Beyond Script: What it Takes to Be an MC

Written by Eileen, a sophomore at Bangkok University

A few weeks ago, I pushed my limits. I served as an MC for the 12th BUCA Talent Final Stage, a yearly event where high school students showcase their talents for a CommArts scholarship at Bangkok University. It was the Final Stage that worried me the most because it was a crucial day for students deciding their educational paths. Over a hundred people attended the event, with over a thousand more watching it live on stream.

Initially, I hadn't considered applying as an MC for the Final Stage, but a friend encouraged me to join. To my surprise, I found myself among the finalists. It brought me joy but also nervousness. My first time on stage was quite unpolished. To speak smoothly, I focused on understanding the flow of the entire event, memorizing paragraphs rather than every single word in the script.

As an MC, I realized the significance of representing the event. Attendees' experiences depended on my performance since I had to relay the director's instructions via walkie-talkie. It required grasping the event's mood and maintaining a balanced voice dynamic to engage the crowd. Also, I had to handle unforeseen situations like missed cues and technical issues.

Being an MC taught me the importance of maintaining a positive attitude. When judges' comments could potentially upset students, I aimed to keep the atmosphere upbeat. I used to believe that MCs needed to be forceful, but I learned that it's more about finding the right balance in voice dynamics. Consistently using an enthusiastic voice could make nervous students even more anxious.

A good MC should articulate clearly, keep the event flowing smoothly, manage unexpected challenges, and possess a pleasant personality. However, all of these qualities are meaningless if I merely recite the script without genuine engagement. The key lies in maintaining the mindset and attitude of wanting to create the best experience for students. I'm grateful to my friends and seniors who helped me grow. Although my performance wasn't flawless, I cherished every moment of the event.