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- For reports on their work experiences, check out Summer in London ‘09: Life in London.
- Read their reports, Summer in London ‘09: Reflections on British media.
- To read about the 2009 program, check out Summer in London ‘09.
Going to the ‘dark side,’ by Alex Farris
Learning about freelancing, by Jessica Haney
‘The intern’ makes a name for herself, by Katherine Hagan
Rising to the task of saving the news, by CJ Lotz
Weighing citizen media and mainstream, by Elvia Malagon
Making the sports-to-news adjustment, by Zina Kumok
Facing the ‘toilet terrors,’ by Courtney Miller
The magic of the CNBC news room, by Sam Mooney
Adapting work to a new audience, by Sarah Hutchins
Learning while ‘across the pond,’ by Rachel Stark
Out-of-classroom experiences, by Zach Schalk
Rubbing shoulders with rock stars, by Kelsey McArdle
Cultivating creativity, by Amanda Ross
First days, by Brooke Lichtman
Learning to be a maverick seductress (a.k.a. PR practitioner), by Genevieve Postlethwait
Getting my feet wet in PR, by Katie Fay
Newspapers to magazines: a new experience, by Caitlin Johnston
If only they knew… by Sam Leffers
Journalism in the business world, by Nick Cusack
Life at work:
Journalism in the business world
By Nick CusackJuly 21, 2009
SRMedia creates magazines for international students thinking about studying in the U.S. or the European Union. Someone who works there used to write for Variety magazine, another is one of about eight of Beyonce’s Western European press people. I’m sure others have similar stories.
But, all these people sell ads. The only person in the company who writes for the eight magazines, Emily, sits at a desk in the corner of office, away from everyone. She said she was self-taught in journalism. She went to university, then worked at a bookstore for a while and somehow found her way to the company. I think she said she’s from Suffolk, somewhere rural. It’s not the ideal job for a journalist, so I couldn’t figure out why she worked so hard for so long there.
She told me one day that these magazines are the way media works. Sometimes you have to write in a way that pleases advertisers, a way which maybe doesn’t serve readers. Money is important. Sometimes you just have to make things work and sometimes that means making things up if it serves a higher purpose. Sometimes you don’t have time (and she was overwhelmed) and you have to cut corners, get stories out quickly. It’s not the stuff they teach you in journalism school and it’s not stuff the IDS would ever put up with.
I would never do any of that, if I had to I would quit journalism. It wouldn’t be worth it. But, it is good to learn how the world works and it did make me wonder if I’m ready for it. Emily was concerned with getting information out there for international students, even if she had to cut corners. The people around her were concerned with making money. None of this is a bad thing, it’s just counter-intuitive to what I’ve learned at Ernie Pyle Hall.
I learned two things from my time there, which was reinforced in the class we all took. First, don’t believe everything you read or hear – even in the New York Times. Second, the journalism they teach you in college is difficult to produce and unprofitable, which is a problem because the world is run by business people.
She told me one day that these magazines are the way media works. Sometimes you have to write in a way that pleases advertisers, a way which maybe doesn’t serve readers. Money is important. Sometimes you just have to make things work and sometimes that means making things up if it serves a higher purpose. Sometimes you don’t have time (and she was overwhelmed) and you have to cut corners, get stories out quickly. It’s not the stuff they teach you in journalism school and it’s not stuff the IDS would ever put up with.
I would never do any of that, if I had to I would quit journalism. It wouldn’t be worth it. But, it is good to learn how the world works and it did make me wonder if I’m ready for it. Emily was concerned with getting information out there for international students, even if she had to cut corners. The people around her were concerned with making money. None of this is a bad thing, it’s just counter-intuitive to what I’ve learned at Ernie Pyle Hall.
I learned two things from my time there, which was reinforced in the class we all took. First, don’t believe everything you read or hear – even in the New York Times. Second, the journalism they teach you in college is difficult to produce and unprofitable, which is a problem because the world is run by business people.
If only they knew
By Sam LeffersJuly 12, 2009
Never has an experience made me feel so informed and embarrassingly ignorant at the same time.
Of all the IU journalism students in London, I felt that I had close to, if not the most, experience in public relations. Needless to say, I was pretty confident heading into my position at a London financial, corporate and property PR firm, of which I will not mention the name for several reasons.
Too bad all that “experience” ended up meaning next to nothing.
There is so much more to PR than I imagined, and the thought of all the work it takes to handle just a single client is mind-boggling. Wriglesworth handles scores of them and with a staff of fewer than 30 people.
While I bound manuals and filed documents with little regard to overall strategy (I did more challenging tasks, mind you, but I’m not above some intern-specific menial labor), my teammates were implementing and formulating plans to keep some of London’s largest financial institutions in the public eye.
I would have felt less humbled had the company been made up entirely of experienced, veteran PR folk. As it is, most of the people sitting at my table were no more than three years older than me.
Although I have no idea where I’ll be in three years, I can only hope that my job confidence will be as high as these people’s.
But my confidence did grow as the summer progressed. As a person with little regard to financial issues beyond my personal beer fund, it took a rather large effort to learn the ropes.
For one, the writing style is incredibly different. Coming from a background of newspaper reporting, I’m used to explaining everything in terms that an average person can understand. When you write a placed article for a financial publication, your audience is composed entirely of CEOs, analysts and general experts in the field – yikes.
There are, however, differences between being an expert and sounding like an expert. I found that out eventually, and tend to think my articles started sounding pretty expertly written… if only they knew.
If only they knew I had never heard of 100 percent of the topics I ended up writing about. If only they knew I was on Google looking up the meaning of every other phrase I came across. If only they knew I wasn’t entirely sure what some of the acronyms I used even stood for.
I may have only disguised myself as a finance expert for two months, but I know I’ve learned more than I could have hoped.
I still may be woefully ignorant, but now I can at least pretend. That’s what really counts, right?
There is so much more to PR than I imagined, and the thought of all the work it takes to handle just a single client is mind-boggling. Wriglesworth handles scores of them and with a staff of fewer than 30 people.
While I bound manuals and filed documents with little regard to overall strategy (I did more challenging tasks, mind you, but I’m not above some intern-specific menial labor), my teammates were implementing and formulating plans to keep some of London’s largest financial institutions in the public eye.
I would have felt less humbled had the company been made up entirely of experienced, veteran PR folk. As it is, most of the people sitting at my table were no more than three years older than me.
Although I have no idea where I’ll be in three years, I can only hope that my job confidence will be as high as these people’s.
But my confidence did grow as the summer progressed. As a person with little regard to financial issues beyond my personal beer fund, it took a rather large effort to learn the ropes.
For one, the writing style is incredibly different. Coming from a background of newspaper reporting, I’m used to explaining everything in terms that an average person can understand. When you write a placed article for a financial publication, your audience is composed entirely of CEOs, analysts and general experts in the field – yikes.
There are, however, differences between being an expert and sounding like an expert. I found that out eventually, and tend to think my articles started sounding pretty expertly written… if only they knew.
If only they knew I had never heard of 100 percent of the topics I ended up writing about. If only they knew I was on Google looking up the meaning of every other phrase I came across. If only they knew I wasn’t entirely sure what some of the acronyms I used even stood for.
I may have only disguised myself as a finance expert for two months, but I know I’ve learned more than I could have hoped.
I still may be woefully ignorant, but now I can at least pretend. That’s what really counts, right?
Newspapers to magazines: a new experience
By Caitlin JohnstonJuly 5, 2009
“Newspaper, not magazine,” I remember telling Leslie several times throughout our interview. I’ve been involved with newspapers for eight years now. They’re what I know and love, and what I was going to London to get more experience with. Sure, magazines are fun, glossy and have pretty pictures. But I’m a newspaper reporter. What could I possibly learn from working at a magazine?
A lot, apparently.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Caitlin Johnston interned at Shots magazine. The newspaper reporter said she has learned a lot as she’s transitioned to this style of writing. |
Going into the program, I was extremely nervous about the placement. I kept wondering if I should have complained more about being at a magazine or pushed more for a different internship. I kicked myself repeatedly when we landed in the midst of the biggest political scandal to hit Britain in years. As a political science major, I should be reporting on that.
