That Next Chapter

Producing has taught me A LOT... A lot about myself like how I work as a team, how I manage my time, how I judge news… the list can go on and on. I was originally so scared to take this class, but after reflecting on the skills I have learned it was one of the best decisions. 

The thought of graduating USC and moving on into the workforce makes me nervous, but since taking this class I feel more confident I know I want to be in this industry. I have always been on the other side of the news desk being sent out to interview people and working on a single story. Now the tables are turned and not only do I have to be in charge of a list of stories, I have to keep track of everyone working on them. 

Being a reporter is my dream job. Although I am not going out every week packaging, I feel producing has made me a better reporter. Now I know when I cover a story I will think from a producer's point of view. What will be the best broll? What is the best SOT? Would an ANCG or VO be better to tell this part of the story? By having news judgment skills I know I will take these with me forever and apply them to every story I do. 

Not only has producing taught me how to cover a story, but it has also taught me to be a good communicator and multi-tasker. There is so much to be done to create a 30-minute newscast and everyone has to be on the same page. Being a producer has helped me be able to juggle many tasks and make sure everyone is clear on what they are doing. I know I will use these skills when I am out in the field to manage time getting broll, setting up interviews, posting tweets, writing, and editing everything together.

It is amazing what you can learn when you look at it from a different perspective.