Class of 2006

Jessica Dean Reporter KATV (ABC), Little Rock, AR Market Rank 57

ATVN positions and duties:

Anchor, Reporter, Writer/Shooter/Editor, Asst. Director, Floor Manager, Assignment Desk

How did ATVN prepare you for your current job?

Eventhough the whole one-man band thing can be frustrating at times, it really, really prepared me for my first job. I felt so ahead of everyone else because I knew I could pick up the camera and go. Also, meeting deadlines and time management were two lessons learned that helped me out a lot.

What is your advice to aspiring journalists?

Enjoy ‘SC and know that what you’re learning through your classes and ATVN will really help you at your first job. I honestly don’t think I could have been any better prepared than I was when I went to work on the first day. Also, try to find a balance between journalism and your personal life. Life experiences make you a better journalist. 

What are the top three skills college journalism students should be working on in order to be prepared for their first broadcasting job?

Writing! You can really stand out through your writing.
Also, efficiency and multi-tasking...I’ve learned you’ve got to be able to do a lot of things very quickly and well.
Finally, try to become as comfortable as you can with the equipment...chances are that at your first job, you’ll be shooting and editing your own stuff. 

What prepared you most for your current job?

The whole USC Annenberg experience...I know that sounds corny, but in my short experience in the real world, I don’t know of any other school that prepares you the way Annenberg does.

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