12.15.2010
Michele Topor's North End Market Tours
The North End of Boston is the oldest Italian neighborhood in the nation. It's a quaint little section of town, with brick buildings and sidewalks, and pastry and coffee shops on every corner.
But the North End has much more to offer than what the average tourist comes to find. Michele Topor's North End market tours take tourists around the neighborhood, showing them the most authentic Italian cuisine. I had the pleasure of taking one of the tours just last week.
Jim Becker, my tour guide, has been working in the culinary industry for about 25 years. He began at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, and eventually opened his own Spanish restaurant which won two Best of Boston awards and two Wine Spectator awards. Becker was also the executive chef at Taranta Cucina Mediterranean, a restaurant in the North End for a year before starting his journey as a tour guide.
So, it's obvious that Becker is an expert in the food industry, and it became more obvious on the tour. Rather than a typical food tour where guests eat their way through a city, this was mainly educational, with a few tastings of course. At the first stop, Maria's pastry shop, Becker spoke about how Italians like their pastry, describing how most will have something sweet around 3 p.m. with their espresso. Staring at the wall of butter cookies in Maria's made my mouth water, never mind all the other pastry they have to offer.
After Maria's, we briefly stopped at Mercato Del Mare, a fish market, and then headed over to Polcari's Coffee. Polcari's is a small narrow store filled with every herb and spice imaginable. One of the shocking parts of stepping in here was the comparison between the Nutella (a hazelnut spread) sold in American grocery stores to the Nutella sold in Europe. The American version has 7 grams of trans fat, while the Italian version, which comes in a glass jar rather than plastic, has none. Becker also showed the us different spices like licorice root and compared the cinnamon stick we find in grocery stores to the cinnamon found in Italy, which is thicker and more bark like.
Alba Produce was the next market to visit. There is no sign advertising Alba's, which makes it a bit harder to find, but they feature a variety of produce that is unique to the Italian culture, like bulb fennel and chicory. Then, we went to Monica's Mercato which features many different treasures of Italy. This gem of a store, owned by a brother/cousin trio, has a variety of Italian cheese, including a special form of mozzarella they get imported from Italy. They also make their own pasta and bread and have a variety of ready made foods like antipasti and sandwiches. Yum!
Of course this wouldn't be a tour of the North End without some cheese and wine. At The Cheese Shop, Becker spoke about the many different olive oils they offer and discussed what true balsamic is, compared to the balsamic vinaigrette we Americans like to drench on salad, which he calls a "scam." Real balsamic, Becker said, takes years to make, and I can personally say after tasting some, it is ten times better. We also tasted homemade ricotta cheese and Pecorino cheese before heading over to V. Cirace & Son, INC. fine wine shop. Here, Becker spoke about the different wines this award winning store offers and how to pair certain wines with certain foods.
For those who want to try this wonder of a market tour, they can visit Michele's website to buy tickets.
10.20.2010
Those 18-22, start Tweeting now!
It is pretty clear now that Twitter is a social networking mecca. It gives businesses the opportunity to go viral and people the chance to connect via links, hashtags, and photos.
But for college students especially, being on Twitter is essential. Sure Facebook is great. We all connect with one another, sharing laughs over the drunken pictures, and checking up on what old high school friends are up to. However, our Facebook profile is not what is going to help us network with potential employers or allow us to make a name for ourselves. If anything, those raunchy pictures and status updates could hurt our chances of getting a job after graduation, and in this economy, who needs that?
Even if you are someone who doesn't want to tweet often, just being on Twitter and checking your homepage will link you (literally) to information you might not have otherwise heard about. I am tired of hearing students criticize Twitter as this Facebook wanna be website. For those who think that way, you couldn't be more wrong. Stop your whining and read this list of the top reasons why all college age students should be tweeting:
1. Follow newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and television networks to get all your top news for the day, updated constantly.
2. Follow your school on Twitter and get to know all the new happenings around campus
3. Follow experts in your field of study and stay up to date on news within your career path
4. Get links to internship opportunities and job postings
5. Have the chance to communicate with other experts and professors on Twitter outside of the classroom
And most important, be ahead of the competition!
9.09.2010
Sharpen those pencils...or should I say keyboards
There is nothing like the smell of freshly sharpened pencils to get you in the mood for a good class. This week kicked off a new semester of classes and boy was I ready to get writing again. As of right now, it looks like this is going to be a great semester because not only do I adore a couple of my journalism classes, but the professors aren't half bad either. Here are some first class quotes from my professors that make me excited to be a journalist, and should make you excited too:
"You will learn to appreciate journalism as a service profession, one upon which individuals, communities and the country at large depend."
"Pictures are the primary mode of story telling in the modern media."
"Do not show a source you are weak. If they don't want to conduct an interview with you, tell them you will wait."
"You are going to learn to think like a reporter and read like an editor."
I hope that was inspiring. Now onto more important things... A few weeks ago I came across a fascinating article on ReadWriteWeb about a cool new way to research info on the Internet. Apture, a startup web company, allows readers to highlight a single word on the screen and search the Internet for information about that particular word without leaving the page. Crazy right? No, more like AMAZING.
So what does this mean for students like us? Well, for starters, if you don't know the definition of a word, you can just look it up with the click of a button. But if you are a journalist on deadline, and need to do some quick research on your source before you go out for an interview, this is a great time saving technique. Technologies like this are changing online news content and will continue to influence how we write for the web. Apture is the new link.
Check out this video with one of the creators of Apture. He describes how with the help of some journalists his multimedia tool became a hit.
"You will learn to appreciate journalism as a service profession, one upon which individuals, communities and the country at large depend."
"Pictures are the primary mode of story telling in the modern media."
"Do not show a source you are weak. If they don't want to conduct an interview with you, tell them you will wait."
"You are going to learn to think like a reporter and read like an editor."
I hope that was inspiring. Now onto more important things... A few weeks ago I came across a fascinating article on ReadWriteWeb about a cool new way to research info on the Internet. Apture, a startup web company, allows readers to highlight a single word on the screen and search the Internet for information about that particular word without leaving the page. Crazy right? No, more like AMAZING.
So what does this mean for students like us? Well, for starters, if you don't know the definition of a word, you can just look it up with the click of a button. But if you are a journalist on deadline, and need to do some quick research on your source before you go out for an interview, this is a great time saving technique. Technologies like this are changing online news content and will continue to influence how we write for the web. Apture is the new link.
Check out this video with one of the creators of Apture. He describes how with the help of some journalists his multimedia tool became a hit.
8.03.2010
Time goes by too fast
August really has a way of creeping up on you. I can't believe that I have less than 30 days before school starts back up again.
Anyways, with more than half the year over, it is time to reflect on those little New Year's resolutions I made. In a post titled "Some Goals," (original, I know), I wrote that I wanted to have a podcast posted on this blog, learn some HTML code, post pictures, learn more about video documentaries, share thoughts about new media, and get some followers.
Well, three of the six have been accomplished, so I guess I better get moving on learning the whole HTML thing and discover a bit more about video documentaries.
