memphis, from academics and internships to the campus community and study abroad.

“The idea for “The College Tour” TV series came to me from my 16-year-old niece. Because of the pandemic and finances, she wasn’t able to travel to tour colleges,” said Boylan, who won CBS’s “The Amazing Race” in 2002 and went on to produce and host shows on PBS, CBS, the Travel Channel and more. “So, using our skills as executive producers we created a series inspired by her and millions of other young people who are interested in attending college.”

Filmed over one week in February, the episode kicks off with student Christina McKnight. McKnight, who attends the Lambuth Campus in Jackson, talks about campus life and belonging through her journey to become a Resident Advisor. Following her segment, nine other students share their UofM stories:

• Gage Farris talking about being a first-generation student and now, Peer Mentor
• Caleb Suggs sharing about industry connections and starting an independent film production company
• Ansley Ecker discussing internships and networking through campus organizations
• Donovan McLemore sharing about mentorships and creating Grind City Hoops
• Tony Miles talking about student success and leading at several organizations including the Hooks Africa American Male Initiative
• Charles Ratcliff discussing research and experiential learning at the Community Health Building
• Liliana McKenna sharing about her study abroad experience in Japan
• Sree Malya Bathina talking about graduate school and transformative experiences found at the UofM
• Suzie Perry discussing access via the Education Support Program

As the episode unfolds, students discuss the intensive and extensive educational environment at the UofM and how industry and research drive many of their rewarding experiences.

“While the ‘The College Tour’ highlights the many incredible features of the UofM and its campus, our students stand out as the true VIPs of this series,” said President Bill Hardgrave. “We are no strangers to their passion, determination and enthusiasm, so we are absolutely thrilled the world gets to be introduced to them now as well.”

“The College Tour” was created by Boylan, Lisa Hennessy and Burton Roberts, a team of successful entrepreneurs in the TV, social media and technology space.

The University of Memphis episode will be available to view soon by visiting thecollegetour.com.

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Jennifer Godwin
Director of Media and Public Relations
jennifer.godwin@memphis.edu
(O) 901.678.4822 (M) 501.529.7482