I’ve been in Cedar Rapids and working at Iowa’s News Now for a full month. The
boxes are unpacked, the training is over and I’m living my brand new, mid western, life.
This spring was so hard for me, as I’m sure it was for many others. I never felt a sense of overwhelming happiness because I couldn’t get over all that I lost. While I was thrilled to be starting a new job in a new city, I was nervous about moving 12 hours away. I was scared of being alone and lonely and the stresses and anxiety that came with a new job.
I’m here today to talk about how this past month has gone.
First things first: work. I cannot say enough good things about the environment of the news room. I felt welcomed from the moment I first stepped inside the station. I think on my first day everyone said to me "if you have any questions, please let me know." I never felt intimidated, which was something I was nervous about. I think feeling comfortable is extremely important, especially with all that I have to learn.
College definitely prepared me for most technicalities of TV news, but I still have a
lot to learn. Stepping into an MMJ position I had to learn a new camera, editing software, time management and so so so much more, It was really overwhelming at first. Honestly, I'm still a little overwhelmed. And I'm not going to lie, I dont feel super confident in my abilities right now. I've been struggling a lot with my camera. You name it, I've probably struggled with it: white balance, focus, audio, I've messed it all up at some point this month. Its frustrating, but I try not to get upset with myself. I remind myself constantly that I am learning. No one in the newsroom expects me to be perfect, everyone understands that I am just out of college. We've all been there. No one is yelling, but rather lending a hand to help. And thats another thing: ask for help. For some off reason, I was so worried people would thing I'm stupid if I asked silly questions. NO ONE IS THINKING THAT. It is so much better to ask questions and get it right the first time, than to sit there starring at a computer screen for an hour because you cant find the right folder for something, trust me, I've learned. Where I am right now is okay, I'm growing to be a better journalist everyday, but I will say, I am looking forward to the day when I look back at these moments and laugh. Today is not that day.
Things in Iowa have been going so much better than I could have ever expected. I was so nervous about being lonely, but I rarely find myself at home. I've made a really great bond with another reporter Emily, and one of our meteorologists, Sara. The 3 of us have so many good laughs on and off the clock. I've been keeping myself busy by exploring the area on my days off and I even joined a soccer league with other co-workers. For the first time in a while, my heart is overwhelmed with happiness and I'm having a really great time here in Cedar Rapids!
Also if youre interested in my work: go like my professional facebook page or follow my twitter to see how the process is going!!
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