So, naturally, I googled "video documentary" and went straight to the infamously helpful eHow.com . Doesn't get much better than that (well, it does, but you have to start somewhere right?)
Anyways, with more than half the year over, it is time to reflect on those little New Year's resolutions I made. In a post titled "Some Goals," (original, I know), I wrote that I wanted to have a podcast posted on this blog, learn some HTML code, post pictures, learn more about video documentaries, share thoughts about new media, and get some followers.
Well, three of the six have been accomplished, so I guess I better get moving on learning the whole HTML thing and discover a bit more about video documentaries.
So, naturally, I googled "video documentary" and went straight to the infamously helpful eHow.com . Doesn't get much better than that (well, it does, but you have to start somewhere right?)
7.19.2010
This fall I will be starting fresh at a new school, and therefore starting fresh writing for a different college newspaper. While I will still be pursuing a degree in journalism, writing for a college press is not strictly limited to those looking for a career in communication.
Michael Koretzky, adviser to the Florida Atlantic University Press, says "No other extra-curricular activity on campus is better for your career-- no matter what it is-- than the newspaper."
I couldn't have said it better myself. Writing for the student newspaper is no easy task. Every week the staff has to come up with new content that will catch the attention of the student body. Sure, the Student Government Organization may have organized a great concert, but it took them a year to do so. And maybe GSA had a successful fundraiser, but it took months to get it off the ground. The newspaper staff gets a finished product out on the news stand within a week.
Harsh deadlines teach you to stop procrastinating and put you in a pressure situation where you may have to think on your feet to get a story done on time. You gain managing and multi-tasking skills that you may not have learned you were otherwise capable of. And, let's face it, what student doesn't need to brush up on their grammar and writing skills?
As a staff writer for any university press, you gain people skills that you will use throughout your career, no matter what path that may be. I am eager and ready to join a new staff in the fall and can't wait to start seeing my name in print again.
Michael Koretzky, adviser to the Florida Atlantic University Press, says "No other extra-curricular activity on campus is better for your career-- no matter what it is-- than the newspaper."
I couldn't have said it better myself. Writing for the student newspaper is no easy task. Every week the staff has to come up with new content that will catch the attention of the student body. Sure, the Student Government Organization may have organized a great concert, but it took them a year to do so. And maybe GSA had a successful fundraiser, but it took months to get it off the ground. The newspaper staff gets a finished product out on the news stand within a week.
Harsh deadlines teach you to stop procrastinating and put you in a pressure situation where you may have to think on your feet to get a story done on time. You gain managing and multi-tasking skills that you may not have learned you were otherwise capable of. And, let's face it, what student doesn't need to brush up on their grammar and writing skills?
As a staff writer for any university press, you gain people skills that you will use throughout your career, no matter what path that may be. I am eager and ready to join a new staff in the fall and can't wait to start seeing my name in print again.
7.12.2010
6.29.2010
Nothing is off the record
When do journalists agree to allow a source to be "off the record?" The answer should be never. It seems that sometimes we are afraid to tell a source that everything they said is fair game to be printed. Sometimes our ethics are brought into question and giving a highly recognized source a bad reputation can really impact a journalists career.
Case in-point, Michael Hastings of Rolling Stone Magazine. Rather than receiving praise from his colleagues, Hastings is getting some backlash for not understanding the "unspoken agreement" that you will not embarrass the troops. Lara Logan, CBS News Chief Foreign Correspondent, criticized Hastings, ultimately saying she doesn't believe the story, and to her, "something doesn't add up."
We are taught everything is on the record, unless the reporter agrees otherwise. Journalists shouldn't be afraid to take some risks, our job is to write great stories and share great news with the public. If some risks weren't taken to do so, then we wouldn't have a job.
I think Steve Buttry sums up the matter beautifully, saying, "Our nation's founders did not protect the press so the press could protect the government."
6.28.2010
6.08.2010
"Don't take no for an answer"
With plenty of time to read books that I actually enjoy this summer, I have been enjoying one book titled God Never Blinks: 50 Lessons for Life's Little Detours by Regina Brett. Brett is a columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer and in her book she writes the 50 lessons life has taught her.
One lesson that is probably relevant to most journalists is Lesson 20: when it comes to going after what you want in life, don't take no for an answer. Brett describes the struggles she faced when looking for a steady job after graduation. After a professor told her that she wasn't ready for the world of journalism, Brett didn't take no for an answer. She began writing for a paper with a beat she didn't want to cover, yet took every story she could get and finished it.
Many more no's came to Brett, and she fought through each one, until she eventually got her own column. At the end of this chapter Brett writes, "I have a dream job. All because I wouldn't take no for an answer and kept shoveling."
Every college student is working through school to get to their dream job. However, as Brett demonstrates, a dream job isn't just going to be handed to us. Now more than ever journalists have to create a name for themselves, going above and beyond in order to beat the competition (get it, "beat"? ok, bad joke). We know we want to be writers, that part is accomplished, but becoming a great writer with great content comes with the perseverance to prove those who tell you "no" wrong.
Just a note, Lesson 20 goes hand in hand with Lesson 1: life isn't fair, but it's still good.
6.01.2010
Fact Check Please
I spent a part of my Memorial Day weekend at my dad's house bbq-ing it up. Of course the evening could not end without my dad and stepmom coming up with some insanely right sided thing to say about President Obama. Screaming at the top of thei lungs, (yes, SCREAMING) they both start in on how Obama is "the first president to not attend the Memorial Day ceremonies at Arlington!" Continuing on their rampage, they said "he was on vacation with his family! I don't care who you are as president, but you show respect and go to tomb of the unknown on Memorial Day."
Well, one conservative source mentions this is because Obama doesn't like the military, another also criticizes the president's vacation. Neither mention that the presidents weekend started with a trip to the Gulf Coast. And, it isn't as if he blew off Memorial Day all together, he went to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill. As left columnist David Corn writes, Obama is not the only president to not go to Arlington on Memorial Day. A few other presidents have missed out as well.
A professor told my class once to only believe half of what you watch, read, and hear, especially when it comes to politics. Before we get upset about a certain topic, it is important to investigate on your own before drawing conclusions.
Well, one conservative source mentions this is because Obama doesn't like the military, another also criticizes the president's vacation. Neither mention that the presidents weekend started with a trip to the Gulf Coast. And, it isn't as if he blew off Memorial Day all together, he went to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill. As left columnist David Corn writes, Obama is not the only president to not go to Arlington on Memorial Day. A few other presidents have missed out as well.
A professor told my class once to only believe half of what you watch, read, and hear, especially when it comes to politics. Before we get upset about a certain topic, it is important to investigate on your own before drawing conclusions.
5.24.2010
Oh summer, the things you do to me
Summer has gotten the best of me already. I went all last week without posting a single thing on this blog. Oops. But sometimes I think we need a little break from the world of social media to just let ourselves be.
