Group photo

The Summer class of 2008. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

From left: Scholars Sharahn Boykin, Simmi Aujla and Darryl Smith sign a poster for John Quinn. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

From left: Alejandro Gonzalez, John Quinn and Jose San Mateo. (Photo by Rion Sanders, Summer 2003)

A sweet summer

The idea of moving to a place where I’ve never been (St. Cloud, Minn.) is one of the most exciting aspects of my internship. Knowing my way around a new town feels like a true accomplishment. More important, I get to write for a fine newspaper, and that, my friend, is the icing atop the sweet cake of journalism.

Internship as blessing

I can't wait to get to my internship because I've heard only good things about The Salt Lake Tribune. People who have met staff members tell me they are easy to work with and nice. The director of photography has been great with keeping in touch with me and making me feel comfortable. It has been a blessing to have gotten this internship. And it doesn't hurt that I'll be staying in a vacation condo with a hot tub in a beautiful place.

Orientation’s bittersweet end

From left: Scholars Jose San Mateo, Vanessa Miranda and Darryl Smith. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

After forging many friendships, the end of our internship training program is nearing. It's going to be a painful goodbye, as we may never see some of our friends again, but the connections we've made will last a lifetime. As we travel to our destinations, one thing will rest in our minds as a memorable experience – holding our training inside a top-notch facility such as the Newseum. We are able to say that we are a piece of a prestigious organization with a great history. Never before have I felt so motivated to go out and do what my field requires me to do, and that's to be a journalist, telling nothing but the truth. I plan to try to be the best journalist I can be and to embark on my road to being a "superjournalist."

Casting a wide net

I have many other things to worry about aside from this internship, such as finishing school and graduating, but I am absolutely excited to get started. My first order of business at work will be to introduce myself to every single co-worker and establish a relationship with each person. That includes the photographers, graphic designers, Web editors, even the ad-sales people. I really want to learn how all aspects of the newsroom operate.

A contributing team member

I can't wait to get to know my editor and supervisor and to introduce myself to the rest of the staff of the Springfield News-Leader in Missouri because I have so much to learn from them. Each news department can help me improve my video stories and bring them to the level of professional quality that I want my work to reflect. I like the idea of attending the budget meetings when I can and seeing how the editors run the paper, while also being able to suggest my ideas for stories. I am excited to become a learning and contributing member of the paper.

Wire-service willies

I can’t wait to successfully figure out the AP’s systems for filing images and to truly understand what they will expect of me. I feel nervous about working at a wire service, especially one with high expectations such as the AP. I feel confident in my picture-making skills -- that is not my worry. I worry more about my caption-writing skills and being able to work in the field. Overall, I feel like I will succeed at my internship.

Ready for anything

After this orientation, I feel like I'm ready for anything. All the tips and tricks of the trade we've learned will help propel me to a new level, and I'm going to be sitting anxiously in Providence, R.I., waiting for June 2 to arrive. Though I'm still nervous about beginning at The Providence Journal, these past few days have instilled in me a new sense of hope for success (and the tools to achieve it). In addition, I can't wait to meet even more reporters and editors and begin to receive feedback about my work so I can continue to improve.

A meaningful orientation

I've been to a lot of workshops and conferences throughout the years, and they all have the same criteria: hand out some pencils, talk about plagiarism and putting together your resume, etc., and you end by collecting as many business cards as possible. So when I was told I was going to be at the Freedom Forum, I thought, "OK, same situation -- I'll be bored out of my mind and I’ll leave with a lot of pamphlets I'll never read and information I already know."


A bench in the Newseum's Front Pages gallery, a gift from John and Loie Quinn, is dedicated to all Chips Quinn Scholars. (Photo by Xavier Mascarenas, Summer 2008)

But the Chips Quinn orientation was different. I see myself using some tools, such as "the first five graphs" and "pencil-checking," when I get to the News-Press in Fort Myers, Fla. Many of the mentors and advisers have given me good advice, like establishing goals for myself and discussing them with my editor. Also, the Chips Quinn Scholars program has provided me with an extended family. It’s a family that seems to want me to succeed in this field and their genuine help is encouraging.

Eager to begin

I can't wait to get to my internship and start working on a photo essay. I want to work as much as possible and learn from everybody.

“It’s going to be great”

Detroit is very different from my hometown, which has a population of just over 2,500. The Detroit News also is a step higher from the publications I have been working for during the past 18 months. It will be the largest paper I have worked at and I know there will be tons of people to learn from. I am looking forward to learning about Detroit and its issues, and to proposing story ideas and writing my first story. It’s going to be great.

