"For Future Generations..."

Looking back at this semester, I've learned a lot about myself and my capstone group. I also developed my skills as a videographer, writer, and editor. Through a tedious process, I worked tirelessly all semester on creating a 12-minute documentary, which ultimately took me down a path I did not expect; I met a lot of great people in the surrounding New Wilmington and New Castle community who loved history as much as I did.

It's hard for me to pinpoint exactly what one piece of advice I would pass on to the next BC group at Westminster as they start their capstone journey, but I did learn a few key things. Here are my words of wisdom to the next generation of broadcasters of Westminster College...and hopefully this advice will help them make capstone a learning experience, but also a process that will personally touch their hearts.

#1 First and foremost, choose something that you love to do! This may be something you see yourself doing in the future, but if you're not sure what your future aspirations are, do something that you will find a sense of pride in doing...even if it's time consuming!! My project took me months to complete, and I was still working up until my presentation, but I loved my project. Capstone should be about something you want to do...fight for it and find a way to justify it as a capstone project, even if your professors question its value. This is your future. Granted, you need to do something worthy of a capstone project, but this doesn't mean you should totally blow off your dreams.

#2 Secondly, start to work on your project as earlier as possible and strive for something polished. Sometimes, I wish I would have been more focused on my project earlier on in the semester. The sooner you figure out your direction with the project, the sooner you can delve into the work and can make the best final product you can. Allow time to hammer out those little details. If you can submit your final product to any sort of contests or competitions, do it! Although I'm done with my presentation, I'm still looking for places to enter my documentary, to display my hard work throughout the semester.

#3 And finally, look to people in the community and your mentors from internships and jobs for guidance throughout your capstone project! I was able to meet some interesting people right here in the New Wilmington, New Castle, and Mercer area while filming my documentary, and I relied heavily on their resources and expertise to fuel my project. Every time I discovered something new about the history of Lawrence County from these local historians, I realized there were other ways to enhance my film and make it better. I also followed the advice I received from those at my internship at Newschannel 5. In the end, you will appreciate meeting these people; they all have their own story to tell!!

And probably one the best things about capstone was growing closer and developing a bond with my capstone class. We were all under the same pressure, but as a group of friends we were able to get through it; don't be scared to lean on them for support!

Thanks BC Capstone 2008-2009 for being my support system and more importantly my friends!! :)

What a Relief!

The main part of my capstone is done!! My presentation was this past Monday night, during which I debuted my short film, "Lawrence County: A Community Rooted in History." This project involved me creating four TV packages throughout the semester and then combining them into a film. The four areas I focused on in the history of Lawrence County were the Native Americans, Lawrence County Beginnings, the Civil War and Underground Railroad, and the Industrial Revolution, particularly in New Castle.

In the end, I realized there was also a couple more parts I needed to add to the film as well. I don't think I've spent so much time editing before, but it gave me a lot more experience editing with Final Cut Pro...I learned so much. Also, I decided to create a cool DVD menu to go along with my film, so I figured out how to work DVD Studio Pro, too! However, the most important part was I decided to produce the film like I would produce a TV show for the County Line. I realized they were a lot of similarities.

I needed to make the whole film flow to begin with and tease what I was going to show at the beginning like an "All Tease" at the start of a TV news show. After much thought, I chose to use bits from my interviews in the introduction that sounded interesting, but didn't give too much away...plus intriguing images that would make people want to watch my film. Also, I bought a royalty free music bed from Music Bakery, which I weaved in and out of the film. Adding theme music to the film definitely gave it some color.

The last week before the project, I was frantic trying to make last minute adjustments to the film, finding and adding in the music, sending out invitations, and coordinating with local historians, who brought some of their artifacts to display. Finally, Monday arrived, and everything was set!

I started my presentation with a quick synopsis of the film and why I chose this type of project. I explained how working as a TV reporter at TCL and interning at Newschannel 5 helped me realize that I like having the time to be more creative with my storytelling. I would love to work for PBS, the History Channel, the Travel Channel, or the Discovery Channel...shooting, writing, and editing documentary-type style films. After explaining my journey through the process, I showed my film.

I had 32 people show up to my capstone, and more wanted to come but had conflicts! My professor was impressed and said I need to submit the film to a number of contests like the BEA and the Iris Film Festival. I'm definitely going to submit it to as many contests as I can! I also really appreciated my family and friends for being there. Once I figure out how to best compress my film for the web...I will post it here, so everyone can take a look!!

Dinner Interview Etiquette 101

Last week, our class was required to attend Westminster College's annual, "Dine 'n Shine," hosted by the school's Career Center. This dinner and presentation for senior students gave us some tips on how to conduct ourselves during a job interview over a meal, whether it's dinner, drinks, lunch, etc.

During the event, we enjoyed a delicious meal, while also listening to Dr. Cary Wecht Horvath, assistant professor and chair of the Communication Department at Youngstown State University and former Westminster professor. I never realized how many second or follow-up interviews are conducted during some type of meal. According to Horvath, 80 percent of all second interviews happen at the dinner table.

This kind of scared me...it adds so much extra pressure and so much else you have to worry about when trying to impress a company. However, I got plenty of advice on what to do and what not to do during a dinner interview.

While many of the tips seemed like common sense, one thing I didn't realize was never ask for a "doggie bag." I don't like wasting food, but Horvath said that by taking back leftovers, it makes you look gluttonous...just like ordering too much food. I normally don't order a whole lot of food to begin with when I go out to restaurants, but Horvath even suggested eating a little before you go to an interview over a meal, so that way you can focus more on the interview itself, instead of what you want to eat.

Also, she suggested, it's not a good idea taking awhile to figure out what you want to eat...that makes you look indecisive as a person, and companies want employees that make good, but quick decisions. This is especially true in the broadcasting business.