Anyways, I'm back now. As I was catching up on my twitter feed and reading some other blogs I follow, I came across two posts that really caught my attention. The first reminded me of a post I did a while back. I was sitting in the cafe on campus right in front of a giant stack of newspapers and hardly anyone was picking on up. While I can't say that all students don't read the news because of this one moment I witnessed, one Harvard survey, mentioned in Tony Rogers Journalism Guide, found that only one in 20 teens and one in 12 young adults read a newspaper on a daily basis.
Are young people actually following the news online? There are so many different, new, exciting ways of delivering content, but are those methods sufficient? While teens today may not read the news because they can't relate to it, they should still have an interest. New technologies have given the public easier access to news but teens still ignore it.
Something young people are more aware of is social media. "Networked," a blog about digital journalism from SPJ, listed the Top 10 Social Media Best Practices. Definitely gave some handy tips, mainly warning not to just jump into a site without a plan in mind of what exactly you want to accomplish there.
It's amazing to see how many interesting articles I missed in just one week of not reading my newsfeed.
Anyways, I'm back now. As I was catching up on my twitter feed and reading some other blogs I follow, I came across two posts that really caught my attention. The first reminded me of a post I did a while back. I was sitting in the cafe on campus right in front of a giant stack of newspapers and hardly anyone was picking on up. While I can't say that all students don't read the news because of this one moment I witnessed, one Harvard survey, mentioned in Tony Rogers Journalism Guide, found that only one in 20 teens and one in 12 young adults read a newspaper on a daily basis.
Are young people actually following the news online? There are so many different, new, exciting ways of delivering content, but are those methods sufficient? While teens today may not read the news because they can't relate to it, they should still have an interest. New technologies have given the public easier access to news but teens still ignore it.
Something young people are more aware of is social media. "Networked," a blog about digital journalism from SPJ, listed the Top 10 Social Media Best Practices. Definitely gave some handy tips, mainly warning not to just jump into a site without a plan in mind of what exactly you want to accomplish there.
It's amazing to see how many interesting articles I missed in just one week of not reading my newsfeed.
5.13.2010
Holy Twitter!
Well I can say I have mastered the # and @. Every Wednesday night, there is a chat on Twitter about web journalism (#wjchat). People of all different experience levels participate and answer questions that are posted every five minutes or so. One of the questions I answered was "how do you make your idea have multi-platform potential? Are you thinking outside of HTML? Mobile apps, geolocation, etc."
So, I thought, hmmm multimedia, my new found love of audio plays a role here. I tweeted that everyone brings the video camera with them, what about a high quality recorder? And, who would have thought, someone tweeted at me! Ha! I couldn't believe it. It was great, I felt powerful. Everyone talks about how powerful Twitter is, but at that instant, I truly understood its power. People who have never met, who don't know a single thing about each other, but all share this common interest were all online at the same time, answering great questions and having great conversation about online journalism.
I guess I know what I will be doing on my Wednesday nights this summer. Can't wait.
5.08.2010
Sound bites from the full podcast
Here is a two minute clip of sound bites from my podcast on College Journalism Students. I am working on getting all the audio on one page for easy access. Until then, you can find all the episodes in each of their separate posts in the months of April and May.
Here we go:
Here we go:
5.04.2010
"Can technology help make online content pay?"
Type "How to paint with water colors" into the Google search box and a whole slew of answers are at your disposal. A recent article from The Economist, discusses the use of content farms, websites that create content to drive up search traffic and therefore revenue. One of the largest of these "content farms" is Demand Media, which according to the Economist article "Emperors and Beggars," is a combination of science and art. Special software seeks what topics users are most interested in as well as how much revenue a certain topic will create.About 7,000 freelancers write articles or make videos about each topic. They must have a "college degree, writing expertise, and a specialty." On average, they make about $20-$25 an hour.
Should this be considered journalism? The content posted on these websites is at best mediocre. The point gets across to the reader, and ultimately gives them the answer they were looking for. The writers get paid, and must have some sort of expertise to be posting articles. I have a hard time calling these writers journalists. Are they seeking out a story and finding answers? Or do they themselves already have the answers? The content of a story is what drives it, and if readers are getting what they want, and it brings in revenue, perhaps this is the future of our online articles.
Photo from: stylianosm on Flickr
Blasphemy
A tweet on my twitter popped up this morning with an article titled "Cable news is most trusted in new opinion survey."My heart sank a little at this headline. Then, the article proceeded to state that those polled found CNN and Fox news to be more trustworthy than other newspapers and broadcasts. Fox News?! Really?!! What is the world coming to?
Just wanted to share that bit with you today. I have so many posts I want to put up this week I just don't know where to start. Hopefully this little tid bit of info prompts some deep thinking about what your favorite news source is, and how trustworthy you believe it to be. More to come this afternoon.
Just wanted to share that bit with you today. I have so many posts I want to put up this week I just don't know where to start. Hopefully this little tid bit of info prompts some deep thinking about what your favorite news source is, and how trustworthy you believe it to be. More to come this afternoon.
4.29.2010
Final Episode: College Journalism students
God, why am I such a rookie? Noticed this morning that I mispronounced my interviewee's name wrong in the introduction. Sorry in advanced Hallie, improved version will be posted Monday. Although I made such a terrible mistake, a final episode I promised, and a final episode I shall give, good or bad.
(Note, below is the corrected version as of 5/3/10)
Hallie Mathia is a sophomore at Emerson College. What is interesting about her interview is how she explains what her goals are after graduation. Unlike most journalists who plan on writing for a publication after they earn their degree, Hallie wants to go into an entirely new field.
Listen here:
(Note, below is the corrected version as of 5/3/10)
Hallie Mathia is a sophomore at Emerson College. What is interesting about her interview is how she explains what her goals are after graduation. Unlike most journalists who plan on writing for a publication after they earn their degree, Hallie wants to go into an entirely new field.
Listen here:
4.28.2010
The Home Stretch
Exactly 12 days from now, I will no longer be a freshman in college. Thank goodness for that.
This past year at school has not been easy, but nevertheless, I made it through. I feel like getting through your freshman year is a certain milestone. It's your first try at being independent. No more mom or dad to get you whatever you need. You have to take everything you've learned over the past 18 years, and start over, on your own.
This year I have learned more about myself than ever before. Especially in regards to the future I want to make for myself, I have come to love journalism and all it has to offer. When I interview someone, I get this high, because I'm in control, it's my story and no one and bring it down. I love hearing what people have to say about a certain topic. I love hearing someone's story. It's just great. And if there is anything that I have taken out of my academics this year, it is the reassurance that this is what I am meant to do.
Whether or not I will have a solid career doesn't really matter to me right now. I should probably be biting my tongue when I say that, but I have just finished my first year as an undergrad, and I have faith that there will be plenty of methods of news delivery when I graduate. Journalism isn't dying, it's changing.
To be posted tomorrow, the last episode of my podcast on journalism students, featuring Hallie Mathia, a sophomore from Emerson college.