But I quickly learned that while Shots is different from any place I have ever worked – or maybe because of that – there was a vast amount for me to learn there.
Shots has a very small staff. With a news/editorial staff of five people, plus a few tech or Web guys, it’s a very cozy atmosphere. Nearly everyone who works there is fairly young, which automatically made it easier to adapt. Without a doubt, my favorite part of this internship has been interacting with the staff. I have learned so much from all of them, about journalism and life in general. Since Shots covers the creative industries, our work has to be fresh and creative enough to catch its attention. This fosters a great atmosphere to work in, and constantly pushes us to come up with new, exciting ideas.
I had no issues completing a majority of the tasks I was assigned. Because Shots has such a small staff, it relies on interns. From day one, I was thrown in to the thick of things. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I was writing briefs, editing videos, posting things online and quickly adapting to the magazine.
However, my biggest challenge has been adapting my writing style. Switching from newspaper to magazine is hard enough, but that increases tenfold when the magazine’s audience is creatives. Time and time again, I would look up at my computer screen to see my pieces reworked and covered in red font: “good ideas, need more attitude;” “great structure, need more voice.”
Now, growing up with two parents who are writers, I am used to having my work torn apart and view this as a learning process. But I was befuddled. I wanted to improve, but I didn’t know how to get myself over this creative hurdle. Slowly, but surely, I began to fine-tune my writing. I’m sure it’s nowhere near the level they’re used to, but for me, I’ve come a long way.
Getting my feet wet in PR
By Katie FayJune 29, 2009
Last summer, I worked as an editorial intern for a business newspaper. The experience introduced a whole new world to me, so I was very excited when I was placed at The Wriglesworth Consultancy, a business specific public relations firm.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Katie Fay on the job in London, where she says she’s learned a lot about British PR. |
Every morning I came in to work to save and track all of the press cuttings in which any of the corporate team’s clients had been mentioned in the days before. After that, my tasks could include anything from updating press contact lists, managing spreadsheets or “having a stab” at writing quotes or press releases. Tea was of course especially popular with the members of my team, so my duties often included going on “tea rounds.”
Even though I learned a lot about business the year before, I had a great deal to learn about British business and the work of our clients. I spent a lot of time just researching to learn more about the companies we worked for.
While there have been times my eyes have bugged out from staring too long at an Excel sheet, I never minded doing any of the work I was assigned. I knew the work I was doing was helping my co-workers immensely and was helping them focus on more important tasks. Working on spreadsheets and setting up lunches made those “stabs” at writing more exciting and made me work even harder.
I learned so much from just being around the corporate team. I watched them deal with stressful situations, saw them interact with press and clients, and soaked up as much advice as they could give. All of these experiences have been invaluable to me.
I came into my internship with newspaper experience. Needless to say, jumping into public relations was a great challenge and my job pushed me every step of the way. In just a few short weeks, I feel I’ve learned a lot about the industry and I’m looking forward to taking public relations classes at IU in the future.
Learning to be a maverick seductress (a.k.a. PR practitioner)
By Genevieve PostlethwaitJune 24, 2009
Placement: Bondage for Freedom (BFF)
Description: A maverick bunch of creatives, pooling their talents to rebel rouse the world into positive change.
This was my first introduction to my London internship, and upon reading it only a week before we departed, I was elated.
BFF sounded as if it were made for me, a fusion of my interests in journalism, international human rights/social movements and art. The more I learned about BFF, the more anxious I was to start.
Led by Sam Roddick, daughter of the late Anita Roddick (activist and founder of The Body Shop), BFF has orchestrated numerous "art protests" in London, raising heaps of money for humanitarian causes and organizations. The BFF protests I saw on YouTube were incredibly thought-provoking, fantastic spectacles that boldly claimed the spotlight for otherwise overlooked issues. And I was soon to be a part of it.
On my first day of work, I quickly realized there was even more to this maverick bunch of creatives than my e-investigation back home revealed. In actuality, BFF is the "activist arm" of Coco de Mer, Sam’s luxurious, socially and environmentally friendly erotic emporium that claims to be "unashamedly about sex," an interesting twist. My first thought was of what my mom might say when I told her about this connection, a thought that made me laugh. At first, I didn’t quite catch the connection between Sam’s shop and Sam’s activism. However, over the past month I’ve grown to understand that the art of seduction has a place at Coco de Mer as well as in activism and PR.
At Bondage for Freedom, there’s really no such thing as a typical work day. Some have been filled with research, research and more research. I’ve compiled reports on an odd assortment of issues including feminism and burlesque dancing, homeless women in London, and rape as a weapon of war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Sometimes the material I’m delving into is rather light-hearted and "cheeky." Other times, it pushes me to the brink of tears, but never is it boring. One day I accompanied Sam to a V-Day Campaign breakfast at Parliament, a small gathering of leading women, such as Sam, sharing ideas and volunteering talents and resources to end the violence against women in the Congo.
Lately my time has been consumed with preparing for next month’s Burlesque Protest, brainstorming and planning with leaders in the burlesque community and taking stock of past BFF props we might re-use (wigs, body suits, a human-sized cage and giant Burmese monks painted by famous graffiti artist Mau Mau).
Though there’s nothing “typical” about working at BFF, there are a few things that remain constant. No matter the issue we’re addressing, we’re always devising ways to “irretrievably seduce” people through our art, leading them to discover the importance of the issues for themselves.
Also, constantly hearing "brilliant!" and "fantastic!" is quite encouraging. Most important, everyone I work with is passionate about what he or she does, and it’s infectious. That’s something I hope never changes.
Led by Sam Roddick, daughter of the late Anita Roddick (activist and founder of The Body Shop), BFF has orchestrated numerous "art protests" in London, raising heaps of money for humanitarian causes and organizations. The BFF protests I saw on YouTube were incredibly thought-provoking, fantastic spectacles that boldly claimed the spotlight for otherwise overlooked issues. And I was soon to be a part of it.
On my first day of work, I quickly realized there was even more to this maverick bunch of creatives than my e-investigation back home revealed. In actuality, BFF is the "activist arm" of Coco de Mer, Sam’s luxurious, socially and environmentally friendly erotic emporium that claims to be "unashamedly about sex," an interesting twist. My first thought was of what my mom might say when I told her about this connection, a thought that made me laugh. At first, I didn’t quite catch the connection between Sam’s shop and Sam’s activism. However, over the past month I’ve grown to understand that the art of seduction has a place at Coco de Mer as well as in activism and PR.
At Bondage for Freedom, there’s really no such thing as a typical work day. Some have been filled with research, research and more research. I’ve compiled reports on an odd assortment of issues including feminism and burlesque dancing, homeless women in London, and rape as a weapon of war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Sometimes the material I’m delving into is rather light-hearted and "cheeky." Other times, it pushes me to the brink of tears, but never is it boring. One day I accompanied Sam to a V-Day Campaign breakfast at Parliament, a small gathering of leading women, such as Sam, sharing ideas and volunteering talents and resources to end the violence against women in the Congo.
Lately my time has been consumed with preparing for next month’s Burlesque Protest, brainstorming and planning with leaders in the burlesque community and taking stock of past BFF props we might re-use (wigs, body suits, a human-sized cage and giant Burmese monks painted by famous graffiti artist Mau Mau).
Though there’s nothing “typical” about working at BFF, there are a few things that remain constant. No matter the issue we’re addressing, we’re always devising ways to “irretrievably seduce” people through our art, leading them to discover the importance of the issues for themselves.
Also, constantly hearing "brilliant!" and "fantastic!" is quite encouraging. Most important, everyone I work with is passionate about what he or she does, and it’s infectious. That’s something I hope never changes.
First days
By Brooke LichtmanJune 23, 2009
First days are always different. They are always filled with a mix of emotions — excitement, curiosity, anxiousness, fear, happiness, nervousness. You get the picture.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Brooke Lichtman catalogued her mistakes on her first day at Chase PR, but says she has weathered the little storms to learn a lot this summer. |
For the past few weeks, I have been interning at a fashion public relations company, Chase PR. When I heard about my internship, I was ecstatic. Seeing that my major is journalism with a concentration in public relations and advertising, and my minor is apparel and merchandising, I figured that this internship couldn’t be any more perfect for me. I, along with many other good friends and family, agreed that this would be an ideal blend of all my academic interests and an amazing opportunity to get hands on experience in a field that I could see myself pursuing in the near future.