However, I think the most important valuable information I took away from the night was when the Career Center put on their talent show to demonstrate the difference between business casual and business professional...as well as which was appropriate for each particular setting.

I guess I just didn't think there was that much of a difference; but by watching the show, I learned that business casual is a more relaxed look, often appropriate to wear to work, while business professional is more conservative and clean-cut looking, more appropriate for an actual interview or a special presentation. For example, a business casual look for women may be black dressy pants or a skirt with a nice blouse or sweater, while business professional would be more like a suit pant set that is bought together.

Horvath also stressed that you should dress to fit your company...if they tend to be more casual, you don't want to overdress for the environment, but being too under-dressed is also not a good idea. Overall, this experience was rewarding, and I will definitely take this advice with me when I graduate and continue my job search!

The Job Seach Begins...

During the past two years, I've really started to look more at job opportunities to pursue after I graduate. This week's class assignment wanted me to take this a step further. We were asked to find a job posting that we be interested applying for, describe the job, and create a cover letter we would send to that company.

I'm not going to lie...this was really hard for me. I would like to stay near home (Cleveland, OH), but I was having trouble finding any job openings near my hometown. After searching for awhile, I decided to just look for a job that I would enjoy doing after college...I mean you've got to be flexible.

In the end, I chose a job posting for a "Multi-Media Journalist" at KNXV-15 (ABC) Phoenix. Not only does this career interest me, I think I would have a good chance getting this job because the TV station is owned by The E.W. Scripps Company, which also owns WEWS-Newschannel 5 in Cleveland where I interned this past summer. I could probably get a personal reference from those I worked with at my internship. Here's the job posting/details:

Job Title: Multi-Media Journalist
Status: Full Time
Location: KNXV-15 (ABC) Phoenix

Job Description:
1. Report, write, shoot, edit and produce stories for multiple platforms on deadline, such as Internet
2. Research and develop original news stories
3. Gather facts to support specific assigned news stories
4. Record & edit video to support the presentation of assigned news stories
5. Conduct and record live interviews
6. Deliver compelling, well-written stories
7. Perform other duties as needed and as directed by news managers

Now here's my cover letter...remember, this is a class assignment!

Dear Anice Stonerock:

As a current reporter and producer for the County Line, Westminster College's TV news show, I am very interested in working for KNVX as a multi-media journalist. I am a senior broadcast communications that will graduate in May 2009. I have more than two solid years of television reporting and producing experience.

Students are in charge of producing and running the County Line, a 30-minute live news show, once every week. This year, I have taken on the leadership role as Executive Producer for the show. I have to oversee everything. In addition, my senior project is focused on reporting, so I have been researching, shooting, writing, and editing my own stories all semester. Before this year, I have been a consistent reporter for the show.

Not only do I have hands-on experience at school, I also interned at WEWS-Newschannel 5 this past summer. I mostly worked with the noon news producer, researching, writing, and organizing the show. However, I also had the chance to go out reporters and write my own stories for the show. I know what it is like to work in the pressure of the newsroom.

In addition, I worked in other areas of broadcasting that will help me as multi-media journalist. I have experience directing, technical directing, and anchoring for the County Line; plus I am the director for our school's weekly sports interview show, Coach's Corner. Also, I have excellent writing skills. I know how to write, report, and anchor radio news, and this year I serve as Titan Radio News Director at Westminster. I even worked as a part-time news producer and anchor at WKST 1200 AM in New Castle, PA, for close to a year.

Also, I would bring creativity to the job, since the station is looking for original, fresh stories. I utilized my creative abilities when I interned in radio promotions at 95.5 the Fish radio station in the Independence, OH, two summers ago. Also, I currently DJ and produce a Christian-contemporary music radio show on Titan Radio every Sunday night.

I would greatly appreciate considering me for the multi-media journalist position at KNVX. Please feel free to contact me on my cell phone at (4xx) xxx-xxxx or by e-mail at npiszczor@gmail.com. I look forward to the opportunity to broaden my experience as a broadcaster.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Nicole T. Piszczor

The Deadline Project...

Senior year has been all about perfecting the skills I want to take with me on my future career path. Plus the senior capstone project for broadcast majors at Westminster College surrounds a group of abilities that we're working with at a higher level to create a unique final outcome. It would only make sense that we're doing something we like, something we're good at, and something that we've worked at over our years.

That's the main reason I chose to combine reporting and producing. TV reporters and video storytellers need to plan, shoot, interview, write, speak, and edit effectively. Although many classes have worked on these skills, one in particular stands out: Broadcast Journalism II: TV Reporting.

This class used the notion: practical experience is best. We spent most of our time actually creating TV stories for The County Line. Besides making a package every other week, we also had to attend a borough meeting, get feedback from a person in the business, create a resume tape, and offer constructive criticism to the other students. These assignments were beneficial to me and made me grow as a reporter and storyteller. In a way, I think this class gave me ideas of what to do for my capstone project.

OH WAIT, but I forgot one thing: the hardest, most-challenging part of the class was our most important assignment: the deadline project.

Our professor, Mr. Brad Weaver, thought it was necessary to have us experience what it felt like for TV reporters in the business by creating a package all in one day. This included shooting the video, doing interviews, capturing the video, writing the story, editing the package, and dumping the story back to tape. Mr. Weaver allowed us the opportunity to set up our story ahead of time, by doing some pre-production elements, but that was it. And really, we shouldn't have been able to do that because most reporters learn of their stories the day of and they just go do it in a matter of a few hours.

I must admit I was pretty nervous about the whole thing. Before that project, I tended to work on a package over a span of a couple days, in separate steps. Plus, sometimes (as bad as this was, I now realize it doesn't work very well) I would write the story as I edited. One of the most important things I learned was to pay attention to what video you have so you can write a story that works, then record the audio, then put the video to the story. It takes less time, and you end up having a better product at the end, because you know where you're starting and ending before you sit down to edit. That's not to say you can't change a couple things along the way, but you don't compromise what you really want to get across in your story.