A little less terrified

Before attending orientation, I was terrified about going to my internship. I'm still terrified, but I no longer see it as an impossible feat. I can't wait to get started at my paper. I'm excited to meet the people I'll be working with. I'm excited to pitch my first story idea and (hopefully) see it in print. I'm excited to build a name for myself in the news business, or at least at The Post-Crescent in Appleton, Wis.

Nervous – and prepared

To say that I am not nervous about traveling to my internship would be a blatant lie. But after this wonderful weekend's events, I am more comfortable with the idea of not knowing everything when I get to the newsroom, and that is what I am looking forward to the most. Asking questions and learning about the newsroom and ways to make my stories better is an opportunity I am now excited about. Orientation has given me a new perspective on my internship, and I feel like I am more prepared to do the things that will be asked of me.

A career beginning

I’ve considered orientation as a beginning not only to my internship but also to the rest of my journalism career. From seminars on multimedia to messages about our differences, I’ve learned information that will help me during my internship. Before orientation, I had no idea if I was prepared for working in a daily newsroom. After the seminars and workshops, I think I’m ready.

I can’t wait to get started on the great story ideas I have. I’m also looking forward to working with the staff of the Times Daily in Florence, Ala., as well as talking with the people of Florence about what makes their community great. I’m excited, but I also have to admit I’m nervous. In the end, I think the nervousness and anticipation will give way to an enjoyable 10 weeks.

Eager to learn a new copy desk

I cannot wait to work in a newsroom in which copy editing is separate from pagination. I don't know whether such a copy desk model is necessarily better. I just know it will be different to concentrate on either only editing or only designing within a shift.

And I cannot wait to introduce myself to everyone in the newsroom at the Poughkeepsie Journal. In my previous internship, I made the mistake of waiting for people to introduce themselves, but newspaper people are super-busy -- they are not going to make time to greet and meet some punk copy editor in the corner. Instead, I have to take the time to approach them, say hello and show that I am someone worth knowing.

A promise

Panel of your peers (from left): Kristen Go (Summers 1996 and 1997), asst.metro editor, San Francisco Chronicle; Verna Thompson (Summer 1999), senior Web producer, The News Journal in Wilmington, Del,; Katie Oyan (Summer 1997 and Fall 2000), reporter, The Associated Press in Helena, Mont.; Jason McKibben (Spring 2005), photographer, Sarasota (Fla.) Herald-Tribune; and Paul Gutierrez (Summer 1993), sports reporter, The Sacramento (Calif.) Bee. (Photo by Rion Sanders, Summer 2003)

I can't wait to follow in the footsteps of the Chips Quinn Scholars who have made their mark in this incredible field. This summer, I hope to gain as much writing experience as I can, take risks, venture into areas I'm nervous about and develop the skills necessary to become the journalist that the Chips Quinn program can be proud of. As an alum, I’d like to come back as often as I can and help guide future Chips Quinn Scholars. Nothing I say can adequately express my gratitude to everyone connected with this program. Thank you for giving me the chance to work at The Providence (R.I.) Journal this summer. I promise I will make the most of this opportunity.

Encouragement for a career in journalism

Orientation with the Chips Quinn Scholars program has been phenomenal. Within four days, I've met many journalism heavyweights. My knowledge about where journalism came from and where it is heading has grown, thanks to everyone from John C. Quinn, CQS program co-founder, to John Seigenthaler, founder of the Freedom Forum’s First Amendment Center, as well as many editors and reporters in the field. I would like to thank you all for persuading me to stay in journalism instead of joining sports medicine "for a life of stretching hamstrings." I appreciate what you and people like you are doing to encourage young journalist to stay positive in a field that is continually changing.

On language

Keith Woods at his "A conversation about our differences" session. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

What I learned from Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, is that the best reporters know how to examine the language of others and question it as they question their own.

The journalist’s responsibility

The most important lesson I learned this weekend was about the responsibility of a journalist, as described by Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute. Our purpose is to inform the public of an issue while excluding any reasonable way that information can be misinterpreted. Although misinterpreting information may not be the journalist's fault entirely, it is our responsibility, totally, to make sure that we include details and are specific enough to eliminate errors that are misleading.

The Chipster family trumps all

CQS Program Co-founder John C. Quinn (left) and Director Karen Catone. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

How can I pick a favorite part of the orientation here in D.C. when the best part is simply becoming a part of the "Chipster" family; that is the greatest part of this experience.

In the shoes of another person of color

Keith Woods' presentation was tremendously helpful and important for aspiring journalist. Too often, people say things that are taken out of context because of a lack of thought and concern for others' life circumstances. Although I am a minority student, I find myself unaware of some of the racial issues that face American minorities. The presentation by Keith, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, showed me how important it is to be aware of and sensitive to the potential impact my words can have. He also showed me that I have a special obligation as a journalist to make sure I am responsible with my word choices when interacting with people from all walks of life.