This past year at school has not been easy, but nevertheless, I made it through. I feel like getting through your freshman year is a certain milestone. It's your first try at being independent. No more mom or dad to get you whatever you need. You have to take everything you've learned over the past 18 years, and start over, on your own.
This year I have learned more about myself than ever before. Especially in regards to the future I want to make for myself, I have come to love journalism and all it has to offer. When I interview someone, I get this high, because I'm in control, it's my story and no one and bring it down. I love hearing what people have to say about a certain topic. I love hearing someone's story. It's just great. And if there is anything that I have taken out of my academics this year, it is the reassurance that this is what I am meant to do.
Whether or not I will have a solid career doesn't really matter to me right now. I should probably be biting my tongue when I say that, but I have just finished my first year as an undergrad, and I have faith that there will be plenty of methods of news delivery when I graduate. Journalism isn't dying, it's changing.
To be posted tomorrow, the last episode of my podcast on journalism students, featuring Hallie Mathia, a sophomore from Emerson college.
4.22.2010
"You need to be like the one man band"
This week's podcast features Alexis Brown, a senior at NYU. When Alexis first got into journalism she focused on hard news pieces, but living in New York City has taught her that journalism is much more than only covering one topic. Alexis' beat lies in covering art. I love the story she tells in this podcast of learning glass blowing. As she says, it demonstrates that to really make the most of your story, you have to make the most of the topic you are covering. If that means jumping in and getting your hands dirty, then so be it.
Next year Alexis will be attending grad school to expand her knowledge of the arts and she hopes to travel to experience different cultures around the world. This will definitely make her stand out from other freelance writers and hopefully give her a great career.
Listen here:
Congratulations Alexis, and good luck next year!
Next year Alexis will be attending grad school to expand her knowledge of the arts and she hopes to travel to experience different cultures around the world. This will definitely make her stand out from other freelance writers and hopefully give her a great career.
Listen here:
Congratulations Alexis, and good luck next year!
4.20.2010
The Best of the Audio (so far)
Here is a small track I made of the best audio clips from my podcast thus far. I mixed in a bit of the interview that will be posted later this week, featuring Alexis Brown, a student from NYU. Consider it a sneak preview of her interview. Enjoy!:
4.16.2010
Who actually takes a newspaper?
Right now I am sitting in a cafe in the Endicott academic center. Coincidentally, I am directly facing the stack of newspapers that are put out everyday for students and faculty to take. The newspapers are part of the Collegiate Readership Program and feature some big name metro papers like USA Today, The Boston Globe, and The New York Times.
It has been about 40 minutes. As I sit on this fancy laptop, people watching as flocks of students run in to grab a coffee before their next class, I can't help but notice that not one student has taken a newspaper. Interestingly enough, about four faculty members came and got one, some took one of each paper.
This right here is living proof that....wait.... a student just took one....
Anyways, its practically living proof that young adults don't have any interest in reading a newspaper. The last thing on their mind in the morning is sitting down to a nice cup of coffee and reading the top stories about the airports closing in Europe or the latest on the war in Iraq. To be honest, most of these students could care less. Maybe they will go online to the Globe and read the headlines, but it is highly doubted. Students want quick info, snippets, and if it sounds important, or of interest, then they will read further.
My guess is that most people in the younger generation get their news via twitter updates or from a link a friend posted on facebook. Maybe they will go to AOL or Yahoo for some human interest stories. The big question is, are students today savvy about what is going on in the world around them? If I were to randomly select one student in this cafe right now, would they be able to tell me about the debate on healthcare legislation? I'll admit, I'm a bit worried that if my generation doesn't care about the news now, will they ever?
Soon enough, I'm sure, a new outlet will be created to get the days top stories across to those who aren't your daily news readers. Soon, however, can not come soon enough.
It has been about 40 minutes. As I sit on this fancy laptop, people watching as flocks of students run in to grab a coffee before their next class, I can't help but notice that not one student has taken a newspaper. Interestingly enough, about four faculty members came and got one, some took one of each paper.
This right here is living proof that....wait.... a student just took one....
Anyways, its practically living proof that young adults don't have any interest in reading a newspaper. The last thing on their mind in the morning is sitting down to a nice cup of coffee and reading the top stories about the airports closing in Europe or the latest on the war in Iraq. To be honest, most of these students could care less. Maybe they will go online to the Globe and read the headlines, but it is highly doubted. Students want quick info, snippets, and if it sounds important, or of interest, then they will read further.
My guess is that most people in the younger generation get their news via twitter updates or from a link a friend posted on facebook. Maybe they will go to AOL or Yahoo for some human interest stories. The big question is, are students today savvy about what is going on in the world around them? If I were to randomly select one student in this cafe right now, would they be able to tell me about the debate on healthcare legislation? I'll admit, I'm a bit worried that if my generation doesn't care about the news now, will they ever?
Soon enough, I'm sure, a new outlet will be created to get the days top stories across to those who aren't your daily news readers. Soon, however, can not come soon enough.
4.14.2010
A Muffin Choker
While I don't know much about investigative journalism, I find this idea of a "muffin choker" absolutely hilarious. Just imagine someone sitting down to their morning breakfast, folding open the newspaper (or maybe pulling up their favorite news website) to the front page story. Suddenly they are so shocked by what they have read that they literally choke on their breakfast. Now that must be one good article.
Many big time newspapers are now collaborating with journalism schools to produce some really amazing investigative journalism pieces. It's a win-win situation: students get a great story to use on a resume, and newspapers get some free reporting. Let's just hope no one suffers to greatly from reading a great investigative story.
Many big time newspapers are now collaborating with journalism schools to produce some really amazing investigative journalism pieces. It's a win-win situation: students get a great story to use on a resume, and newspapers get some free reporting. Let's just hope no one suffers to greatly from reading a great investigative story.
4.13.2010
Pat Cusick shares his latest podcast episode
This week I have a break from creating a new episode, so here we feature Pat Cusick, a junior here at Endicott, who is also podcasting about the so called dying field of journalism.
Pat interviewed Greg Payne, the editor of our school newspaper, The Observer. Greg has created a successful blog (CelticsCircuit.com) which he transitioned into a job writing for CelticsBlog.com, a well known Boston Celtics website.
Listen here:
Thanks for sharing Pat!
Pat interviewed Greg Payne, the editor of our school newspaper, The Observer. Greg has created a successful blog (CelticsCircuit.com) which he transitioned into a job writing for CelticsBlog.com, a well known Boston Celtics website.
Listen here:
Thanks for sharing Pat!
4.08.2010
Episode number two
Podcast episode two is finished and ready to be listened to. It features Tim Healey, a senior from my hometown of Danbury, CT. Currently he is the editor of the Danbury High School newspaper, The Hatters Herald. He has done a great job with their newspaper and next year he will be moving on to bigger and better things as a freshman at Boston University.