Seeing that London is one of the fashion capitals of the world, I couldn’t help but have scenes from The Devil Wears Prada run through my mind as my first day at Chase crept up on me. Needless to say, I was nervous, excited, intimidated and could only hope for the best.
On my first day, I left an hour and a half early for work, despite being told that it would only take 45 minutes to get there. I’m not one to pretend that I have a great sense of direction, because I don’t. It’s never been one of my strong suits and seeing that I was in a huge new city that was built hundreds of years ago, before the concept of a city grid ever occurred to anyone as a good idea, I figured I’d better play it safe.
Apparently, an extra 45 minutes was not enough leeway. My bus was running late and after finally getting to the correct stop, I was led in the total opposite direction of where I was supposed to be. Oh, and don’t worry, I forgot my map at home that day, too. After two calls to Chase PR and some serious good luck, I made it to work only a half hour late. Oops No. 1.
To my relief the Chase PR office was nothing like The Devil Wears Prada. Nonetheless, the first day faux pas didn’t end there. When I came in, I was showed around the office, introduced to the staff and met the other intern, Ruth.
However, as I met everyone, each and every person asked me “Are you alright?” At first, I just blew it off, but by about the third time, I was concerned. I kept thinking to myself, “Of course I’m alright, why do they keep asking? Do I not look alright? Did I look upset or sick? Is there something wrong with me that I don’t know about? Little did I know, “Are you alright?” is equivalent to our “How are you?” Oops No. 2.
As Chase PR is a fashion-based company, we have two huge showrooms in the office. There, we can display our client’s line for that season (with more than 30 clients, we have a lot of clothes in these showrooms) and publications reps can either come in and pick out what they want to feature or we select items to send to various publications to feature in their magazines or newspapers.
With all these clothes and all these clients, one of my jobs as an intern is to make sure that the showrooms are neat and organized so we know where everything is. I dutifully jumped right into this task and piled my arms high with whatever clothes needed to be put away at the moment and headed down the stairs to one of the showrooms. I quickly learned that three inch heels and a three-foot high pile of clothes are not a good combination at all. Luckily, I fell down only a few stairs, popped right back up and didn’t wear heels to work again. Oops No. 3.
Last but not least, I managed to get myself locked in the bathroom that day, too (However, I hear this one wasn’t an uncommon accident among our fellow Hoosier students). After trying to figure it out on my own, I finally knocked on the door from the inside and Ruth came to my rescue. Apparently, the door gets jammed every now and again and it happens all the time. Still, in addition to my other “accomplishments” of the day, it was still no less embarrassing. Oops No. 4.
Despite my first few mishaps, things have been running smoothly ever since. I am learning a lot and getting great field experience while working at Chase PR.
Cultivating creativity
By Amanda RossJune 23, 2009
While in London, I have been working at a small public relations firm with big dreams. These big dreams stem from big clients (previous clients include Starbucks UK) and a sense of creativity unmatched by any I have seen in the States.
Maybe this is because of my limited experience with the public relations world. Yes, I’ve taken J321, but how does sitting in a lecture hall at Ernie Pyle give you the knowledge needed for the real world? Put simply, it doesn’t. That’s why my experience living and working in London has been invaluable. Priceless. Nowhere else would I have received this calibre of on-the-job experience and real world know-how.
One of my firm’s clients has reached the 30-year anniversary of a highly successful program. The question was how to use this to the company’s advantage, to involve the media and consumer in a campaign that would highlight the trustworthiness and timelessness of a classic program.
The solution? Take the culture of the last 30 years, from celebrity marriages to sports to toys to movies, and count the ones that lasted. This was my job. To be honest, there weren’t many. John Travolta, “I Will Survive,” 60 Minutes and miniskirts were just a few. These lasting artifacts of 1979 culture are essentially timeless, the perfect way to relate to a company’s most trusted program.
While researching, I was dumbfounded. Such a simple idea, a great way to compare the program to other classic things. How this will all come together, I still do not know, but there’s one thing I do. I never would have thought of it on my own. My mind just doesn’t think so far out of the box.
This kind of thing happens on a daily basis, creativity from depths that I know I could never reach spouting out from each person like water from a fountain. It just happens. It’s the PR mind. During brainstorms, I find myself astounded at the brilliant ideas bouncing around, knowing that nothing I say could compare. Not to put myself down, but I’m not quite at that level yet. I know it’s there but I just need to dig deeper.
My contributions are visible, though. My press releases have turned into actual stories in dailies like The Sun, the Times, and the Daily Telegraph. I stare at the pages on my screen in disbelief, but I know that I’ve accomplished something. My writing skills have been honed and perfected to fit the mould of the PR writer: quick, concise and witty. We want to intrigue the news desk with our hilarious puns and imaginative word play. The creativity bug has bitten again.
To work in public relations, you’ve got to be more than smart. You must be able to do more than write words or draw a pretty picture. You have to say something, send a message and deliver it in a brilliant way. It all boils down to one word: creativity.
And I can safely say that I never would have been able to delve deep within myself to find that imagination if I hadn’t had the opportunity to work here. Now I know that with a little more digging I’ll find that genius that radiates around me in the office. But this time it will be my own, and I’ll know how to harness it.
One of my firm’s clients has reached the 30-year anniversary of a highly successful program. The question was how to use this to the company’s advantage, to involve the media and consumer in a campaign that would highlight the trustworthiness and timelessness of a classic program.
The solution? Take the culture of the last 30 years, from celebrity marriages to sports to toys to movies, and count the ones that lasted. This was my job. To be honest, there weren’t many. John Travolta, “I Will Survive,” 60 Minutes and miniskirts were just a few. These lasting artifacts of 1979 culture are essentially timeless, the perfect way to relate to a company’s most trusted program.
While researching, I was dumbfounded. Such a simple idea, a great way to compare the program to other classic things. How this will all come together, I still do not know, but there’s one thing I do. I never would have thought of it on my own. My mind just doesn’t think so far out of the box.
This kind of thing happens on a daily basis, creativity from depths that I know I could never reach spouting out from each person like water from a fountain. It just happens. It’s the PR mind. During brainstorms, I find myself astounded at the brilliant ideas bouncing around, knowing that nothing I say could compare. Not to put myself down, but I’m not quite at that level yet. I know it’s there but I just need to dig deeper.
My contributions are visible, though. My press releases have turned into actual stories in dailies like The Sun, the Times, and the Daily Telegraph. I stare at the pages on my screen in disbelief, but I know that I’ve accomplished something. My writing skills have been honed and perfected to fit the mould of the PR writer: quick, concise and witty. We want to intrigue the news desk with our hilarious puns and imaginative word play. The creativity bug has bitten again.
To work in public relations, you’ve got to be more than smart. You must be able to do more than write words or draw a pretty picture. You have to say something, send a message and deliver it in a brilliant way. It all boils down to one word: creativity.
And I can safely say that I never would have been able to delve deep within myself to find that imagination if I hadn’t had the opportunity to work here. Now I know that with a little more digging I’ll find that genius that radiates around me in the office. But this time it will be my own, and I’ll know how to harness it.
Rubbing shoulders with rock stars
By Kelsey McArdleJune 20, 2009
The title of “intern” comes with an obvious stigma. As a code word for “lackey,” the eager-to-learn college student (operating sans funding, no less) can easily get stuck with menial tasks when working in a largely bureaucratic company. If the boss doesn’t want to do it, the intern surely will.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Kelsey McArdle (sitting) enjoyed meeting one of her favorite singers, Brody Dalle, (top row, left) of the band, Spinnerette. |
Sure, I’ve washed my share of dishes, but when you’re working with four other people, one of whom is your fellow intern, you find yourself doing these things merely out of necessity and helpfulness — and OK, those few extra brownie points never hurt anybody.
Aside from my kitchen escapades, which I now welcome as a relaxing part of my daily routine, I’m treated as a member of staff who is merely trying to learn the ropes. Oh, and have I ever.