The Newseum tops his list

My favorite part of orientation is the Newseum. This is a great place for any excursion, especially if you are a news addict. The Newseum is awesome because its state-of-the-art facilities blend new media with old-time reporting. This museum, the newest in Washington, D.C., has so many interesting things, from displays of Pulitzer Prize-winning photography to a memorable and deeply moving 9/11 exhibit.

The Newseum's 9/11 gallery. (Photo by Sue Stock Serna, Summer 2000).

Communication and truth

Keith Woods is the dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, and while what he talked about – communication -- should be common sense, he really changed the way I react in confrontational or uncomfortable situations. Asking someone what a comment means or why he or she feels a certain way is a great tool because it helps you understand where the person is coming from. This, in turn, makes it easier to connect with that person. These tools are important in everyday life, but they are priceless in the journalism profession. The way Woods connected these issues of communication to our most primal survival instincts emphasizes the harm that can be done if we fail to pause and ask these questions. By asking these questions, I will be able to write more comprehensive stories that represent a situation in complete truthfulness.

Switching off autopilot

I found myself hanging on every word of the presentation by Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute. As journalists, our entire responsibility is to communicate well, but Keith allowed me to see how poorly I have been communicating, as a journalist and in my personal life. I communicate on autopilot most of the time, unaware of the subconscious factors affecting my perception and interpretation of what people say.

Keith Woods talks to the Summer Scholars. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

I mentioned the example of an acquaintance of mine, a white man, who repeatedly called me "articulate" one day. I took offense, but, as Keith pointed out, the better reaction would have been to have asked him what he meant by calling me articulate. It is these assumptions during communication that can really change a story and, as shown through the current situation with Reverend Wright, can make a serious impact on individuals' lives. I'm going to take what I've learned from this presentation to improve my reporting and my relationships with other people.

Not just lip service

The organizers and promoters of the Chips Quinn Scholars program talk about what an opportunity it is and describe how the program could be the instrument that propels us to an excellent career. Sure, I thought, they say that because it’s what they have to say.

But they are right. Hearing from the professionals and scholars from past classes who’ve gone on to have illustrious careers, win awards and climb the industry’s ladder has been inspiring. It has shown me that this experience means that I am joining a family. I must have done something recognizable to get here. I can have a great career, too, and the Chips Quinn program will help me get there.

Deconstructing conversation

Today we had a speaker from The Poynter Institute, Keith Woods. He had an inspiring talk/discussion about breaking down our conversations, questioning, and our responses with other people, both in the professional world and in our personal life. Not only was his talk well performed, he also involved the students, asking them to relate to the situations he was talking about. He managed always to come to an antidote, sometimes using the students’ own examples to prove his points. I left his talk wanting to focus more on the way I communicate, not only as a journalist, but also in my personal life.

The power of a question

Keith Woods (second from left) talks to Scholars (from left) Jose San Mateo, Erica Walters and Jeannette Ceja. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

Seattle, my hometown, for all of its progressive “do-gooderness,” is not exactly what one could call diverse. At times, it makes for awkward conversation, resulting more from a lack of dialogue as opposed to malignant opinions. Still, the precipitate is a lack of understanding. This is why I found the lecture by Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, valuable. Asking the question “why did you say that?,” as opposed to assuming why someone said it; thinking about the context and history of a situation, especially when race and gender are involved; and acting with tact before saying it are a few simple ideas for improved understanding.

A celebrity sighting at the Newseum

Today we toured the Newseum, the museum of news at its brand new location. After seeing a 4-D movie with a few sprays of water and lots of "oh’s and ah's" about how news has changed in America, a few of my new Chips Quinn friends and I headed for the glass elevators. We were enjoying the view of the museum's atrium on the ride up when I noticed that Mike Rowe from The Discovery Channel’s "Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe" was standing next to me with his beautiful spouse. My heart skipped a beat as I stared at the host known for his wit and wisdom as he discovers and works at America's dirtiest jobs. I whispered my sighting to fellow Scholars Brenda Vallejo and Rick Rojas, but none of us were sure it was really Rowe.

We were in the biggest elevator I've seen, surrounded by at least 20 eighth-graders in matching T-shirts. I've read enough books to know that the quickest way to anger celebrities is to draw attention to them in a crowded place. In true journalistic spirit, I quietly said, "Excuse me, sir, are you Mr. Rowe?" He smiled and said, "Hi, nice to meet you." We saw him again later and our brave photographer Brenda asked for a photo. He was gracious, and his mom even took a picture with Brenda's camera so we could all get in the shot.