One of my favorite quotes from this episode is when Tim is talking about what he hopes to accomplish next year at BU. He says "I just want to let people know I'm there." I think that is one of the best possible things you can do your first year. Don't stand in the background, let people know you are there and ready to work. If editors and professors don't know your name with in the first few months, then you are in for a long journey. I have found that when people can place a face to your name, then things like getting stories or even some extra help on a paper come much more easily.
Listen Here:
Good luck next year Tim!
One of my favorite quotes from this episode is when Tim is talking about what he hopes to accomplish next year at BU. He says "I just want to let people know I'm there." I think that is one of the best possible things you can do your first year. Don't stand in the background, let people know you are there and ready to work. If editors and professors don't know your name with in the first few months, then you are in for a long journey. I have found that when people can place a face to your name, then things like getting stories or even some extra help on a paper come much more easily.
Listen Here:
Good luck next year Tim!
4.01.2010
An interview in the North End
Yesterday was quite hectic. After my morning class I headed into Boston to do an interview with a friend of mine who is a journalism major at Northeastern University. I had just half a day to go into Boston, get the story, come back, and edit it. Gotta love deadlines.
In a cute little Italian Cafe in the North End I interviewed Laura about the obstacles she is facing now, if she is afraid of the future, and what qualities journalism students need to set themselves apart from the competition. She answered these questions among others with great honesty and expressed her love for the field of journalism.
My favorite part of the interview was listening to her talk about the latest story she wrote for one of her classes. She went to a speech at BC that was given by some Catholic nuns. They are feminists, who want to be priests, but they belong to a church that won't let them. Laura loved listening to the speech because she found a personal connection with it and went back to her room to write a great story that just flowed out of her. Then yesterday she discovered she got a C on the story and was disappointed.
We all know that feeling of getting a grade back that you were expecting to be great, but when you look at the letter grade on the paper you worked so hard to write, a pit forms in the bottom of your stomach. It's part shock, part nerves, part anxiety all wrapped into one. However, it's not the end of the world. We are still learning and have a long way to go. It goes to show that sometimes the stories we love to write are not always our best work.
Listen here:
In a cute little Italian Cafe in the North End I interviewed Laura about the obstacles she is facing now, if she is afraid of the future, and what qualities journalism students need to set themselves apart from the competition. She answered these questions among others with great honesty and expressed her love for the field of journalism.
My favorite part of the interview was listening to her talk about the latest story she wrote for one of her classes. She went to a speech at BC that was given by some Catholic nuns. They are feminists, who want to be priests, but they belong to a church that won't let them. Laura loved listening to the speech because she found a personal connection with it and went back to her room to write a great story that just flowed out of her. Then yesterday she discovered she got a C on the story and was disappointed.
We all know that feeling of getting a grade back that you were expecting to be great, but when you look at the letter grade on the paper you worked so hard to write, a pit forms in the bottom of your stomach. It's part shock, part nerves, part anxiety all wrapped into one. However, it's not the end of the world. We are still learning and have a long way to go. It goes to show that sometimes the stories we love to write are not always our best work.
Listen here:
3.31.2010
TimesCast
I just have to say I love the new TimesCast that plays on the New York Times. Everyday between 1 and 2 p.m. the New York Times features a video of the days top stories on their homepage. Simply amazing. I love that it is a short 5 to 6 minute clip of the biggest stories you need to know about and it also demonstrates how these stories are reported on in the newsroom. Viewers get an inside look into the meetings that decide the top stories as well as the chance to hear quick interviews with editors and reporters. What better way to get a quick glimpse on what is happening around the world?
3.23.2010
Back to Reality
Now that spring break is over with, it is back to work for me. 5 weeks and counting.
Over break I went on a bit of a shopping spree. I just couldn't help it, with all the new spring clothes out on the racks, it's like they were calling my name to try on and take home! But after I spent a ridiculous amount of money on these beautiful spring clothes, I thought, I will probably never get to do this ever again after I graduate from college.
In all reality, my starting salary is going to be extremely low, and there is no way I am going to be able to afford the luxuries of life. Let's face it, journalists today don't make a lot of money, unless they are someone like Diane Sawyer. I'll probably have more than one job and will be working way too many hours. During my internship, my mentor was a recent graduate who had just entered the working world. I saw how much she worked and heard about how little she could afford. She said, "You better really love journalism and be sure this is what you want to do." Those words have been echoing in my ears for the past few days.
But I really do love journalism. And I guess there are just going to be some sacrifices I am going to have to make. So goodbye colorful, bright, way too expensive spring clothes. It was nice knowing ya.
Over break I went on a bit of a shopping spree. I just couldn't help it, with all the new spring clothes out on the racks, it's like they were calling my name to try on and take home! But after I spent a ridiculous amount of money on these beautiful spring clothes, I thought, I will probably never get to do this ever again after I graduate from college.
In all reality, my starting salary is going to be extremely low, and there is no way I am going to be able to afford the luxuries of life. Let's face it, journalists today don't make a lot of money, unless they are someone like Diane Sawyer. I'll probably have more than one job and will be working way too many hours. During my internship, my mentor was a recent graduate who had just entered the working world. I saw how much she worked and heard about how little she could afford. She said, "You better really love journalism and be sure this is what you want to do." Those words have been echoing in my ears for the past few days.
But I really do love journalism. And I guess there are just going to be some sacrifices I am going to have to make. So goodbye colorful, bright, way too expensive spring clothes. It was nice knowing ya.
3.11.2010
3.10.2010
First Great Podcast
Well actually, it's the second, but I think this story is better than the first. Bill Melanson works in the mail and copy center here at Endicott College but his true passion lies in playing drums. He has been playing since he was 13 and has traveled with a few bands. Currently, he is working with a band but he name of Waking Lazarus that plays Christian rock. Have a listen:
3.05.2010
Calling ALL Journalism students
I am working on a podcast project about journalism students. After learning the basics of recording audio, I am finally ready to start this big podcast of about 5 episodes. I want to talk to other journalism students about why they chose to study journalism, how they feel about job opportunities after graduation, what special areas they are into, and much more. If you want to be part of my podcast, shoot me an email, I'd love to hear from other students facing the same struggles and pressures as I am.
There is a whole world out there
The other day I read this article from SPJ about joining the Peace Corps after graduation. It has always crossed my mind to join an organization like the Peace Corps but I never looked at it from a journalistic perspective. There is a whole world filled with stories and it would be so fun to tell these stories through the eyes of a Peace Corps worker. It's just another great thing to add to a resume, and it can set you apart from the competition.
Here's the article: Find a future in journalism with overseas' work
Here's the article: Find a future in journalism with overseas' work
3.03.2010
If it bleeds...
There is a huge gap in my blog posts, thought I should mention that is because I was in a snow mobile accident about three weeks ago. I was in New Hampshire visiting my aunt and uncle and decided to try driving one of their snow mobiles. I wasn't on it for five minutes before diving head first into a giant ditch with a boulder at the bottom. I don't remember any of the accident, just opening my eyes in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. In the end, I had a few facial fractures and a concussion, and now i am finally starting to catch up with all that I missed while on bed rest for ten days.