From my first day at Bang On, a music PR and events company that focuses on online media, I was thrown into the hectic nature of the music industry. Whether it is talking to bloggers or event organizers, I help to promote a cache of artists and festivals that, luckily, I can stand behind. I’m lucky to work with bands I actually like, so the job is more than enjoyable.
While perks include going to shows for free (who doesn’t like that?), the biggest plus of all has been the people I’ve met in the process. From music journalists to founders of magazines to musicians, I’m constantly rubbing shoulders with people I’d trade places with in a second.
However, there’s one certain person I could have never imagined meeting. As a 13-year-old who was just discovering punk music, one of my music idols was Brody Dalle, singer for the band the Distillers (and wife of Queens of the Stone Age singer Josh Homme, to boot). Imagine my utter glee when I was told that her latest band, Spinnerette, became our latest client. My geek levels went off the charts as I gladly did extra research for my boss for the campaign.
The luckiest part? Dalle would be in town doing press (that we coordinated) while I am here, and because of my work—and let’s be honest, extreme fandom—my boss invited me along to the junket. It was a music nerd’s dream come true.
To be brief, the junket went relatively well. Not only did I meet some wonderful journalists, but I talked to Dalle and her guitarist, Tony Bevilacqua, as well as snapped a few quick photos in which, I admit, my smile is extra excited and extra cheesy. My trip was made in that single day.
Since then, I’ve come to truly appreciate how very lucky I am to intern at a company that so greatly caters to my interests. I dream every day of becoming successful in music journalism or PR, and my short time here has only made it feel that much more attainable.
I’ll be sad to leave behind Bang On, as I love what I do and especially care for the people I work with, but I know I will never forget what I’ve picked up during my time in that tiny office in East London. Not only can I coordinate and create a beautifully organized event guest list in Excel, but I’ve mastered my dishwashing technique to a T.
Beat that.
Out-of-classroom experiences
By Zach Schalk
June 18, 2009
My average workday starts on the famed London underground. Fighting against the morning commuters exiting at the Chancery Lane stop, I make my way to the westbound platform of the Central line to head toward Oxford Circus.
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| Photo by Jessica Haney |
| Zach Schalk has given up his iPod to better hear the sounds of London on his daily commute to work. Here, he takes time out from his internship to visit Stonehenge. |
Maybe it’s because I’m used to the wardrobe of a college town or maybe it’s just my general lack of fashion sense, but I’m still impressed every morning at the attire of the workers who share my train.
In Bloomington, I never leave for class without my iPod, but here I’ve taken to keeping my ears open. Every day, my ears are awash in the thick accents still foreign to me—“Mind the gap; mind the closing doors,” a voice reminds me before and after every stop.
We all rock and sway together, maintaining our balance while fighting against the tube’s not-so-gentle sway. At Oxford Circus, I flow with the traffic through the underground station on my way to the Southbound Victoria line and repeat the process for another four stops. Upon reaching my destination—Vauxhall—I am greeted by a welcome burst of cool air that rushes down the stairs from the street level above.
My first sight upon reaching the surface is the modern day fortress that houses MI-6—a towering, intimidating structure of tinted glass and stone. Could M be looking down at me from her top corner office?
As I walk eastward, across a busy street from the south bank of the Thames, I get a full view of classic British architecture—the Tate Britain, Parliament, Big Ben. Finally, about 40 minutes after I departed, I reach my office.
Working in the editorial department of Real World Magazine, a graduate recruit magazine distributed at universities throughout the U.K., I have learned all about Britain’s education system as well as its job markets. The magazine’s goal is to educate students on the opportunities available to them once they reach the workforce.
Because I am working here in the summer when the school year is out, I won’t be around when any magazines are published. However, I have been lucky enough to be given many hands-on opportunities and I expect several articles to be published when the magazines are distributed in the fall. I have also been writing several short news stories for the Real World Web site and I’ve become quite proficient with uploading material on the site.
The experience has been invaluable and enjoyable. If anything, it has gone by too fast. I can’t say yet what kind of effect these eight weeks will have on my future career path—and with a few more years to think it over, I’m in no hurry. What they have done is given me the confidence to know that no matter what I choose to pursue, I can do it. That’s simply something that can’t be learned in a classroom.
Learning while ‘across the pond’
By Rachel StarkJune 16, 2009
I may be on summer break, but school is still fresh on my mind. And to be honest, that’s OK with me. As an intern at Student Recruitment Media, I write educational stories to aid students interested in studying abroad, students just like me who yearn for a burst of knowledge gained not only from sitting inside a classroom but also from exploring the streets of new lands.
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| Courtesy photo |
| IU students Rachel Stark and Nick Cusack both are working at SR Media this summer. |
One of the best parts of journalism is that you are constantly learning, and my time spent as an intern in London has definitely increased my depth of knowledge.
Through my research for a story, I learned all about the new rules for getting a Visa in the U.K., just implemented this past spring. Understanding that information so thoroughly before my departure for London would have saved much confusion.
I also wrote a piece about staying in touch with home for international students. By researching Skype, Twitter and Facebook, among others forms of communication, I now know the ins and outs of keeping in touch with my own loved ones back in the States. (You’re welcome, Mom!)
Also, who knew the international headquarters of Facebook was located in Dublin, the very spot I will be heading to in one week? After coming across that, I quickly stored the information in the back of my mind for a quirky stop while we’re roaming the streets of the city.
In addition, I now know more than enough about U.K. scholarships, distance learning and international student travel cards.
But details about obtaining a Visa and names of scholarships will fade from my memory. Perhaps the most useful realization I’ve had while here is the importance of keeping your audience in mind while writing. It’s motivating for me to picture students like me living in France, Kenya and Poland reading the stories I’ve written.
I call on my own experiences in a new country when brainstorming possible angles for stories. I ask myself if I have laid out the information as clearly as possible for these students after I’ve completed a story. What would I, as a student studying abroad, need to know before traveling across the pond?
Studying abroad is an experience any student should have if possible and I can only hope that at least one of the stories written during my time here assists a student interested in overseas study.
Adapting work to a new audience
By Sarah HutchinsJune 8, 2009
I’m halfway through my internship at In-Store News and most days I still feel like I am living in a foreign land where no one speaks my language (or rather, I don’t speak theirs).
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| Courtesy photo |
| Sarah Hutchins attended a conference recently at the Tower of London, where she networked with other professionals and reported on presentations. She’s learning to apply her reporting skills to the retail industry. |
Before arriving in London, I had an internship and two years of collegiate media under my belt. I expected writing news briefs and features to be a breeze. My first day of work was busy: I was thrown right into reporting and writing multiple news stories. I work in a large office building in Oxford Circus, but the In-Store staff is only three people (including me).
Immediately, I was overwhelmed by the retail jargon. I had to learn about POP, POS, ERMIS, EAS technology, like-for-like sales and EBITDA. Despite my retail research before the trip, I knew nothing about business reporting, let alone the London retail industry.
I opened up a Post-It on my Mac and started making a list of all of the new terms I was learning, but even that wasn’t sufficient. Sometimes, concepts need to be explained when I simplified them. Sometimes, they could be abbreviated when I spelled them out.
The second week, I was given a 900-word feature to report and write. My task was to walk readers through a store opening, from design through completion. I talked to creative directors, designers, shop fitters and retail managers.
At first, it was hard to explain to family and friends why, exactly, this assignment was so challenging. After several days of though, I traced it back to audience.
At every publication I have worked for, I have been a member of the audience. I am a college student working for a college paper and was a citizen of St. Louis when I interned at the Suburban Journals of Greater St. Louis last summer.
Now, I am working at a publication where I cannot relate to my audience. I am not a Londoner (despite my attempts to fit in) and I am not in the retail industry. I can’t get in the heads of my readers and figure out what they know and what they need to know.
Each day is a struggle as I attempt to take in and synthesize new retail business information, while still fulfilling my journalistic duties. I never would have pursued an internship like this on my own, but now that I’m here, I’m happy I’ve had the opportunity to try out a different area of journalism.
I’ve been forced to go back journalism basics, asking the who, what, when, where, why and how each story. I’ve been forced way, way out of my comfort zone and that’s why study abroad is really all about.