Overall, the assignment was a little stressful, but a good experience. I got up early to shoot my story: I decided to do explain the role of the IRS Criminal Division by following them around for a simulation day at Westminster. Despite being up early, I wanted video from each major event, but they were spread throughout the day. As much as I wanted to edit earlier in the day, I couldn't, and I felt like I was running out of time. One thing I did learn about interviews was to ask enough questions, but don't ask about EVERYTHING. Some of my interviews were really long, and it was hard to find what I needed when I sat down to edit and pick my sound.

The editing process also was tedious, especially when I went to render the project and the computer started to freeze. I had to restart the computer and redo a number of edits, but somehow I still finished on time. The deadline project was one experience I will never forget...it also allowed me to see what you need to do when you're under the pressure of the deadline and the easier way to do things when creating a TV package. You can watch my final product below!

Back to the Future...

It's 10 years ahead into the future...and I'm on my way back to Westminster College for the homecoming festivities. Life has been super busy, like it always is, so this is my first trip back to my Alma Mater since graduation. After such a long absence, I'm excited to see all the new changes and additions, as well as my old classmates and friends. However, I particularly, can't wait to see one fellow broadcasting major: Doug Kunst.

I've heard news about his success through the grapevine and online when I saw news releases on the college Web site. Needless to say, I want to actually talk to him in person after all these years. The latest I heard was that Doug was working as a sports reporter in Pittsburgh. He has reported for numerous high school and professional football and hockey games. Also, whenever he's not in front of the camera, Doug is working behind the scenes gathering sports data and stats or shooting sports highlights.

So, I pull into Westminster and find a parking lot near the stadium. The first place I want to visit is the radio station. After climbing the huge hill, I make it to the campus center and head upstairs. The radio station looks just the way I remember it. Sure enough, one of the first people I run into is Doug.

He confirms the news I had heard about how his career is going...Doug has been working with WTAE in Pittsburgh. I remember that he had an internship there the summer before his last year at Westminster. Doug says he's doing what he loves to do, and that's always a great things to hear from anyone.

I remember "back in the day" when Doug and I used to work on The County Line together. We both were EPs for the show. The two of us worked on producing and took turns directing/TDing the show. In addition, we both reported for the show...I focused on feature stories, while Doug (or should I say Dee Kay?) would do sports highlights packages of the Wilmington Greyhounds. Plus, for his senior capstone project, he followed the Wilmington Greyhound football team in the fall of 2008 and created a weblog featuring highlights from the team's home games. These highlights not only showed the important plays of each game, but also the atmosphere and the fans that came to the game each week, ready to win.

Doug and I have been friends for a long time now, and it felt good to catch up with him. He's someone I respect...he knows how to get the job done. I've worked with him on many occasions, and I had no doubt he would go far in the broadcasting business. And as we both head down the field to check out Westminster's homecoming football game, Doug fills me in that the best experience he's had since he started working after school was reporting at a Pittsburgh Penguins game! We laugh, and I say, well there's only more to look forward to...just wait and see...

Time to Step Up!

It's hard to think right now of my life beyond college, well rather, Westminster's broadcast department continuing without me. This is not to say that I do it all without any help, but more to say that for four years, I've put a lot of hard work, time, and effort into doing something I love and that I'm proud to put on air.

However, the time is drawing near, when I'll have to say my last words to broadcasting here at Westminster and "pass along the torch" to a younger generation. So, here in lies my consideration for this week: who will step up and lead the way next year?

I must say I admire and respect a number of upcoming students. Many have worked hard to contribute their time and talents to this broadcast crew, this team. However, I especially see a lot of potential and growth in one student: junior Ryan Hitchcock.

Ryan is kind of soft-spoken; he doesn't go around bragging about anything, but he knows his stuff. Plus, Ryan just seems to get it...he gets that this business is not for wimps and that you just need to get the job done right: that's what it's all about in the end.

Ryan has gotten involved with a majority of broadcast-related areas on campus. I know he's dabbled in TV remotes and still keeps true to radio DJing and radio news producing/anchoring. In particular, Ryan strikes me as very "real," when he's on the air, DJing. He's very conversational and talks like he would to anyone throughout his regular day. Also, his radio news skills have improved tremendously so far this semester, as he's taking BC 311, which focuses on radio news reporting.

Overall, I think I'm most impressed with Ryan because of his step forward in TV this year. He knows how to put together VO/SOTs and a simple package, but ultimately Ryan was interested in TDing and directing, so he made sure both Doug, the other director, and I knew that from the get go. Already, Ryan has TDed an entire show himself, and he did pretty well. To me, Ryan seemed to emerge from nowhere, in terms of TV, and I'm proud that he expressed this interest right away, so he can gain experience earlier on during his time here at Westminster College.

Eventually, a couple more shows in, Doug and I will teach Ryan how to direct; hopefully, he take the TV Producing class and the TV Directing practicum next semester, so he can work on these skills. In the future, five to ten years down the road, I could see Ryan directing the news for a local TV affiliate station; so of course, it would be beneficial for me to keep in contact with him. Ryan could help me network within that station area and market.

I'm just excited to see so much enthusiasm in Ryan, that I won't have to worry when I leave the role as director next year. Plus, I think Ryan would be good at TV producing, too, if he gave it a try...

Someone to Admire...

I've thought long and hard about who I look up to from the previous graduating classes of Westminster. I still keep in contact with a number of the broadcasting alumni as well as others, but one person stuck out in my mind, as a mentor and someone I admired and still admire.