Every time someone asks me about what happened, I tell them this story and they stare at me in amazement. We all know that stories about a disaster of some sort make the headlines. Readers are fascinated with someone who has had to go through a horrific accident because it is unimaginable to put ourselves in their shoes. Although stores that "bleed"might be hard to read, they sell newspapers. Besides that, I think it is important for the public to understand the events that happen in our society everyday, including the bad and the ugly. After all, that's what a reporter is there to do, report a story and let the reader determine what it is they want to take from it.
Every time someone asks me about what happened, I tell them this story and they stare at me in amazement. We all know that stories about a disaster of some sort make the headlines. Readers are fascinated with someone who has had to go through a horrific accident because it is unimaginable to put ourselves in their shoes. Although stores that "bleed"might be hard to read, they sell newspapers. Besides that, I think it is important for the public to understand the events that happen in our society everyday, including the bad and the ugly. After all, that's what a reporter is there to do, report a story and let the reader determine what it is they want to take from it.
3.01.2010
"J-Schools to the rescue?"
This article was very interesting and it got me thinking, are journalism schools leading students to believe they can have a future in journalism when in reality a degree in this field is very risky?
Read it, its good: J-Schools to the rescue?
Something has to change in order for all the journalism students now to get a job in the future. With so many lay offs at the metro and local newspaper, journalists today have to be able to set themselves apart from the average reporter. The New York Times is teaming up with NYU to offer a program that allows students to cover a section on Manhattan's East Village. This is a fabulous idea. It's kind of like a step up from an internship, because you have the opportunity to work with your college peers on an actual daily paper. But will this make a difference when you are competing with peers for jobs come graduation?
Read it, its good: J-Schools to the rescue?
Something has to change in order for all the journalism students now to get a job in the future. With so many lay offs at the metro and local newspaper, journalists today have to be able to set themselves apart from the average reporter. The New York Times is teaming up with NYU to offer a program that allows students to cover a section on Manhattan's East Village. This is a fabulous idea. It's kind of like a step up from an internship, because you have the opportunity to work with your college peers on an actual daily paper. But will this make a difference when you are competing with peers for jobs come graduation?
2.26.2010
2.25.2010
Everyone's a journalist
Is that guys sitting next to you on the train a journalist? What about the person two tables over from you in the coffee shop?
It seems like anyone in their right mind can be a journalist today. Am I really competing with the person crossing the street? Some consider anyone who blogs or writes to be a reporter, but giving your own opinion on a matter in the form of a blog post should not be considered journalism. (oops, not that I'm being hypocritical or anything).
This industry has done a complete turn around with the technology boom. If reporting some sort of news that occurred is considered journalism, then heck almost every tweet on twitter is a report. I think the term journalism has gotten insanely broad over the past few years. New types of journalism have formed and most people studying this field have some sort of specialty. But I am a believer that having a degree is, and very well should, get you further then not having one.
It seems like anyone in their right mind can be a journalist today. Am I really competing with the person crossing the street? Some consider anyone who blogs or writes to be a reporter, but giving your own opinion on a matter in the form of a blog post should not be considered journalism. (oops, not that I'm being hypocritical or anything).
This industry has done a complete turn around with the technology boom. If reporting some sort of news that occurred is considered journalism, then heck almost every tweet on twitter is a report. I think the term journalism has gotten insanely broad over the past few years. New types of journalism have formed and most people studying this field have some sort of specialty. But I am a believer that having a degree is, and very well should, get you further then not having one.
2.11.2010
2.08.2010
O Monday
This is a great article, just sayin.'
Thought I should mention that today I conducted my first podcast interview. Much to my surprise, it was extremely easy! I was worried that I would mess up the recorder, that there was a slight possibility of it exploding and my whole podcast being ruined. Not really. But you get the point, I was nervous.
I checked out the H2 zoom, it was so easy to use. I just googled the most simple way of how to record with it, watched a YouTube video about it right before the interview, and presto, I was a pro. Holding the microphone right up to my interviewee felt really cool, and it was really fun.
I have slowly started editing the recording, but I need to emphasize the word slowly. The whole podcast is due by Friday, so I have some more googling about using GarageBand to do. I have mostly been cutting out the bad stuff and mushing audio together. It's pretty choppy, so I need to work on smoothing it out.
I can't post the interview here, the interviewee does not want me to, and I will respect that. But there is definitely more of this podcasting business to come, don't fret.
Thought I should mention that today I conducted my first podcast interview. Much to my surprise, it was extremely easy! I was worried that I would mess up the recorder, that there was a slight possibility of it exploding and my whole podcast being ruined. Not really. But you get the point, I was nervous.
I checked out the H2 zoom, it was so easy to use. I just googled the most simple way of how to record with it, watched a YouTube video about it right before the interview, and presto, I was a pro. Holding the microphone right up to my interviewee felt really cool, and it was really fun.
I have slowly started editing the recording, but I need to emphasize the word slowly. The whole podcast is due by Friday, so I have some more googling about using GarageBand to do. I have mostly been cutting out the bad stuff and mushing audio together. It's pretty choppy, so I need to work on smoothing it out.
I can't post the interview here, the interviewee does not want me to, and I will respect that. But there is definitely more of this podcasting business to come, don't fret.
2.05.2010
Some vocab terms
Here is a list of vocab terms that every journalism student should know. I had no idea what some of them were, so I am also helping my clueless self by typing these definitions:
RSS: (really simple syndication) web feed that is constantly updated in one standardized format. It benefits blog readers, people who get their news online, as well as audio and video online because the media is updated instantly
SMS: (short message service) in other words, this is text messaging. People can now get news updates sent to their phone via text message
e-paper: also called "electronic paper." This is a display of technology that mimics paper. The paper reflects light and displays images indefinitely
Widgets: displays an information arrangement changeable by the viewer such as a window or text box. This allows viewers to directly interact with the website
vlogs: video blogging. what I am writing now but in video form
Twitter: free micro blogging service that allows users to update "tweets," 140 word phrases. Most newspapers have a twitter account to update readers in short, consistent statuses
HTML: the language used to layout web pages. I know, there is a language to write web pages? yes, it is very very complicated
RSS: (really simple syndication) web feed that is constantly updated in one standardized format. It benefits blog readers, people who get their news online, as well as audio and video online because the media is updated instantly
SMS: (short message service) in other words, this is text messaging. People can now get news updates sent to their phone via text message
e-paper: also called "electronic paper." This is a display of technology that mimics paper. The paper reflects light and displays images indefinitely
Widgets: displays an information arrangement changeable by the viewer such as a window or text box. This allows viewers to directly interact with the website
vlogs: video blogging. what I am writing now but in video form
Twitter: free micro blogging service that allows users to update "tweets," 140 word phrases. Most newspapers have a twitter account to update readers in short, consistent statuses
HTML: the language used to layout web pages. I know, there is a language to write web pages? yes, it is very very complicated
2.02.2010
An Epiphany
Today I had an epiphany. Yes, that's right, an epiphany.
