Last semester was my first real exposure to any time of news production. I went into the class with very little background knowledge. Since then I have learned a substantial amount about what it takes to produce a news show. Last semester I learned how to interview people and how to work with equipment in the field. This semester I spent much more time in the actual studio. This semester in Practicum was much smoother than last year. I learned much more, especially with the new studio. Last semester I worked more on Wellness, rather than the news show. This year I got to do multiple tasks in the studio. One of my favorite things to do is run the teleprompter. You have to run it at the perfect speed to not go too fast, but not too slow either. I also got to work with the camera a bit. Finding a good shot in the studio was somewhat difficult with the strange shaped desk and decals on the back wall, but we did it. With the new studio setup, lighting was also an issue. If there was too much light the reporter or anchor would appear overexposed, and visa versa. Finding a good balance of the light was necessary for a successful shot.
One of my favorite parts this semester was the entertainment panel Ashley, TJ, Olivia, and Dion did. It was a great experience because Rachel showed me how to work the switcher. This is not something we get to do regularly on FSC Today.
This semester I also got to polish up on writing readers. I learned they only have to be about 10-15 seconds each and should have the most important information in a quick and snappy delivery. Writing readers also let me practice what I learned in Broadcast Writing. Writing readers for a news show is very different than writing anything for a newspaper, because it must be in Broadcast Style. Writing readers also taught me that deadlines are very important. Writing for FSC Today also showed me the importance in connecting and transitioning stories properly. You can’t go from a story about a new homeless shelter opening for the holidays to a story about a child being murdered. Making some kind of connection is necessary.
Teamwork during production is vital. Team work is key because one person cannot be anchoring, recording, working the camera, and doing the teleprompter. It’s just not possible. Ironically enough, communication is key in the communications department. Everyone must be on the same page with what the end result should be. Having strong leaders like Rachel and Olivia producing the news show makes all the difference.
I really enjoyed Practicum this semester because of the variety in the show. This semester we had sports, entertainment, wellness, and general news. I anticipate what is to come for the Communication Department within the next semester.