During my first day of Fresh Start at Westminster College, I met Liz Farry. She was one of my Fresh Start leaders. Liz made me feel welcome and comfortable here at school right away; plus when she found out I was a first year broadcasting major, she offered to help me with anything.

I remember the first time I contacted Liz...about how to use something in the audio lab. I was having some trouble, and she said it would be fine to meet me and go over some audio basics. In addition, Liz was the person I interviewed for one of my audio projects.

A couple months into the semester, I was nervous about doing my first radio shift, but Liz came to the rescue; she offered to let me come and watch her during one of her radio shifts, which I did. Not surprisingly, I looked to Liz's work as an example, something to strive for later down the line.

This was especially true when I started working for the TV station. Although Liz graduated a couple years before me, I still looked to her packages and stand ups as a basis. I wanted to be as comfortable on camera as she was, so I kept trying and trying. And another thing about Liz was that she was constantly involved and busy with broadcasting...take a look at her senior year, and that's what I'm living right now.

Not only did Liz work hard at Westminster, she also interned with NBC Universal in New York for a couple summers, which I thought was really exciting. This helped propel me to search diligently to find an internship of my own at a TV station.

Perhaps, one of the main reasons I especially admire Liz is because she wasn't afraid to change her career goals once she got out into the "real world." Although she was "Miss TV" in college, she now works as the communications specialist for the Girl Scouts in the Chesapeake Bay area. Right now, I'm trying to decide what I would like to do as a career, and I could see myself doing something a little bit different than the broadcasting "norm." So, thanks Liz!

The Journey of a Feature Reporter...

It's almost time to wrap up my capstone class by presenting my senior project to my professors, family and friends. I've finally got it squared away! So here's the details...everyone is invited!

What: Nicky Piszczor’s Senior Capstone Presentation:
“Reliving History through Feature Storytelling”
Date: Monday, November 17, 2008
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Witherspoon Maple Room
McKelvey Campus Center
Westminster College
New Wilmington, PA

In the broadcasting world, good feature storytelling captures the human interest. Sometimes television reporters are so busy trying to get the “hard news,” that they miss out on the opportunities for captivating stories that are right in front of them everyday.

I will attempt to break this routine by taking on the role of a one-man-band feature videographer and reporter to learn more about the interesting historical stories of Lawrence County. I will explore the art of feature storytelling and create/produce three to four television feature stories, which will air on the County Line every other week. I plan to make this a special story segment on the County Line!

At the end of my project, I combine my stories to create a short film, entitled “Lawrence County: A Community Rooted in History.” This film will encompass the major historical time periods in Lawrence County: from when the Native Americans roamed the land, to the official founding of Lawrence County, to the Civil War period, to the industrial world and beyond. This area has interesting facts, just waiting to be uncovered; it's my job to bring them to the surface!

The short film will take a glimpse at Lawrence County’s deep historical roots throughout the years. Many different Native American tribes roamed the lands and lived along the waterways thousands of years ago. Then, European settlers moved west across Pennsylvania and decided Lawrence County was a great place to call home.

These settlers were strong in their dedication to this country; residents fought to protect their freedom. Lawrence County also was deeply involved in the abolitionist movement as a major stop along the Underground Railroad.

The mid to late 1900s shows a modern day community dependent upon industry and agriculture. Today, Lawrence County continues to thrive with its beautiful Amish countryside, McConnell's Mills State Park, Cascade Park and various other attractions and events; plus, Lawrence County is home to the Fireworks Capital of America.

Throughout my project, I will seek advice from my contacts at Newschannel 5, the Lawrence County Historical Society and other local historians in the county. In addition, I will expand my work to cover the web and the radio, by developing stories for both. Plus, I'll post my TV stories on this blog! Come see how a feature videographer and reporter redefines the art of storytelling!

Here's my first story on the Native Americans!



Is This What I Want To Do When I Grow Up?

With only one and a half semesters to go here at Westminster College, I've started thinking more about what exactly I would like to do when I graduate. My generic answer used to be, "I want to work in TV, probably producing or reporting. Or maybe radio, I like that, too." But now it's time to get serious. I mean it's hard to know where the road will take me or how many times I'll change my mind, but I think for right now, I've finally found something I would love to do for a living, a career that would make me want to get up every morning with a happy outlook on life.

Basically, what I want to do is what Rick Sebak does. He's a film director and producer, based out of Pittsburgh, Pa., that makes unusual, but interesting documentaries, stories, and films for local public TV stations, especially PBS affiliates such as WQED. According to imdb.com, Sebak is the "inventor of the public television nostalgia documentary." He calls his cultural stories, "scrapbook documentaries."

At the beginning of his career, Sebak worked at the South Carolina Educational Television Network. While he was working there, he created the award-winning documentary, "Shag," about the official state dance of South Carolina. Later, Sebak went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Soon after, he moved to Pittsburgh, where he's made more than 30 documentaries and short films, including "The Mon, The Al, & The O," "Pittsburgh A to Z," "An Ice Cream Show," and "A Cemetery Special."

Sebak shows his audience a "scoop of life" in each of his stories, through colorful sounds, images, and narration. He takes the feature storytelling route, just like I'm trying to do with my senior capstone project. I want to show my audience what it was like to live in all different time periods in Lawrence County. Plus, I would love to do some traveling for my job; plus I would meet unique and interesting people every day. It sounds like an exciting lifestyle and career, and I've always loved PBS programming.

So, maybe this is what I want to do when I grow up?

Tribute...

I'm reflecting a lot this semester for capstone, looking back at who has shaped and influenced my life and my career goals. Many of those people during my time at college have included my professors. This week I'll take a turn back to the beginning of my college journey to someone who has helped me a lot along the way and given me numerous opportunities to expand my knowledge of the broadcasting business.

