INTERN LIFE AT WTOP

WHAT I DID:

In the summer of 2012, I interned at WTOP News Radio in Washington, D.C. Over the course of the summer, I wrote 22 articles for the station's website that included broadcast pieces that had previously aired, that I optimized into a suitable format for the Web. Some of the pieces I wrote were featured on the website of WTOP's sister station, WFED. During that summer, my big intern project focused on an Olympic sport. I chose to focus on fencing, and created a unique story for the station's website, complete with a photo gallery.

I primarily worked with the Web department, where I learned some HTML coding skills and sharpened my online writing skills, while brushing up on my AP Style skills.

I also accompanied reporters when they covered various stories, from a White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Community Action Summit to the start of a 24-hour motorcycle ride for PTSD awareness. I did some "man-on-the-street" reporting, where I took to the streets of the District to ask citizens about their thoughts on stories happening in their communities. On top of all of that, I learned the ins-and-outs of being a better reporter just from working with the various WTOP staffers. I also used field recording technology to help the reporters catch quality sound bytes for their stories.

As an intern, I also experienced what it was like to be in a newsroom during busy, breaking news days, as well as taking some overnight shifts, to get the full "journalist" experience. I was in the WTOP Newsroom when the Supreme Court handed down their decision about the Affordable Care Act on June 28, 2012. I helped gather information about power outages, ice shortages and reactions about the severe derecho that hit the Washington area just a few days after the Affordable Care Act decision by the Supreme Court, which also gave my my first glimpse into how to handle natural disasters. I also remember how somber the atmosphere was at the station on July 20, 2012 after the Aurora, Colorado shooting occurred. These are just a few examples of news stories that have stayed with me over the years, from my short time as an intern with the station. 

MY WORK: