Marcus Betts wants to work for the NFL network. 

He’s a freshman broadcast reporting major with cerebral palsy and a passion for sports. 

Betts spoke about his first few days on campus starting his degree.

“It was chaotic because I have a disability and it takes more time to get my equipment on campus, my walker and wheelchair especially,” Betts said.

Betts spent the beginnings of his college career, time traditionally spent getting to know people on campus, moving between rooms in search of one that could comfortably fit his wheelchair, walker and personal possessions.

This experience is nothing new for college students with disabilities. 

Ramps are often too steep, handrails non-existent and elevators too crowded, making the process of moving in difficult.

Disabled college students often find it easier to stay closer to home when picking a school.

As a resident of Pittsburgh’s West End neighborhood, Betts chose to attend Point Park to pursue his post-secondary education. His aunt and cousins moved to Pittsburgh to help him follow his dream of working in broadcasting. 

“Having my aunt be here with me this semester and also my radio show was kind of a decompression for me,” Betts said.

His show, “MBJ Sports Talk” on Saturdays from 12:00 to 1:00 PM on WPPJ 670, discusses a wide range of sporting events from football to WWE.

“I feel like I wouldn’t be prepared for my career if I didn’t have a radio show,” Betts said.

Recent studies have shown that pursuing a hobby like broadcasting is effective for those with cerebral palsy in improving mental health and developing a sense of purpose.

“It gives me experience so that when I walk into a potential internship I know I’m not completely blind; I know the terminology, how the equipment works, and I can learn on the fly,” Betts said.

Betts continues to hone his writing and broadcast abilities in the hopes of one day finding himself on TV for the NFL.