My first broadcast professor was Dr. David Barner, known to the broadcast crowd and on the air as the one and only, Dr. B. The very first broadcast class I needed to take was Audio Production, that's Dr. B's "thing." He loves radio; it's his passion. And, his teaching style definitely showed it. I remember one of the first days of class, he handed out, "Dr. B's Tips for Success in Broadcasting." Ever since then, I've tried to keep his advice in mind, and throughout my experience

here at Westminster and during my internships and part-time jobs, this information has proven true.

One of the most important tips was "don't wait to get involved." And so, I didn't. The first semester, I was trying out the remote crew and a couple DJ shifts on Titan Radio in the evening. The following semester, I challenged myself by working on radio news and improving my radio personality, so that I sounded more conversational. Listening to Dr. B especially helped me in that area. Then, during my second year, I jumped right into TV stuff, too. I went out with Aidan Mewha, a previous producer and reporter for our TV college show, The County Line. She showed me how to film and how to put together a package. After that, I was on a roll, trying out new angles for different TV stories. Plus, my roommate Kristin and I started producing and DJing the Covenant Christian radio show on Sunday nights. Which brings me to another one of Dr. B's tips: "the best way to learn is to just do it yourself."

Now that doesn't mean you have to do EVERYTHING yourself; you need to learn to work well with other colleagues, but what I basically mean is that you don't know what any thing is like until you actually experience it for yourself. So, the following year, I took the next step, thanks to Dr. B's recommendation. Toward the end of Broadcast Journalism, which focused on radio news, I applied for a part-time position at WKST, an AM news talk station in New Castle. Dr. B knew the program director, so he passed along my name to him. All I had to do was send Ken Hlebovy at WKST a resume sample. Ken was impressed; so after a short interview, I got the job. My hard work had paid off, but I never would have known about the position at all, if it wasn't for Dr. B.

During my last year at college, Dr. B continues to give me many opportunities to learn and to grow. He asked me to serve as the News Director for Titan Radio this year and to return as the Director for Coach's Corner, a half-hour sports interview show. This short blog is just a small way to say thanks!

LIVE at Noon!

I think it's true that you don't really experience the career world until you're part of it. That's the way I felt, after my internship this past summer with Newschannel 5. No matter how much practice I received at school, producing, reporting, directing, and anchoring, I wasn't able to get the full effect and feel the pressure of a newsroom and the always pending deadline!

Everyone I met at Newschannel 5 was very helpful and understanding; however, I definitely learned the most from the Noon News Producer, with whom I worked with every morning, for a good chunk of the day...if not the whole day. Ellen McGregor has been producing live shows for many years, and her experience showed in the quality of the shows she produced.

I respect people who take pride in the work they do, instead of just doing it because it's their job. Ellen made sure the show was set as best she could (although you couldn't always get everything done ahead of time, because of breaking news!); she tailored to every last detail. Ellen was precise and to the point in her writing, but considered her local audience.

Not only was Ellen great at what she did, she gave me plenty of opportunities to explore this avenue, myself. Within the first couple weeks, I was writing scripts that the anchors would read: interview segments, VOs, VO/SOTs, anchor intros to packages, and much more. Also, she made sure I got to go out with a couple different reporters (sometimes there wasn't really room for me in the vehicle, but she worked it out!) And before long, she even had me producing a majority of the show one day: picking the stories, finding the video, picking the soundbites, etc. And I sat in master control, playing the role of producer one day, too. Ellen made me realize that I could do producing for a career, if I really wanted to, and that's worth more than I can express.

Granted, I still don't know how she does it every day, day after day...but it's thrilling, exciting, and ultimately fun! I love producing and reporting, and Ellen definitely helped me develop a sense of confidence in the newsroom.

It's All About Good Storytelling...

A number of classes have benefited me on my career path and with my senior project during my time here at Westminster College. In fact, I find it hard to choose just one broadcasting class that I would reference as the “best.” However, that’s not what I’m choosing to blog about, and here are my reasons why…

I love storytelling and, consequently, writing. Every since I was young, all I wanted to be when I “grew up” was a writer. As soon as I started to read books, I began writing my own stories. And although I never finished them, I knew what I loved to do. So when I came to college, I started to wonder, what will I do with my life? I didn’t really see myself making it as a “professional author,” at least not right away, so I turned to broadcasting as a way to apply my love for writing into a practical field.

Class after class, I still wondered, did I make the right decision? I liked broadcasting, and I seemed to have a knack for it, but I still felt like I wasn’t following my “life-long goal.” Now, granted plans change, but I still wanted to do something with writing.

During the fall semester of my junior year, I had to take a cluster class. This involves two classes from different disciplines that focus on the same subject area. The one I took studied translation, and the class that I would like to talk about that influenced me was the English side of it, called “Translating America.” Dr. Swerdlow, an accomplished writer and poet, was the professor for the class.

Throughout the course, we studied all kinds of poetry and discussed social issues/questions about life in America. We also reflected on a variety of questions about these subjects during the term and kept journals to explain our thoughts and answers. The class encouraged me to think openly and freely about the world and the people of America.

Although, this wasn’t a broadcasting class, I still think it helped me tremendously with my career goals and my senior project. This class reminded me that good broadcasters still need to write well, and although poets write in a different style, there’s still room to be creative and inventive with your writing, delivery, expression, and use of sound throughout a story. Just like any poet, a broadcaster must be in tune with the world, attending to its every detail, so as to report what they see, what they hear, to report reality, so that everyone can feel like they were there in that moment. In addition, I will complete a handful of feature stories about the history of Lawrence County for my senior project, which gives me the opportunity to be a little more creative with my writing. I just need to open my mind.

In my opinion, broadcasting is all about good storytelling…

Expect the Unexpected...