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| Photo by Alex Farris |
| Though he’s working at CNBC, Sam Mooney also has made time to visit landmarks such as Dover Castle. |
The magic of the CNBC news room
By Sam MooneyMay 31, 2009
The bright sunlight of the London morning peaks through the curtains hanging inches from my head, inevitably waking me up a good 10 minutes before my alarm goes off. I moan and groan and roll over, my bed on the top bunk screeching and threatening to collapse at any moment.
I peek my head up to see if the bathroom’s occupied. Of course it is. My alarm goes off. I moan and groan and roll over, struggling to turn it off in my first minutes of consciousness. In a little under two hours, I’ve got to report to my internship at CNBC in London.
I climb down the ladder from the top bunk and search for a spot on the floor to land that isn’t covered in clothes or books. I jump down, hitting the floor at an awkward angle and stumble to the kitchen. I take a swig of orange juice straight from the jug and grab my laptop. I check my e-mail and Facebook. Finally, the fog of sleep starts to fade and the rest of my morning routine is a breeze. Shower, dress, eat soggy cereal, brush my teeth, and head out the door at about 9:40.
CNBC, conveniently enough, is a short 15-minute walk from our flat on Hatton Garden. After cautiously making my way through Holborn Circus, I walk down to the imposing black steel structure not far from the infamous Fleet Street. I walk into the grand lobby, show my “Temp Staff” ID badge, and am granted access to the bank of five elevators, or should I say “lifts.”
Before I know it, the lift doors open, and a large blue sign with the NBC logo and the letters “CNBC” underneath greets me. I still find it hard to believe that I belong here. I scan my ID badge at the large glass doors, and I walk into the office. I turn to my left and I’m immediately walking by the studio, usually bustling with activity, as everyone is getting ready to begin the program “Worldwide Exchange.”
I take another right, and I quickly find my desk. Not 30 feet from the studio, I’m right in the heart of the CNBC newsroom. Surrounding me are people from Italy, South Africa, the United States, Italy and, of course, the United Kingdom. Not only do I hear various forms of the British accent all day, but I’m also treated to a wide variety of languages. It’s overwhelming to say the least.
From the time I sit down at 10 a.m. to the time I log off my computer and leave the impressive newsroom in the afternoon, I’m completely inundated with work – and I love it. My mornings include watching clips from the morning’s shows and writing short video descriptions and titles to then be posted online to accompany the videos.
Because I work at a financial news channel and because economics not exactly my forte, I’m either asking my co-workers for clarification or consulting the fascinating and extremely helpful site, Investopedia.com. But I’m learning quickly what “green shoots,” “quantitative easing” and other financial terms mean, and I’m asking for consultation less and less.
I also post stories on the CNBC Web site. Sometimes it’s an update on the price of oil or currency exchange, or sometimes it’s a story off a news wire like such as Reuters or the AP. I even occasionally get a chance to write my own stories based on interviews from the morning shows. Regardless of what the story is, it’s always a thrill to be posting stories on a Web site seen by millions of people. It’s gratifying and I feel like I’m really doing important work.
Before I know it, it’s time to pack up and head back to the comfort of the Sienna Building on Hatton Garden, change out of my work clothes and curl up on the couch to watch Friends and Scrubs. All evening in the back of my head, I’m dreading having to get up early again the next morning, but then I realize it will be worth it, because it means I get to go back to the magic of the CNBC newsroom.
I climb down the ladder from the top bunk and search for a spot on the floor to land that isn’t covered in clothes or books. I jump down, hitting the floor at an awkward angle and stumble to the kitchen. I take a swig of orange juice straight from the jug and grab my laptop. I check my e-mail and Facebook. Finally, the fog of sleep starts to fade and the rest of my morning routine is a breeze. Shower, dress, eat soggy cereal, brush my teeth, and head out the door at about 9:40.
CNBC, conveniently enough, is a short 15-minute walk from our flat on Hatton Garden. After cautiously making my way through Holborn Circus, I walk down to the imposing black steel structure not far from the infamous Fleet Street. I walk into the grand lobby, show my “Temp Staff” ID badge, and am granted access to the bank of five elevators, or should I say “lifts.”
Before I know it, the lift doors open, and a large blue sign with the NBC logo and the letters “CNBC” underneath greets me. I still find it hard to believe that I belong here. I scan my ID badge at the large glass doors, and I walk into the office. I turn to my left and I’m immediately walking by the studio, usually bustling with activity, as everyone is getting ready to begin the program “Worldwide Exchange.”
I take another right, and I quickly find my desk. Not 30 feet from the studio, I’m right in the heart of the CNBC newsroom. Surrounding me are people from Italy, South Africa, the United States, Italy and, of course, the United Kingdom. Not only do I hear various forms of the British accent all day, but I’m also treated to a wide variety of languages. It’s overwhelming to say the least.
From the time I sit down at 10 a.m. to the time I log off my computer and leave the impressive newsroom in the afternoon, I’m completely inundated with work – and I love it. My mornings include watching clips from the morning’s shows and writing short video descriptions and titles to then be posted online to accompany the videos.
Because I work at a financial news channel and because economics not exactly my forte, I’m either asking my co-workers for clarification or consulting the fascinating and extremely helpful site, Investopedia.com. But I’m learning quickly what “green shoots,” “quantitative easing” and other financial terms mean, and I’m asking for consultation less and less.
I also post stories on the CNBC Web site. Sometimes it’s an update on the price of oil or currency exchange, or sometimes it’s a story off a news wire like such as Reuters or the AP. I even occasionally get a chance to write my own stories based on interviews from the morning shows. Regardless of what the story is, it’s always a thrill to be posting stories on a Web site seen by millions of people. It’s gratifying and I feel like I’m really doing important work.
Before I know it, it’s time to pack up and head back to the comfort of the Sienna Building on Hatton Garden, change out of my work clothes and curl up on the couch to watch Friends and Scrubs. All evening in the back of my head, I’m dreading having to get up early again the next morning, but then I realize it will be worth it, because it means I get to go back to the magic of the CNBC newsroom.
Facing ‘toilet terrors’
By Courtney MillerMay 31, 2009
I never seem to do things the way I should. If the path is straight, I turn left and find myself lost in a maze, struggling for a way out. I make things difficult. Some people say it expresses creativity. Others say it is just plain stupidity. I know better and understand that I am just an unconventional, complicated female, who excels at making a mess of things.
In calculus, I missed answers because I took too many steps, not because I used the wrong formula. This spring, I was the last one to receive my visa because I sent in everything but my passport – the vital ingredient. In my defense, I couldn’t send it in until after I went to Dubai for a student conference. Nevertheless, I put our trip coordinators, Jessica Gall and David Boeyink, through heaps of unnecessary stress.
Sorry.
I don’t know why I thought it would be different in London. I suppose I wanted to give myself a makeover and get rid of all my bad qualities since I am in a new city. I wanted to be someone different – an improved version of myself. I imagined myself calm, cool and collected, walking the busy streets of London with all the posh Brits. Much to my dismay, it wasn’t long before the polish was stripped away and the real me surfaced.
It was my first day of work at Unreported World. I had just met with my boss the day before to prepare for my internship. He told me to work hard, to be tough and to fend off potential enemies. “You will either sink or swim,” he said, “so good luck.” Great. What I thought would be my dream job was quickly dissipating into something horrifying.
That first Tuesday, I spent my hour commute to Oxford mentally preparing myself to be the strong, intelligent woman that I’ve always tried to be. I had to make a good first impression. In my concentration, I noticed the clouds beginning to form grey masses outside my window, swallowing the sun completely. Oh no. I forgot the essential thing everyone told me to always have. I forgot my umbrella. This would go down in the books as my first major mistake.
Luckily, I wore my multicolored scarf from South Africa to work that day, thinking it would add some spice to my outfit and make it look nicer. Instead, it protected my hair from being hopelessly ruined for the rest of the day. I must have looked ridiculous with it wrapped around my head, but sometimes you have to ignore your ego.
I saved myself enough time to find my way through Oxford, which turned out to be a sort of labyrinth. I was zigzagging down quaint streets past shops, old churches, the Oxford Castle and the Oxford Museum. It may have been grimy and rainy that day, but one thing was clear, this commute is totally going to be worth it.
