How Far I've Come

As the semester winds down, it’s only fitting that I take a look back at these last sixteen weeks. I cannot believe how far I’ve come. I am very proud of the newscasts my team has produced!

Halfway through the semester, I set goals for myself. So now it’s time to hold my self-accountable.

I wanted to be better organized throughout the day, which I think I definitely improved on. As a lead producer, I coordinate with so many people and have an enormous amount of information coming at me. For the first few weeks of the semester, I used a different method to organize everything each time I was lead producer. I’ve learned that the most efficient way for me is to keep a running list in my notebook of what interviews and video we have for each story, organized in the same order as on the rundown. It also works wonders to have my notebook with me at all times to jot down notes and reminders as I go through the day. Since getting this method down, my shows have been better and the day has run smoother.

I also decided that I need to be better leader. I realized that as a producer, I am a role model in the newsroom and I have a responsibility to guide the MJs and reporters to make sure the entire team is on the same page. I think I was better able to help everyone in the newsroom as the weeks progressed.

Lastly, the most important goal of all was to communicate more with my fellow producers Layne and Irene. The newsroom gets hectic and it can be hard to keep up with what everyone else is working on. In the beginning of the semester, I would find myself getting so focused on my own tasks that I forgot to check in with the rest of my team. When we don’t have mini-meetings throughout the day, mistakes are made. From making incorrect graphics to not ordering the best video, communication is key to having the best newscast. I think my team has come a long way. We communicate constantly throughout the day and our last few near-flawless shows have really reflected our great teamwork.

When I look back, I am amazed by how much I have learned and how far I’ve come in such a small amount of time. I don’t want the semester to end. Next week is our last show and I am lead producing. I cannot wait to give it my all and go out with a bang!