This semester has challenged me a lot: physically, mentally, emotionally...and I've learned so much about myself. That was the major goal in our Senior Capstone class: not only did we work hard, we discovered more about who we are and what we want to do with our lives in the future. As a class, we explored the broadcast business, capstone projects, and even the Amazing Race TV show application.

I liked how our class was themed around this being our own personal, "Amazing Race." Our professor, Mr. Weaver, had each student in the class pair up with someone inside the class or outside the class and go through the application process. Each partner had to fill out a paper application that included a number of personal questions. But in the end, it made me realize more about who I am as a person and as a professional. In addition, I learned more about how my partner Dave and I complement each other well.

Dave and I also had to make a video as part of our application. While many people in our class went for the exaggerated, funny approach...I decided to do something different. Maybe it would even make us stand out to the judges of the show...I used an honest approach. Dave and I both spoke from the heart about our relationship and why we would make a great team for the Amazing Race show. I had a great time putting together the video, and I think that maybe we have a shot.

Granted at first, I wasn't too keen about being on the show, but after thinking it through from all I've gone through this semester, I'm pretty sure I can handle anything...and I think Dave and I would give the show a chance if we were chosen.

But that was just one element to our senior class...it was about personal discovery, but I think even more importantly, it was about discovering who we are as a class too. As seniors, we will be the leaders in the department next year...all the underclassmen are looking up to us as role models to guide them in this broadcasting world. We have big shoes to fill...which brings me to my next reflection about this semester...

As the semester went on, we debated and talked about our senior capstone projects for months, and now most of us have found something we will enjoy doing, but that will also benefit the department and teach the younger generation. For me, I decided to stick with two things I love doing: reporting and producing.

I will be developing a series of non-dated feature stories surrounding the history of Lawrence and Mercer Counties for our TV show, the County Line. I will network with the Lawrence/Mercer County Historical Societies as well as people in the business to create the best stories possible and at the end of the semester as part of my senior presentation, I will produce a final show that features all the stories collectively. I may even develop some radio and online features from the stories I do, so my project becomes more multimedia.

I'm excited about this project, and I think it will naturally flow from my internship at Newschannel 5 this summer, as I'm making this internship part of my capstone class experience. During this internship, I hope to learn more about reporter storytelling and producing shows. This knowledge is just what I need to work on my project next semester. And looking ahead, I will be constantly networking in the business while I'm at Newschannel 5 as well.

So what underlying idea can I take away from my Senior Capstone class this semester? I think I've come to realize that in this business, you need to EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED. Just like filling out the Amazing Race application or making the video that went with it, you need to be prepared for anything, because so much can change in a second! I don't expect my internship to be predictable or easy. I expect to be challenged so I can grow as a person and as a broadcaster.

Plus, as an end to this class, our class will be pairing up with our partners to take on our own "Amazing Race" throughout the town of New Wilmington...and who knows what's in store for that...

Producing...It's Not as Easy as It Looks!

I love producing...I've definitely learned that from all the broadcasting classes I've taken at Westminster College and more importantly all the experience I've gained working in a broadcast atmosphere at school and outside of school. I love using my creativity and talents to develop shows that are organized, interesting, and intriguing. Producing involves taking a bunch of little stories or segments and fitting them together...making the whole show flow together by adding transitions and including all kinds of elements to the show. But it's more than that...producing means you're in charge, you run the show, you figure out how everything fits together...plus what content the show will have in the first place.

When I first came to college, I thought my ultimate goal was to be a television reporter for a local TV news station. And I still would love to do that...but at the same time, producing is another area I'm interested in for a job. Perhaps...one of main reasons I became interested in producing is because one of my professors, Mr. Weaver, kept telling my classmates and I, in a number of classes that there are more producing jobs out there than anything else in the broadcasting business. I want to be prepared for that atmosphere after I graduate when I'm searching for a job.

This past week I helped another broadcast student in TV practicum, Nate Dodd, produce the County Line, the college's weekly TV news magazine show. It consists of news and feature stories from around Lawrence and Mercer Counties. I was super excited to pass along my knowledge of producing and help out Nate. We got together the night before the show to figure out a basic rundown of the show...and it wasn't too difficult. Most of the stories we had provided for a natural flow throughout the show. Nate and I also picked out readers to do, plugged in the times on the rundown sheet, sent graphics to our art director, watched and kept track of the packages, helped the anchors write scripts, and just made sure everything ran smoothly.

Besides one package not being finished until the last second, the show went pretty well overall...and really, last minute stories helped both Nate and I feel the pressure that many producers feel every day in the real broadcast TV news world. TV news stations want to be on top of everything and bring their viewers the latest breaking news. Also, we made sure to honor our group of seniors that are graduating this year...I'm going to miss them! I've learned so much from all of them; it's thanks to them that I've learned so much about producing, reporting, directing, anchoring, and so much more! Good luck seniors!! And in one year, I will be at the same place in my life...maybe looking for a job in TV or radio producing...

The Next Step...

Now it's time to take the next step in my capstone class as the semester draws to a close. This past Thursday, my fellow classmates and I had to present our final senior projects to the rest of the broadcast department. We had been discussing possible projects with one of our professors for weeks, but now each of us needed to have our final projects approved by the rest of the department's professors.

It was serious...and the department heads meant business. I can't blame them...I mean, this is what we will all spend our entire semester working on next fall. And really...I liked how the broadcast department faculty were critical, because it helped all of us to focus our topics...plus that's how it is in the broadcast business, anyways.

To be honest, I had one idea in mind, but while listening to other people present and to the professors' responses, I changed my topic slightly before I went up to pitch my project. Originally, I wanted to focus on the growing phenomenon of "infotainment" in broadcast reporting (especially since I will be working with a news and entertainment show for my internship at Newschannel 5 this summer...), but I really wasn't sure what value I would gain from doing a project on that...besides I think that topic lent itself towards doing a research paper.

