My Reporting Internship at Ottawa News Network
Experience Information
Employer: Ottawa News Network
Job Title: Reporter Intern
Major: Multimedia Journalism
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Ottawa News Network is a local news organization that covers stories happening in Ottawa County and surrounding communities in West Michigan. The organization has reporters and interns who research, interview sources, and write news stories. Intern work with supervisors who help guide them through the reporting process.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
During my internship, I researched local news stories, contacted sources, conducted phone interviews, and wrote articles. One of my stories focused on water levels in Lake Michigan and how they affect local communities. I am also working on a story about new developments in Allendale, Georgetown Township, and Coopersville. I have interviewed township officials and gathered information for my articles.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I improved my interviewing, research, writing, and communication skills. I learned how to reach out to officials, ask important questions, gather accurate information, and put everything together into a news story. I also learned more about how local news reporting works.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part was getting to interview different people and learn about things happening in the community. I enjoyed being able to work on real news stories and see how much work goes into reporting. It made me feel more confident about becoming a journalist.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This internship has made me even more interested in becoming a news reporter and eventually a news anchor. It has given me real experience in journalism and helped me understand what reporters do every day. I want to continue improving my skills and hopefully work in a television newsroom after graduation.
Internship Format
Remote/Virtual