After sulking about my future career yesterday, I have come to a distinct conclusion about the use of technology for journalism. Perhaps it is not about learning all the right ways to use the technology, it is about the content within the medium.
I know you may be thinking, "why hasn't this girl thought about that before," right? Well, I have been so consumed with learning about the technology, that I forgot the most important part, the content. A story is still a story no matter what medium it is in. A boring topic is still going to be boring whether it is in print, video, audio or photos.
So then, here comes the big question... what kinds of stories do people like the most? What intrigues the reader? I think news is not meant to be told through online video. Personally, I enjoy the little things in life. Like the story of the local kids who did some huge charity project. That makes people happy. It makes listeners/viewers/readers get the warm fuzzies. Warm fuzzies are good, they sell.
After sulking about my future career yesterday, I have come to a distinct conclusion about the use of technology for journalism. Perhaps it is not about learning all the right ways to use the technology, it is about the content within the medium.
I know you may be thinking, "why hasn't this girl thought about that before," right? Well, I have been so consumed with learning about the technology, that I forgot the most important part, the content. A story is still a story no matter what medium it is in. A boring topic is still going to be boring whether it is in print, video, audio or photos.
So then, here comes the big question... what kinds of stories do people like the most? What intrigues the reader? I think news is not meant to be told through online video. Personally, I enjoy the little things in life. Like the story of the local kids who did some huge charity project. That makes people happy. It makes listeners/viewers/readers get the warm fuzzies. Warm fuzzies are good, they sell.
2.01.2010
The Future of Journalism
An article from Kevin Z. Smith, president of the Society for Professional Journalists, states, "While the answer to journalism’s future hasn’t been decided, be confident that SPJ will be an organization that makes the future happen rather than watches and wonders."
The constant talk about the future of our industry is extremely depressing for a college student. By the time I graduate, many say there is the potential for newspapers to be dead, leaving myself and all the other journalism students left with nothing. But, as Smith says, there is a future, and it is up to the journalist to make the choice to just "let the future happen, wonder what happened or make it happen."
Some say the future of journalism lies with social media, some say once the economy picks back up so will newspapers, and others say news can no longer be free and readers will have to pay for news online.
As I sit here typing this blog post, I wonder, what am I getting myself into? Almost everyday I ask myself that question while pondering if I will ever have a successful journalism career. But, Smith's article has given me a little bit of hope. Instead of waiting for the future to happen, students like me need to make it happen. But how?
How can a puny freshman like myself possibly know what direction to head in? There is so much left to learn, and so little time. Right now, bringing this topic up in class for discussion is one way to get some great ideas. Learning about technology and the effectiveness of Twitter, video, and web is going to take a lot of time, but it has to be done if a student like me is ever going to gain success. SPJ is a great organization, and it has the power to change the future of journalism.
The constant talk about the future of our industry is extremely depressing for a college student. By the time I graduate, many say there is the potential for newspapers to be dead, leaving myself and all the other journalism students left with nothing. But, as Smith says, there is a future, and it is up to the journalist to make the choice to just "let the future happen, wonder what happened or make it happen."
Some say the future of journalism lies with social media, some say once the economy picks back up so will newspapers, and others say news can no longer be free and readers will have to pay for news online.
As I sit here typing this blog post, I wonder, what am I getting myself into? Almost everyday I ask myself that question while pondering if I will ever have a successful journalism career. But, Smith's article has given me a little bit of hope. Instead of waiting for the future to happen, students like me need to make it happen. But how?
How can a puny freshman like myself possibly know what direction to head in? There is so much left to learn, and so little time. Right now, bringing this topic up in class for discussion is one way to get some great ideas. Learning about technology and the effectiveness of Twitter, video, and web is going to take a lot of time, but it has to be done if a student like me is ever going to gain success. SPJ is a great organization, and it has the power to change the future of journalism.
1.28.2010
Some Goals
I know it's a bit late to be setting goals for this year, but I figure better late then never right?
With the first week of the new semester almost over, I have decided I want to set some goals to help keep me focused on this whole learning technology thing.
Here they are:
- Have some podcasts posted on this blog. (I will be learning all about podcasting in one of my classes, so this goal should be an easy one, knock on wood)
- Independently learn some HTML code because as of right now, it's all gibberish to me
- Post more pictures
- Learn more about short video documentaries and how they are transforming journalism
- Share my thoughts about new issues surrounding media
- Get some followers
'Crossing my fingers that I can get these done by this time next year, and also have fun doing them'
With the first week of the new semester almost over, I have decided I want to set some goals to help keep me focused on this whole learning technology thing.
Here they are:
- Have some podcasts posted on this blog. (I will be learning all about podcasting in one of my classes, so this goal should be an easy one, knock on wood)
- Independently learn some HTML code because as of right now, it's all gibberish to me
- Post more pictures
- Learn more about short video documentaries and how they are transforming journalism
- Share my thoughts about new issues surrounding media
- Get some followers
'Crossing my fingers that I can get these done by this time next year, and also have fun doing them'
1.26.2010
The College Newspaper
So tonight was the first meeting of the semester for my college paper, the Endicott Observer. With a new editor, it seems like the paper is making a change for the better. Ideas were flowing and hopefully we will get more readers around campus.
Because I attend a private college, there is no true "free press." Stories are usually limited to the awards the school has recently won, or a new club. No student really wants to read about the boring stuff happening around campus like community service, they want something that they can read over lunch or while waiting for their next class. I think there are ways around the administrations guidelines, after all, shouldn't it be a newspaper for the students?
As probably one of the only college newspapers without an online element, I am going to make it my goal to start getting stories on the website, even if they are only the one the administration likes to read. It's really hard when someone asks to read some of your clips online and you have nothing to offer them but sending actual clips through snail mail. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this semester will be a great one for the Observer.
Because I attend a private college, there is no true "free press." Stories are usually limited to the awards the school has recently won, or a new club. No student really wants to read about the boring stuff happening around campus like community service, they want something that they can read over lunch or while waiting for their next class. I think there are ways around the administrations guidelines, after all, shouldn't it be a newspaper for the students?
As probably one of the only college newspapers without an online element, I am going to make it my goal to start getting stories on the website, even if they are only the one the administration likes to read. It's really hard when someone asks to read some of your clips online and you have nothing to offer them but sending actual clips through snail mail. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this semester will be a great one for the Observer.
1.25.2010
Graphic Design
Does a newspaper/magazines web design have anything to do with how may readers it gets?
A newspaper has a very distinct look and design to it, and magazines have become more about graphics and clear photos. But, when you read the newspaper online in the morning, does it have the same affect as reading it in print edition? The design of a web page, according to Adam Westbrook, a multimedia journalist in London, is the reason why people refuse to pay a fee for online news.
As Westbrook notes in his article, every news website has a similar format. A few columns, the middle column for the article and pictures and video on the side. The need for web designers is huge, and this article further proves that journalism students absolutely need to be aware of all the multimedia that embodies a story today. The New York Times online edition is formatted like a newspaper, perhaps that is why it's so popular?