I went into work and was pleasantly surprised to find a small group of extremely genial people who welcomed me and showed me their ways. I was off to a great start until I had to go to the restroom from drinking too much tea. As I was washing my hands, I was thinking this was going to be much easier than I thought. I just needed to get comfortable.
I went to go back to work, but something wasn’t right. The door wouldn’t open. I locked it. I know I locked it, so why couldn’t I unlock it? I was in a panic. I tried a number of different tactics – pulling the door closer, lifting the handle, twisting the lock in both directions – but they all failed. After spending several minutes fumbling with the lock, I surrendered in defeat and pulled out my new pay-as-you-go mobile. My new boss was the only entry I had that could help me. My ego was screaming at me in embarrassment.
He managed to get me out, but not without making fun of me. Apparently, no one has ever been capable of breaking the lock. They put a sign up on the door for the next couple of days saying that the lock was broken, reminding me that I will never escape the image of the girl who makes a mess of everything. Now, there is a new lock on the bathroom door, and I have to be extra careful whenever I go to the bathroom. I am in constant fear of reliving the toilet terrors.
Sorry.
I don’t know why I thought it would be different in London. I suppose I wanted to give myself a makeover and get rid of all my bad qualities since I am in a new city. I wanted to be someone different – an improved version of myself. I imagined myself calm, cool and collected, walking the busy streets of London with all the posh Brits. Much to my dismay, it wasn’t long before the polish was stripped away and the real me surfaced.
It was my first day of work at Unreported World. I had just met with my boss the day before to prepare for my internship. He told me to work hard, to be tough and to fend off potential enemies. “You will either sink or swim,” he said, “so good luck.” Great. What I thought would be my dream job was quickly dissipating into something horrifying.
That first Tuesday, I spent my hour commute to Oxford mentally preparing myself to be the strong, intelligent woman that I’ve always tried to be. I had to make a good first impression. In my concentration, I noticed the clouds beginning to form grey masses outside my window, swallowing the sun completely. Oh no. I forgot the essential thing everyone told me to always have. I forgot my umbrella. This would go down in the books as my first major mistake.
Luckily, I wore my multicolored scarf from South Africa to work that day, thinking it would add some spice to my outfit and make it look nicer. Instead, it protected my hair from being hopelessly ruined for the rest of the day. I must have looked ridiculous with it wrapped around my head, but sometimes you have to ignore your ego.
I saved myself enough time to find my way through Oxford, which turned out to be a sort of labyrinth. I was zigzagging down quaint streets past shops, old churches, the Oxford Castle and the Oxford Museum. It may have been grimy and rainy that day, but one thing was clear, this commute is totally going to be worth it.
I went into work and was pleasantly surprised to find a small group of extremely genial people who welcomed me and showed me their ways. I was off to a great start until I had to go to the restroom from drinking too much tea. As I was washing my hands, I was thinking this was going to be much easier than I thought. I just needed to get comfortable.
I went to go back to work, but something wasn’t right. The door wouldn’t open. I locked it. I know I locked it, so why couldn’t I unlock it? I was in a panic. I tried a number of different tactics – pulling the door closer, lifting the handle, twisting the lock in both directions – but they all failed. After spending several minutes fumbling with the lock, I surrendered in defeat and pulled out my new pay-as-you-go mobile. My new boss was the only entry I had that could help me. My ego was screaming at me in embarrassment.
He managed to get me out, but not without making fun of me. Apparently, no one has ever been capable of breaking the lock. They put a sign up on the door for the next couple of days saying that the lock was broken, reminding me that I will never escape the image of the girl who makes a mess of everything. Now, there is a new lock on the bathroom door, and I have to be extra careful whenever I go to the bathroom. I am in constant fear of reliving the toilet terrors.
 |
| Photo by Alex Farris |
| Sarah Brubeck (left) and Zina Kumok run through the fountains at Somerset House. Kumok thought she wouldn’t enjoy newswriting, but now she’s had a change of heart. |
Making the sports-to-news adjustment
By Zina KumokMay 27, 2009
In 10th grade, I decided I wanted to be a sports writer. Since I was 16, I’ve concentrated on sports writing, working for the IDS and learning more during a sports internship in my hometown of Memphis.
So when professor Dave Boeyink told me there would be no sports internships for me this summer in London, I was disappointed.
“I have to cover news?” I thought to myself. “But that’s boring.”
It took me a while to get used to the idea that I wouldn’t be covering Wimbledon this summer. I had my heart set on scoring credentials to Centre Court. I knew it would’ve been tough to intern doing sports, since I know virtually nothing about cricket or rugby teams and my knowledge of the Premier League is passable for an American. But still, I thought, news writing just isn’t my cup of tea.
I ended up with an internship at Newzeye, a company that produces several newsletters about environmental causes. Environmental sustainability is a topic I knew little about before starting work, and I had to quickly learn about the different issues scientists, contractors and concerned citizens care about.
Newzeye’s two main newsletters discuss private and public corporations, national and international news, and several features. The topics range sustainable restaurants to wind turbines in Scotland.
Most of my job involves reading press releases and decided which ones could be interesting news stories for either newsletter. I’ve done a little copy editing and might even design a page or two.
Even though I was intitally bummed I wouldn’t be writing for the English equivalent of Sports Illustrated, I’ve come to see how fortunate I am. I’m getting a chance to write and edit and learn more about a topic I originally knew nothing about. (Now I know a little more than absolutely nothing.)
Despite the seemingly obvious differences between sports and sustainability, the principles of journalism are the same. After I find a story I want to do, I research and write out questions. I usually call up the PR people or the company spokespeople for more information. After that, I compile all my information from press releases, Web sites and interviews into a coherent article.
While I always will love sports writing, I appreciate the challenges I have been given this summer. Navigating the Tube came pretty easily to me, but figuring out the differences between British and American journalism was another story.
As I learn more and more about the environment, I’m constantly reminded of how much I don’t know about so many other topics. It’s a little refreshing learning something new every day instead of discussing Tom Crean’s latest Tweets.
It took me a while to get used to the idea that I wouldn’t be covering Wimbledon this summer. I had my heart set on scoring credentials to Centre Court. I knew it would’ve been tough to intern doing sports, since I know virtually nothing about cricket or rugby teams and my knowledge of the Premier League is passable for an American. But still, I thought, news writing just isn’t my cup of tea.
I ended up with an internship at Newzeye, a company that produces several newsletters about environmental causes. Environmental sustainability is a topic I knew little about before starting work, and I had to quickly learn about the different issues scientists, contractors and concerned citizens care about.
Newzeye’s two main newsletters discuss private and public corporations, national and international news, and several features. The topics range sustainable restaurants to wind turbines in Scotland.
Most of my job involves reading press releases and decided which ones could be interesting news stories for either newsletter. I’ve done a little copy editing and might even design a page or two.
Even though I was intitally bummed I wouldn’t be writing for the English equivalent of Sports Illustrated, I’ve come to see how fortunate I am. I’m getting a chance to write and edit and learn more about a topic I originally knew nothing about. (Now I know a little more than absolutely nothing.)
Despite the seemingly obvious differences between sports and sustainability, the principles of journalism are the same. After I find a story I want to do, I research and write out questions. I usually call up the PR people or the company spokespeople for more information. After that, I compile all my information from press releases, Web sites and interviews into a coherent article.
While I always will love sports writing, I appreciate the challenges I have been given this summer. Navigating the Tube came pretty easily to me, but figuring out the differences between British and American journalism was another story.
As I learn more and more about the environment, I’m constantly reminded of how much I don’t know about so many other topics. It’s a little refreshing learning something new every day instead of discussing Tom Crean’s latest Tweets.
Weighing citizen media and mainstream
By Elvia MalagonMay 24, 2009
With rapid communication, the world appears to be getting smaller. Demotix is one of the citizen journalism Web sites helping the world shrink.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Elvia Malagon is working at Demotix this summer. The online magazine features citizen journalists’ work. |
While it is no secret that the mainstream media has only a select few gatekeepers, even after working for two weeks at a citizen journalism Web site, I’m not sure how I feel about the idea of citizen journalism. Working at Demotix has opened up my eyes to countries I never took the time to read about, but I still worry about the contributors. How Photoshopped are these photos? Did they pay someone to take these photos? The main thing that I worry about is that not all contributors are informed enough on the ethics and law aspects of journalism that professional journalists have learned and live by.
