The Media Lab

Where Stories Come to Life

The Media Lab at Florida Gulf Coast University is a creative production space where students transform ideas into professional content. Located in Lucas Hall, this studio gives students access to professional cameras, studio lighting, podcast equipment, editing workstations, and content creation tools that support every stage of digital storytelling. Students use the Media Lab to produce podcasts, create promotional videos, photograph products, develop social media campaigns, record interviews, and build professional portfolios. Whether launching a startup, growing a personal brand, or completing a class project, the Media Lab helps students create content that brings their ideas to market.

ENROLL IN SAFETY TRAINING Media lab CHECK-IN Lab Reservations SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK

What You’ll Find in the Media Lab

From podcasts and promotional videos to product photography and branded campaigns, the Media Lab provides students with the tools needed to create professional digital content. Whether producing assets for a startup, building a personal brand, or completing coursework, students gain hands-on experience using professional equipment in a real-world production environment.

Cameras & Video Production Equipment
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- Professional cameras
- Tripods
- Teleprompter equipment
- Video production accessories
Podcast & Audio Equipment
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- Podcast microphones
- Wireless microphones
- Audio mixers
- Recording accessories
Studio Lighting & Photography Equipment
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- Professional studio lights
- Portable lighting kits
- Reflectors
- Lighting accessories
Photography & Content Creation Tools
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- Product photography tools
- Content creation accessories
- Studio setup equipment
Backdrops & Studio Resources
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- Green screen backdrops
- Photography backdrops
- Studio table setups
Editing & Post-Production Workstation
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- Editing workstations
- Audio editing tools
- Content creation software

From Idea to Content: Getting Started

Getting access to the Media Lab is simple. Follow the steps below to get started.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
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The Media Lab is available to students and participants affiliated with the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Eligible users include:
- DKSOE undergraduate and graduate students
- Entrepreneurship minor students
- Rist Family Foundation Institute for Entrepreneurship Programs and Competition Participants, and approved student organizations,
If you’re unsure about eligibility, contact the Entrepreneurship Lab Manager before completing training.

DKSOE Programs
Step 2: Complete Lab Safety Training
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All users must complete the DKSOE Lab Safety Training prior to using the Media Lab.
- Training is delivered through Canvas.
- Covers general lab safety, equipment awareness, and space expectations
- Some equipment may require additional, tiered training before use
Completion of safety training is required before use of the Media Lab is approved.

ENROLL IN SAFETY TRAINING
Step 3: Reserve the Space
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Students can reserve the Media Lab for:
- Podcast recording
- Photography shoots
- Video production
- Product shoots
- Brand content creation
- Class projects
RESERVE THE MEDIA LAB
Step 4: Check In & Create Your Content
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When you arrive at the Media Lab:
- Visit the Makerspace (Lucas Hall 203) to have a staff member unlock the Media Lab.
- Check in using the Lab check-in link.
- Get support from staff or student assistants as needed.
- Bring your idea, files, and materials and start building.
All projects created in the Media Lab belong to you.

Media Lab CHECK-IN
Step 5: Share Your Feedback
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After using the Media Lab, you may be invited to share feedback about your experience.
- Your input helps improve equipment access, training, and overall operations.
- Feedback may include how you used the space, what you created, and suggestions for supplies or equipment that could improve the Media Lab.
Sharing feedback is optional but encouraged.

SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK

Rist Family Foundation Media Lab Staff

Name	Title	Email
Jonathan Schaffer	Entrepreneurship Lab Manager	jschaffer@fgcu.edu

Share Your Feedback – Help Us Improve the Media Lab

The Media Lab is built to support your creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning. We’re always looking for ways to make the space better for our students and community. Your feedback helps us understand what’s working well and where we can improve.

OPEN FEEDBACK SURVEY

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the labs?
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The Media Lab is open exclusively to Students currently enrolled in a course or degree program offered by the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship (DKSOE) or Participants in co-curricular programs offered by the Rist Family Foundation Institute for Entrepreneurship (RFIE).
Do I need training?
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Can I reserve the space?
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Can I use the Media Lab for my business?
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What if I need help?
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We're here to answer your questions

Rist Family Foundation Makerspace

Lucas Hall Room 203
10501 FGCU Blvd S
Fort Myers, Florida 33965

(239) 745-4647

(239) 745-4488