Anyways, there are tons of employment opportunities when you know how to use software programs that are used for graphic design. I definitely need to put that on a to do list.
A newspaper has a very distinct look and design to it, and magazines have become more about graphics and clear photos. But, when you read the newspaper online in the morning, does it have the same affect as reading it in print edition? The design of a web page, according to Adam Westbrook, a multimedia journalist in London, is the reason why people refuse to pay a fee for online news.
As Westbrook notes in his article, every news website has a similar format. A few columns, the middle column for the article and pictures and video on the side. The need for web designers is huge, and this article further proves that journalism students absolutely need to be aware of all the multimedia that embodies a story today. The New York Times online edition is formatted like a newspaper, perhaps that is why it's so popular?
Anyways, there are tons of employment opportunities when you know how to use software programs that are used for graphic design. I definitely need to put that on a to do list.
1.21.2010
Internship: Over
Some tips I have learned from my internship:
-get to know people in the newsroom, it will help you in the long run. I wish I had gotten to know some of the reporters a bit better, especially the ones who have been in this industry a long time
-Take classes that are going to advance your understanding of multi media. With every story, there is the potential to turn it into audio, video, and a web piece. Know how to use a Flip camera as well as a digital camera.
- Know how to write in different styles. Everything from hard news to light hearted features. Personally, I can work on creative writing skills
- Have a beat
Overall, I think working at a "real world" newspaper has definitely given me a better perspective of this industry. I still have no idea what my beat is, but I do see how much I still have to learn.
-get to know people in the newsroom, it will help you in the long run. I wish I had gotten to know some of the reporters a bit better, especially the ones who have been in this industry a long time
-Take classes that are going to advance your understanding of multi media. With every story, there is the potential to turn it into audio, video, and a web piece. Know how to use a Flip camera as well as a digital camera.
- Know how to write in different styles. Everything from hard news to light hearted features. Personally, I can work on creative writing skills
- Have a beat
Overall, I think working at a "real world" newspaper has definitely given me a better perspective of this industry. I still have no idea what my beat is, but I do see how much I still have to learn.
1.19.2010
Surgeon or Journalist?
This article describes what some think to be one of the many dilemmas of journalism ethics. Dr. Sanjay Gupta is a neurosurgeon who has been reporting on the medical catastrophe in Haiti while helping patients. The author of the article, Steve Pendlebury, questions whether or not there is a line between covering a story and participating in it.
Who would tell a better story, a journalist who knows little about medical issues, or a reporter who first handedly understands exactly what the medical disaster is in Haiti right now? Sometimes getting the right quote, or capturing the perfect shot is not the most important thing. Right now, journalists have a life changing opportunity to get the most out of covering the disaster in Haiti. Putting down the notepad for a few minutes to help dig in the ruins for missing people, or in this case, pick up a scalpel to save a life is more important than getting a good story.
Who would tell a better story, a journalist who knows little about medical issues, or a reporter who first handedly understands exactly what the medical disaster is in Haiti right now? Sometimes getting the right quote, or capturing the perfect shot is not the most important thing. Right now, journalists have a life changing opportunity to get the most out of covering the disaster in Haiti. Putting down the notepad for a few minutes to help dig in the ruins for missing people, or in this case, pick up a scalpel to save a life is more important than getting a good story.
Rough Day
Today, I officially learned that writing stories about someone who has passed away is a nearly impossible task. I opened my big mouth at an ideas meeting and said that an '08 high school graduate from our town recently died. Well, (again with the big mouth) a week ago I had mentioned to my supervisor I wanted to variety of stories while on my internship. Lucky me got assigned this one. So to begin, I looked at the facebook page that was created in her honor and contacted her best friend. Then I called her house, where the last thing a relative wants to do is talk to a reporter. I pretty much failed at this assignment today. But I have learned one thing from it: you are not always going to have sources that cooperate. Take two at it tomorrow.
I've heard that writing this type of story is one of the hardest assignments. Going to a families house, where they are trying to grieve, can be a really difficult endeavor. I know I will have to face my fear of writing this type of assignment one day, but as a freshman, I don't know if I'm ready. I don't do well holding in my emotions.
I've heard that writing this type of story is one of the hardest assignments. Going to a families house, where they are trying to grieve, can be a really difficult endeavor. I know I will have to face my fear of writing this type of assignment one day, but as a freshman, I don't know if I'm ready. I don't do well holding in my emotions.
1.18.2010
Podcasting
Next semester I am taking podcast journalism. Honestly, I have absolutely no idea what exactly "podcasting" is or how to even begin doing it. I googled podcasting basics and this is what I came up with. Pretty good information on this site. About.com, although may not be the most trust worthy source, usually has some good stuff.
So, the second half of next semester, I am supposed to come up with 4 episodes of a podcast, that means I have about 2 months to learn all I can about creating, interviewing, and editing audio. Should be quite the experience.
In relation to journalism, I think podcasting proves to be yet another medium of story telling. Again, like video, it adds a more conversational feel. I remember first hearing the term podcast from itunes, when I got a new ipod and in the menu bar there was a category for podcasts. I have never subscribed to any podcasts, but I am definitely going to start exploring it. Any suggestions?
So, the second half of next semester, I am supposed to come up with 4 episodes of a podcast, that means I have about 2 months to learn all I can about creating, interviewing, and editing audio. Should be quite the experience.
In relation to journalism, I think podcasting proves to be yet another medium of story telling. Again, like video, it adds a more conversational feel. I remember first hearing the term podcast from itunes, when I got a new ipod and in the menu bar there was a category for podcasts. I have never subscribed to any podcasts, but I am definitely going to start exploring it. Any suggestions?
1.17.2010
Quick thoughts
After three weeks of interning at my local newspaper, I have learned new things about the world of journalism and also see a lot of potential for it. In order to be a successful journalist, I realize, you have to constantly come up with new ideas. Ideas that are innovative and different from other newspapers are going to sell with readers. Personally, I love watching stories in the form of video. I find it so intriguing, and so much more interesting than reading a story. I think there is an aspect to video that makes the story more conversational, and more personnel to readers, or in this case, viewers.
One of the things the paper I am interning for has started doing is holding stories from going online. Some stories are only printed in the paper, particularly one of the opinion columns. Obviously this is to try and sell more newspapers, and I don't really see a problem with it. I have heard people around town disagree with the idea of holding stories from going online. However, perhaps this is the beginning of a "turn around" for the newspaper industry. I think it's a great start to getting readers to buy print editions. Or maybe it will just force people to start buying other papers?
One of the things the paper I am interning for has started doing is holding stories from going online. Some stories are only printed in the paper, particularly one of the opinion columns. Obviously this is to try and sell more newspapers, and I don't really see a problem with it. I have heard people around town disagree with the idea of holding stories from going online. However, perhaps this is the beginning of a "turn around" for the newspaper industry. I think it's a great start to getting readers to buy print editions. Or maybe it will just force people to start buying other papers?
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