Of course, not everyone can have his or her work automatically published on Demotix. A member of the editorial team always looks at the photos and information that goes along with each story before posting it. At times, there are photos that come through that just aren’t news that we rejected. Other times, we have questions about the news itself and also reject those until they are updated. Still, the editors can’t be there with the photographers when they take the photos.
Since starting my internship, I have been looking at different citizen journalism Web sites. Many of them have terms and guidelines for their contributors. Others even have workshops for their contributors to help guide them.
Another aspect of Demotix includes the business aspect, such as considering if photos are sold to various companies to be published in various media outlets. Depending on how much money the photos are sold for, the photographer gets a share of it.
With the growing number of lay offs in the newspaper industry, a citizen journalism Web site could be the new home for many journalists. However, this still creates a problem because no one wants to work free and thus a business model has to be created that would keep these journalists working while still staying true the ideology behind citizen journalism.
Demotix and many other citizen journalism Web sites are struggling with this. Many contributors come from places where they are risking their lives to take these photos and a little money would certainly help. The problems with citizen journalism won’t be fixed until a perfect news model is created. Until then, Demotix and other citizen journalism Web sites will continue to fulfill one of the most important aspects of journalism: giving a voice to the unheard.
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| Courtesy photo |
| CJ Lotz ponders the future of journalism — and her own career — while working at Mute magazine this summer. |
Rising to the task of saving the news
By CJ LotzMay 23, 2009
Summer for journalism students is that gasp of oxygen between the deadlines, the papers and the projects of the school year. We breathe, then scramble for internships to busy ourselves away from the question that looms despite the sunshine: Can I really make journalism my career?
It took an internship over an ocean for me to realize that we – young, Internet-fluent and creative student forces – not only can make journalism our careers, but are the ones who must breathe renewed life into this so-called deflated profession.
I work at Mute Magazine in London, a quarterly publication that comments on social, political and media-related ideas. The publication is sometimes wacky, usually editorialized and always insightful. Mute lets readers post their own stories, commentary and events online, and is trying to assert a Web presence between issues. As editor of Inside magazine at IU next year, I’m learning how magazines can solidify their presence when they aren’t in print.
In the office, the editors ask my opinion on stories both for print and the Web. They’ve included me as an administrator on Mute’s Facebook group, and I now tweet on Mute’s Twitter about released stories. I update the Web by checking for spam and uploading new stories, events and pictures.
I took the push for Web-only stories as my opportunity to write. One of my tasks — sorting through the piles of press releases and flyers for upcoming theatrical, musical and arts events — means a stream of story ideas. I tell my editor about the interesting finds, and sometimes she’ll assign them to a staff writer or think of an expert who could offer commentary.
Through this, I’ve found my own stories to cover. One day, I strolled up the famous curry shop-lined Brick Lane to an exhibit of Sound Postcards. The postcards were engraved as one-track records and sent between teenagers under Communist control in East Europe. I wrote the piece as a commentary of our shifting media and music consumption.
I reviewed and took pictures at a Polish hip-hop concert, wrote commentary on an article about Haiti and wrote a short piece on the changing immigration policy for students in the UK.
The ability to jump so easily around the Web has been an asset in my newsroom. I’m always looking up contact details, story ideas and events. I’m also constantly updating the Web site and figuring out how social networking sites can improve readership.
The media isn’t going anywhere. Whether a glossy magazine or an online forum, we consume it like coffee. It’s an addiction and we’re forever trying to find the right producers, the most satisfying blend. But that’s not the main reason students will be successful in the evolving media world. It’s because we’re learning the skills we need to change all the rules.
I work at Mute Magazine in London, a quarterly publication that comments on social, political and media-related ideas. The publication is sometimes wacky, usually editorialized and always insightful. Mute lets readers post their own stories, commentary and events online, and is trying to assert a Web presence between issues. As editor of Inside magazine at IU next year, I’m learning how magazines can solidify their presence when they aren’t in print.
In the office, the editors ask my opinion on stories both for print and the Web. They’ve included me as an administrator on Mute’s Facebook group, and I now tweet on Mute’s Twitter about released stories. I update the Web by checking for spam and uploading new stories, events and pictures.
I took the push for Web-only stories as my opportunity to write. One of my tasks — sorting through the piles of press releases and flyers for upcoming theatrical, musical and arts events — means a stream of story ideas. I tell my editor about the interesting finds, and sometimes she’ll assign them to a staff writer or think of an expert who could offer commentary.
Through this, I’ve found my own stories to cover. One day, I strolled up the famous curry shop-lined Brick Lane to an exhibit of Sound Postcards. The postcards were engraved as one-track records and sent between teenagers under Communist control in East Europe. I wrote the piece as a commentary of our shifting media and music consumption.
I reviewed and took pictures at a Polish hip-hop concert, wrote commentary on an article about Haiti and wrote a short piece on the changing immigration policy for students in the UK.
The ability to jump so easily around the Web has been an asset in my newsroom. I’m always looking up contact details, story ideas and events. I’m also constantly updating the Web site and figuring out how social networking sites can improve readership.
The media isn’t going anywhere. Whether a glossy magazine or an online forum, we consume it like coffee. It’s an addiction and we’re forever trying to find the right producers, the most satisfying blend. But that’s not the main reason students will be successful in the evolving media world. It’s because we’re learning the skills we need to change all the rules.
‘The intern’ makes a name for herself
By Katherine Hagan
May 17, 2009
Let me introduce myself. My name is Katherine. I am a classical music nerd, and I am working with the New London Orchestra (NLO) until June 26.
The NLO managerial staff consists of four staffers, now five including me. I see Julian, Vicky, Vanessa and Rob every day I work (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays), and each of them could essentially be called my boss since I am the low woman on the totem pole, so to speak.
On my first day, I easily found the hole-in-the-wall labeled “4 Lower Belgrave,” the offices of NLO and a few others. I rang the bell and my supervisor, Vicky, buzzed me in. I walk up three flights of stairs, all the while peeking in doors to see if I had reached the right office, and found Vicky standing at the landing. She hurriedly explained that she, Rob and Julian were finishing up a quick meeting about the concert Thursday.
It turns out my first week working with the orchestra would start full-force, no training, no easing into it. In fact, I spent the first day writing a list of public relations-related tasks I wanted to complete, including writing press releases, creating a new list of press contacts, and promoting and working all of the concerts through the end of June.
The concert to which Vicky was referring on my first day would actually be my first behind-the-scenes effort at a classical concert. My experience has extended only to being on the stage playing cello or listening in the audience. In two days, I was in the thick of it.
During the NLO’s “Carnival of the Animals” concert May 14, I took on the menial responsibilities of an “intern,” as my nametag indicated – no name, just “Intern.”
A side story from my concert experience: I cannot count the number of laughs had at my expense over a silly nametag, including one from a man at the reception following the concert who stopped in the middle of his conversation with Rob, Vanessa and me more than once to chortle about my label. He insisted I tell him my name over and over and over.
I started the day of the concert at the office, working on my public relations tasks, but Vanessa and I soon departed to join Julian and Vicky at the Stratford Circus, a venue out east that boasts an intimate performance hall, a small restaurant and bar area upstairs.
At first I followed Vicky and Vanessa in and explored the stage, backstage and green room areas. Once I became acquainted with the venue, I found Vicky. She and Vanessa had taken on so many responsibilities, yet I stood with nothing to do. I assumed (you know what they say) that she would assign me tasks. After all, I was there to learn. I waited. She didn’t. So I decided to take some initiative.
I started by asking Vicky for tasks. I stuffed envelopes with complementary concert tickets. I topped off the vat of hot water for making tea in the green room. I put surveys and pencils on seats in the theatre. After a while, I just stuck with Vicky and took some weight off of her shoulders. By the end, I was setting up and manning the NLO promotional table and making an appearance in the concert, taking an extra stand off stage before the interval (intermission).
The best part about being part of the event? The music. I got to listen to the music from backstage and to talk with the performers. Some younger players are still in university; some had been with the orchestra for years. I even met and spoke with the special guest actor Murray Melvin, who narrated the piece by Saint-Saens called “Carnival of the Animals.”
