ABC News Internship

During my internship at ABC News, I had the opportunity to observe journalists, editors, graphic designers, directors, camera operators, and radio productions. Through this opportunity, I learned and gained experience with the ABC systems for newsroom and radio production, recording voice on the radio and editing material, shadowing journalists during interviews and pieces-to-cameras, and researching and writing across all platforms. These experiences helped me understand the workflows and operations of the newsroom and the vital skills I need as a journalist to thrive in the industry.

Example 1: 7 PM News with Jess and Jenny

During my internship at ABC News, I had the opportunity to observe the 7 PM News with Jess and Jenny.

Through this opportunity, I shadowed Tim Christie while he directed the program and showed me the behind-the-scenes workflow. For example, I learned how to create on-screen graphics using AP ENPS and how to auto-queue for Jess and Jenny while they were live. Observing the broadcast live taught me the importance of breathing exercises, articulation, and improvisation when things go wrong. By observing and learning the behind-the-scenes of a live broadcast, I understood the importance of collaboration. Everyone has a part in the production.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to observe journalists create packages for the live broadcast. Under their training, I learned how to generate broadcasting scripts using AP ENPS. I understood the importance of writing with a picture in mind, clear labels, and time stamps to ensure editors can produce the final work as effectively and efficiently. 

Example 2: Piece to Camera

I had the opportunity to observe journalists create pieces-to-cameras for television. Under their guidance, I learned how to make a 15-second piece-to-camera script. This experience taught me the importance of proper pronunciation and articulation in delivering the short piece. Furthermore, I worked closely with a cameraperson who taught me the importance of maintaining a relationship between a camera operator and a journalist, as their work depended on each other.

Reflection

Interning at ABC News has allowed me to develop my professional career, skills, and growth. Their diverse workplace culture, built on the values of integrity, respect, collegiality and innovation, has encouraged me to contribute positively and report stories that reflect Australia's multiculturalism. This experience has fostered a continuous movement of professional growth to an industry and editorial standard. Additionally, the internship has taught me to pace myself as I transition from a learning environment to a career. During my internship, I arrived early and left late to get as much workplace exposure as possible. Doing this has taught me a valuable lesson that I have to learn to ensure I don't burn out and perform the best I can be.