Instead I decided to focus on the art of feature storytelling...what elements make up a good feature story, how do reporters seek to capture the human interest, what kind of subjects make the most interesting feature stories, etc. In addition, feature stories are non-dated, making one done well, a great addition to my resume tape!

After much deliberation, I decided that I would explore this area of reporting for my senior project, and at the same time, I would create a collection of feature stories revolving around Lawrence and Mercer Counties to be aired on the County Line. One professor, Mr. Corso, said I should develop a theme...right now I'm considering surrounding the stories around historical landmarks and facts about these two counties or have my own "Made in Lawrence/Mercer County..." segment, which features the different products made in this area...or maybe I will come up with something different. My working title right now is "Recapturing Human Interest through Feature Storytelling."

Basically, I want to create my own feature TV segment on the County Line and brand it...make it my own, with an open and everything! Plus, I can re-purpose my project for the web (by creating my own Web site for the segment, posting it in conjunction with the County Line, or posting the stories on my blog) and for the radio by creating a special audio version of my stories for Dr. B's Sunday morning shows on Titan Radio.

That may sound like a lot already...but I don't want to forget my love for TV producing with this project. At the end of the semester, I plan to compile my stories to make one longer video about Lawrence/Mercer Counties (maybe even debut it somewhere like the Lawrence County Historical Society?) Right now, I'm caught between reporting and producing (actually, I still like a lot of other aspects of broadcasting, but this project intrigues me the most...), but this project will allow me the opportunity to expand my skills in both areas. Next semester will be a busy one, but I'm up for the challenge!!

Under Pressure...

"Pressure pushing down on me. Pressing down on you no man ask for. Under pressure..."

Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines...it's the nature of the broadcast business. Reporters, producers, and anchors are always under this kind of unnerving pressure to get the story out fast...before anyone else leaks out the details. Each station wants to be first and to be the best. While this is kind of sad...it's the reality of the media world today...as viewers and listeners expect immediacy.

I felt the pressure of the deadline this week when I completed my deadline project for my BC 312 TV Reporting class. One of the assignments for this class required every student to find a TV story, shoot the cover video and the interview, to capture the footage, to write the script, to edit the package, and to dub the story onto an air tape....all in one day (actually in approximately 10 to 12 hours I think...)

The idea behind the assignment was to have each student experience the pressure of the deadline like any reporter would in a real TV market. Needless to say...I felt the stress and the pressure (partially because the computers decided to act up)...but overall I was happy with how my story turned out in the end.

I chose to do my TV package on the IRS Criminal Division. A group of their special agents came to my school this past Wednesday for the "Westminster College Project," a simulation day which allowed 18 students to take on the role of a special agent for the day.

I called the head IRS special agent Andrew Hromoko the day before the event to set up an interview time. He was very helpful...Mr. Hromoko gave me a tentative agenda for the day and told me what to expect throughout day.

I woke up early that morning and got to the campus center at 8:30. First, Mr. Hromoko showed me the three different cases the students would be working on and where to get the best video. Then, I interviewed Mr. Hromoko. I learned later he was rather impressed with the questions I asked him. The filming went extremely well...the agents even set up a fake drug bust on campus which was the best part of the day. I loved filming this because it made me feel like I was on the scene filming breaking news. In fact, one of the Youngstown TV stations, WFMJ, was there to film for that part of the day.

I also got to film the F.A.T.S. training simulator, where the students were put in a variety of hostile situations and had to decide whether to shoot with their fake gun or not. This device is used to train federal law enforcement officers.

After I got some more cover video and shot my stand up with Chuck's help, I set off to edit...I screened my video and captured what I needed....then I sat down to write my story. This had to be the hardest part...I was already pretty tired, and I really wanted to use the diamond effect in this story. Thankfully, one of the students I interviewed was thinking of becoming an IRS special agent, so I worked that into my story.

The only main problem I encountered was when I went to add in my VO parts to the story, and the computer would not recognize my hard drive (or anybody else's, believe me I tried...) Chuck couldn't figure it out either, but thankfully after I restarted the computer a couple of times...it worked! I finished my editing...and called my professor to tell him my story was done.

I just felt good that I could do it...that maybe someday I will be able to make it in this broadcast world...plus Mr. Hromoko gave me his business card, and Chuck told me my package and the raw footage from my story is going to Washington, D.C., to the headquarters of the IRS! It's been a very exciting week...

Advice from the Field...

One of the best ways to learn about the broadcasting business is to do an internship and to gain experience in the field...and the next best thing is to hear advice from people who have been in the business for years.

Since the start of my internship is more than a month away, I'm still waiting on that personal experience, but last Friday my Broadcast Journalism II class had the opportunity to listen to a reporter in the business, plus get some feedback on the stories we've been working on for the County Line during this semester.

Reporter Amy Marcinkiewicz (from the Pittsburgh NBC affiliate, WPXI) stopped by for about an hour in between stories. She was up in the area that day because she had just covered a story at Slippery Rock University about Chelsea Clinton coming to the school to talk to students that afternoon. Then...Amy was heading back to work on at least one more story that day...maybe two. Needless to say, she was busy, so she was frank, honest, and to-the-point with her comments...but they all made sense.

I decided to show her my Mini-Horse Package...which you can watch in following post. I had cleaned up the story a little before showing it to her (and I will upload the better version soon), but overall, Amy liked the story...she felt I had all the important elements (compelling and well-shot video, nat sound, good writing, etc.), but she mentioned I could have done a better stand up to help show how short the mini-horses really are and stuck it in the middle somewhere. Also, Amy thought I needed more makeup...I am pretty fair-skinned to begin with, so that's something I'm going to need to work on for future stories. However, what made me happy was that she said the story was resume-worthy, especially since the story was non-dated.