By the end of the day, I had been on my feet for 13 hours, and I didn’t even notice my feet aching and my knees whining until I was a few blocks from home. For spending my day doing entirely menial tasks, I have to say the newness of the experience was enough to keep me smiling. And that’s the point of this blog, I guess.
No matter how lowly your tasks as an intern, find things to enjoy and to be excited about. I was lucky enough to be placed working with people who share my passion for classical music, and I’m not taking any moment for granted.
It turns out my first week working with the orchestra would start full-force, no training, no easing into it. In fact, I spent the first day writing a list of public relations-related tasks I wanted to complete, including writing press releases, creating a new list of press contacts, and promoting and working all of the concerts through the end of June.
The concert to which Vicky was referring on my first day would actually be my first behind-the-scenes effort at a classical concert. My experience has extended only to being on the stage playing cello or listening in the audience. In two days, I was in the thick of it.
During the NLO’s “Carnival of the Animals” concert May 14, I took on the menial responsibilities of an “intern,” as my nametag indicated – no name, just “Intern.”
A side story from my concert experience: I cannot count the number of laughs had at my expense over a silly nametag, including one from a man at the reception following the concert who stopped in the middle of his conversation with Rob, Vanessa and me more than once to chortle about my label. He insisted I tell him my name over and over and over.
I started the day of the concert at the office, working on my public relations tasks, but Vanessa and I soon departed to join Julian and Vicky at the Stratford Circus, a venue out east that boasts an intimate performance hall, a small restaurant and bar area upstairs.
At first I followed Vicky and Vanessa in and explored the stage, backstage and green room areas. Once I became acquainted with the venue, I found Vicky. She and Vanessa had taken on so many responsibilities, yet I stood with nothing to do. I assumed (you know what they say) that she would assign me tasks. After all, I was there to learn. I waited. She didn’t. So I decided to take some initiative.
I started by asking Vicky for tasks. I stuffed envelopes with complementary concert tickets. I topped off the vat of hot water for making tea in the green room. I put surveys and pencils on seats in the theatre. After a while, I just stuck with Vicky and took some weight off of her shoulders. By the end, I was setting up and manning the NLO promotional table and making an appearance in the concert, taking an extra stand off stage before the interval (intermission).
The best part about being part of the event? The music. I got to listen to the music from backstage and to talk with the performers. Some younger players are still in university; some had been with the orchestra for years. I even met and spoke with the special guest actor Murray Melvin, who narrated the piece by Saint-Saens called “Carnival of the Animals.”
By the end of the day, I had been on my feet for 13 hours, and I didn’t even notice my feet aching and my knees whining until I was a few blocks from home. For spending my day doing entirely menial tasks, I have to say the newness of the experience was enough to keep me smiling. And that’s the point of this blog, I guess.
No matter how lowly your tasks as an intern, find things to enjoy and to be excited about. I was lucky enough to be placed working with people who share my passion for classical music, and I’m not taking any moment for granted.
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| Courtesy photo |
| Intern Jessica Haney is working at Morris Visitor Publications. She’s surprised that only six editorial staffers produce several guides aimed at different audiences. |
Learning about freelancing
By Jessica Haney
May 16, 2009
Getting used to life and work in the foreign city of London is tough to do in just one week. Luckily, my coworkers at Morris Visitor Publications are making it easier for me.
Morris Visitor Publications puts out several travel/tourism magazines about London and beyond: London Planner, Britain Planner, Where London, Where London (Russian), In London, and In London (Arabic). Each targets a different market and audience at various points during travel journeys. For example, London Planner is intended to serve an audience before people actually visit, which is why it is sent to other countries, including the U.S. Where London, on the other hand, is available in hotels and covers more detail.
But to my surprise, there only six people share our editorial room. The magazines are free to the public and rely on ads for revenue, so the advertising department is obviously larger. How can so few staff members generate editorial content for all these magazines? Like modern journalists, they work extremely hard and must be a jacks-of-all-trades. Each editorial staff member is an editor of one magazine, but he or she also has an area of expertise, such as shopping, clubbing or dining, and each assists others in that aspect of each magazine.
Now, these are tourism magazines, so a lot of the content is listings of restaurants, stores, theatre performances and other events. This information doesn’t change every month, but the features sure do.
So what about freelance? You’d think a city like London would be home to many qualified freelancers. And they have more knowledge about the city than I, most likely. Flipping through the Writer’s Handbook, it’s easy to see that a lot of magazines rely heavily on freelance contributions. Here at MVP, not much freelance is published, but it isn’t discouraged. As my coworkers have explained, you just have to know how to do it right.
I learned a thing or two in my J342 Magazine Reporting class. But the advice my coworkers offered is a helpful supplement. After all, we had better get used to freelancing with this job market. Here are some of their words of wisdom:
- No pitch should be longer than three lines. These editors are busy and don’t have time to read a query of several paragraphs. Short and to the point is key.
- Focus your idea and tailor it to the magazine. Show that you understand their audience. My co-worker is offended when a freelancer has obviously sent a blanket e-mail pitch.
- If you don’t get a response in a couple days, follow up. Desks are messy places and ideas easily are forgotten. Call two days later and make sure your pitch was considered.
- If you do speak with an editor, keep it light, chatty and confident. The better you sell it, the more likely it is to be published.
- If your piece isn’t accepted, don’t take it personally. Feel free to try again in a few weeks, but be polite. Never be bothersome.
Following these steps will help you establish a good rapport in the freelancing world.
For now, I’m focusing on writing the clips I’ve been assigned. Lucky for me, my job asks that I become an expert on London, and my coworkers insist that I experience it.
I think I’ll go have another tea.
Going to the ‘dark side’
By Alex FarrisMay 15, 2009
For my entire communications career (if you can call it that, given how young I am), I’ve been on the side that reports the news. Whether through words or photos, I’ve been training for the media in the literal sense of the term, meaning that I’ve striven to be a responsible filter to help people decide what’s important enough to know about. Everyone in the world knows the problems of bias that go into such a position (which is why I said “responsible”), but that’s the job I’ve come to learn, know and love.
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| Photo by Alex Farris |
| Alex Farris is finding time to shoot London scenes even as he adjusts to his public relations internship’s slightly different demands. This is the Thames at night. |
I’ve heard people say, jokingly and not, that PR is the “dark side.” PR agencies have agendas, they say. Whereas journalists report what the public needs to hear, press officers think only of the interests of their own companies. I used to think that way. I had also hoped that everyone would think this way because that would create the impression that the media should actively enforce a complete freedom from the "dangerous influences" of corporations’ agendas represented by their PR firms, that is, not listen to PR agents at all.
I laugh in the face of that opinion now, especially when it comes to science. Sure, I still believe that the media should be free to report as they wish, but:
- British media don’t often follow a standard of objectivity. They don’t often report to what the disparate and dissenting publics want and need to hear, but instead mainly to one certain public. This problem exists in American media, to be sure, but it’s not as blatant as in Britain, where a major national newspaper exists for each variation of persuasion (The Independent for the strongly left, The Guardian for center left, The Times for center, The Daily Telegraph for center right, and The Daily Mail for strongly right).
You could argue that such blatant bias is better than hiding a slant you know is there, but the point here is that British media are not totally objective and well-meaning, no matter how they dress themselves up. Thus, the claim that journalists report for the common good of all doesn’t hold much water.
- PR can provide a great public service: explanation. Especially with science, the public often doesn’t understand the inner workings of a business or an industry. The same goes with journalists: sometimes they don’t have the time or can’t get the knowledgeable sources themselves to explain something like science to the public. The SMC helps them out by holding press briefings of discoveries and the state of the science, as well as putting reporters in contact with scientists willing and able to talk clearly to the media. That way, the guy who writes the newspaper or Web site article easily can explain the finding or issue to the public, and the public’s understanding of science increases.
I love being able to do that, especially since people don’t understand the scientific process well enough. (Like the part about one study not proving anything because, with the flaws inherent in human knowledge and observation, no scientific idea can be “proven,” only supported. Why can’t people get that?)
Huh. Not only am I back into writing, I’m on the other side of the media. This’ll be fun — and not just because I’m taking the Piccadilly line to work.