WLNE-TV / ABC6

I had a blast with my internship. The station that I interned for let me get right in the mix from the first day until now. They were not afraid of letting me make mistakes so I could learn on my own, and it was probably the best teaching tool they gave me.

I believe that I met my course goals very well.I went into work on time, (if not early) every shift and I did everything and anything they needed me to do.I asked many many questions when I wanted to know why something was done or didn't understand a process. I also took to heart the quote "dress for the job you want, not for the job you have." It was nice to feel professional each day when I arrived at work.I feel I utilized the hours I spent at Channel 6 and I know that I have learned so much that I would never have known if I have not been given the great opportunity of working there.

I do wish that when I started my internship I was more familiar with the station's mission.For instance, Channel 12 chases accidents -- every accident. Channel 10 does a lot with national news, and we focus on local and feel good stories.When I first started there, every minor accident I heard on the scanner I was calling around and writing down all the information when it was never going to make it past the paper.

I learned so much from my classes that have helped guide me at my internship.They use such a variety of terms at Ch. 6 that I actually knew thanks to my classes. VOSOTs and sound bytes, and roll-cues . . . a lot of words that gave a clear view of how much you need to know before you even step foot into a TV station. I thank GOD I knew what they were talking about, because they expect you to. I also learned how to speak with confidence and maturity to higher officials and co-workers.I realized that in the TV news business you need to have a self confidence and know that you have something to offer to get by, because there is ALWAYS someone more hungry, younger, and more willing to do whatever it takes to get the job in your field (that comes from one of the reporters . . . they have great advice!).

My only advice for students entering or wanting to enter an internship at ABC 6 is to know as much as you can about what you learned in class regarding journalism.You should also do research on the station to know what they are all about, who works there, what their motive is and what points they focus on. Also, don't ever be afraid to ask questions even if you think you know the answer, because most of the people you are working for began their careers as interns themselves and know what its like be in your spot. Most importantly, when you start, be willing to do tasks from calling every police station in the state for rounds to going out with a photographer to get a sound byte. My first time I was sent out to get a sound byte I was terrified because I was now representing a station, but when you feel how great it is to see something you worked on air that night, it is the most amazing feeling you can get.

I loved my internship and would recommend anyone that wants to intern at a station to go to ABC 6.They are great teachers and I feel I could not get a better hands-on experience than I did at Channel.

-- Lauren Bettencourt