Amy also had some helpful general advice from the field to share with the whole class. For example, some of the comments I benefited from included using the diamond effect when it comes to any story that involves some bigger issue. Showing how a situation affects one person can grab the audience's attention quicker and make them stay tuned in to the story. Also, the story has the potential for human-interest and appears non-dated, so it can be used on a resume tape. Amy also stressed the importance of using compelling video at the beginning of any story...plus good writing is a must.

Amy's visit I think reiterated to me that the broadcast business can be brutal...and you have to be a go-getter in this field to go anywhere. Her "advice from the field" was useful...and I plan to put her suggestions into action. Overall, I think Amy pointed out that the best stories are the ones that stand out and endure.

Building Character...

My experiences this semester have helped to build my character as a broadcaster and as a person. I have learned how to deal with extreme pressure, how to function on little sleep (if that's really possible), how to produce a good TV story, and how to approach a lot of difficult situations.

One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of, however, is how I've grown in my abilities as a storyteller...through the video medium. In particular, my Broadcast Journalism II class has allowed me the opportunity to create more TV packages to add to my resume...by doing this, I've had the time to develop my skills and to travel down new avenues in my stories.

For example, I've been experimenting with my stand ups. I try to make them more interesting by using props, by using appropriate movement, by looking at a particular subject from a different angle and much more. In addition, I've been using more close-up shots in my stories. I've been utilizing the tripod more to get better shots overall...and most importantly, I've really been writing to my video. However, I've realized it's best to start writing, or at least visualizing, your story in the field, so you can get the shots you need to write to your video.

Although, all of these considerations are important and essential to good storytelling...one piece of advice has helped me more than ever: the practice of building characters. Just like in any good novel or movie, characters make the story what it is; one can't tell a good story without good characters. Sometimes, I think news storytellers forget this element when producing a TV package. The may shoot compelling video or talk about a big event, but personally I think the stories that capture a person's attention the most are those of human interest...with characters that reach out to the soul and to the heart.

So far, this semester, I've produced three TV packages...with one more in the works. My third package was by far the best I've ever done. I visited a farm in West Middlesex...where one lady raises and breeds miniature horses. Not only did I have compelling and cute video, but Elaine Jones was a character. She was so devoted to her mini-horses, and all her other pets for that matter, that she considered them a part of her family. She was a true character...and that came across in the interview I did with her. Besides, I thought the name of her company was so cute: Jones' Mini-Whinnies! Check out my story on mini-horses and let me know what you think!

The Search is Over...for Now...

After updating my resume, gathering my references, and going to interviews...my summer plans are finally set. I was so worried about what I was going to do this summer when a number of opportunities came my way all at the same time. I was relieved to know that I had choices, but it was hard to make a decision...especially since this is the last summer before I graduate. Just learning from other broadcast majors at Westminster College and their past experiences, I realized that a powerful internship the summer before graduation can lead to a possible job right out of college...or at least it will look good on a resume when looking for jobs elsewhere.

After much deliberation...I decided to take the internship at Newchannel 5 in Cleveland, working for the noon news. I went to an interview when I was home during spring break. Besides not knowing where to park, the whole experience went rather well. First, I met with the internship coordinator who wrote down some of my general education and experience information. Then, we went down to meet with the Noon News Producer for Newschannel 5, Ellen McGregor. It wouldn't be fair to say I wasn't nervous, but once I sat down and started talking to her, I felt pretty comfortable. Ellen was really nice and asked pertinent questions...such as what I consider when producing a show, what experience I have in regards to producing and reporting, and why I was interested in this internship. I answered the questions honestly and as best I could. At the end, she said she would contact me by Friday of that week. Also, before I left the station, Ellen showed me around the studio and the newsroom.

The week seemed to drag on forever, and when Friday rolled around, I was checking my e-mail every 30 minutes. By the end of the day, I was pretty bummed...I was fairly certain that Ellen would contact me either way, but now I wasn't so sure. After the weekend passed, I wasn't expecting anything...but a surprise came my way on Monday when an e-mail showed up in my inbox from Ellen. She said she was sorry that she didn't get back to me right away, but that I had gotten the internship!! I will be working three days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday) from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. My responsibilities include helping with the production of the show, writing some news, going out with photographers and assisting them, greeting and making the guests feel comfortable, and much more. I think this internship will be a great learning experience into how a television station runs in a bigger network area.

Also, I think this will help me to figure out what I want to do as a career after I graduate. Right now, I'm split between radio and television. I had an internship with the Fish radio station last summer, and now I can gain TV experience with Newschannel 5. I was rather proud of myself because I was the first intern Ellen contacted. She may bring in another intern to work the other two days, but nothing is certain yet.

Funny thing is that right before I sent an e-mail back to Ellen telling her I would take the internship...I checked my mail at school and found a letter from WKYC, the NBC news station affiliate in Cleveland. The letter said that the station would be conducting interviews this coming week for their internships and the I should call to schedule one!! I had sent in my resume to WKYC before the beginning of the year and was surprised to hear back from them as well.

In the end, I decided to just stick with Newschannel 5, the ABC affiliate. I knew that the internship at 5 was a for sure thing, and most of the WKYC internships were full-time positions, 40 hours per week. At least with Newschannel 5, I will have the opportunity to baby-sit two days a week and make some money to pay for expenses this summer. However, I'm going to contact WKYC and thank them for the invitation to interview...because you never know where you may end up in the future....

So...for now...the search is over, but I know that not too far off, I'm going to be busy looking for jobs that I could do after I graduate. I have a feeling that senior year will fly by, and soon enough I'm be back in the "real" world...until then, I'm content to intern and learn as much as I can from those who have been in the business for years!!