Lessons for journalism – and life

The session today by Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, was informative. The lessons he bestowed can have an immediate impact on my interviewing and writing. I will pay more attention to my paraphrasing and general sentence writing in order to avoid confusion. I also can take these lessons with me into my personal life. Thinking more about how my statements will be received will allow me to be perceived as a better individual.

Thankful for the opportunity

As orientation comes to an end, I can't help but marvel at how this is only the beginning of our experience with this program. Perhaps years from now, we may be coming back to assist the new classes of scholars. When I first heard about Chips Quinn at the National Association of Hispanic Journalists convention in Fort Lauderdale a couple of years ago, I didn't apply. But as we have heard throughout this orientation, we are here for a reason, and I'm glad I waited. Our CQS class is the first to experience the Newseum in all its glory and is among the first to receive multimedia training at the end of the summer. I'm thankful to be a part of this program and am looking forward to my future endeavors.

Who’s reading the paper?

Scholars play Newsmania. (Photo by Russel Daniels, Summer 2008)

“Blue! Blue! Blue!” What could unify and divide us more than the ever-popular Newsmania game? It was perhaps the best part of orientation so far, and I firmly believe that it would be appropriate to conclude each night with a rousing round of Newsmania – for the joys and sorrows of the teams’ wins and losses and most important, to see who read The Washington Post that morning.

What they don’t teach in J-school

Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, taught us something they don't teach in J-school: Journalist have a duty to gather as much information as needed to makesure readers fully understand what is being said. "You can control half (of the conversation), but you have a responsibility for it all," Woods said.

A helpful array of speakers

From left: Jason McKibben (Spring 2005), photographer, Sarasota (Fla.) Herald-Tribune and Xavier Mascarenas (Summer 2008). (Photo by Sue Serna, Summer 2000)

My favorite thing about orientation so far, besides the people I've met, is how well the program has mixed professional journalists who are outside of our age range with alumni from just 10 years ago. I was a bit nervous that the journalists we would meet would be patronizing or would tell us things we had already learned. Instead, it's clear that the speakers put much thought into their presentations and took care to discuss issues that aren't taught in college (or at least at mine). The lessons we've learned here are helpful, not only for our internships but also for the rest of our journalism career.

Using words with care

Keith Woods' session was invaluable. His words on language and how it can bemisinterpreted is a lesson all journalists must learn. As journalists, we have a duty to be accurate and fair. In order to do that, we must be careful with the words we use in our reporting, interviewing and writing. Keith, who is dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, touched on the issue of the tension among races and how messages can be distorted and misperceived by reporters and editors who fail to provide context for what people say. I will remember what Keith said and be aware of the language I use and the messages people are trying to convey.

In order to understand, ask questions

Is it racist when someone of a background other than your own tells you that you are surprisingly articulate? Is that considered offensive? Growing up in the South, without an accent to pin me down to any race, per se, I have experienced this offense. I learned today from Keith Woods, dean of faculty at The Poynter Institute, that I have to resort to questions in order to understand where a person who says this is coming from. As journalists, we must ask questions to avoid making mountains out of mole hills. Mr. Woods’ speech, I hope, will stay in the mind of Chipsters and be spread throughout our profession.

Two among many

Today’s session was so full of great information and wonderful speakers it is impossible for me to choose just one. I’ll choose two. Sue Stock, retail reporter at The News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C., was engaging and encouraging. She provided a good list of practical tips to make our first day in the newsroom seem less frightening. She encouraged us to ask questions and ask for clarification if the first answer does not satisfy us. She also gave us two important questions to ask people when trying to get new story ideas: What are you mad about? What are you concerned about?


Sue Stock (Summer 2000) in front of the Newseum's Front Pages gallery.

Rion Sanders, a staff photographer with the Great Falls Tribune in Montana, made a big impression on me, not just because he was a fellow photographer, but also because he provided insight on what to expect as a photo intern. He shared his work, both professional and personal projects, and answered questions about how he made a particular shot. I also enjoyed the chance to show our work and receive feedback from the group.

Setting goals key to becoming an exceptional journalist

Career Coach Colleen Fitzpatrick during the small group session. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

Knowing your goals and having the motivation to pursue them is essential to journalism. That is what I learned today from Aissatou Sidime, a business writer with the San Antonio Express-News, and Colleen Fitzpatrick, a CQS career coach, when we split into small groups. Aissatou knew that she wanted to be a business writer and she actively pursued it until she succeeded. It’s all well and good to have a good work ethic and a passion for journalism, but it is only with goals that one can be truly outstanding. I have yet to figure out my career goals, but thanks to Aissatou and Colleen, I'm thinking about them and where I want to go in journalism.

Sharing a dream

From left: Rick Jervis (Summer 1993), reporter, USA TODAY; Aissatou Sidime (Summer 1991), business writer, San Antonio (Texas) Express-News; Sue Stock (Summer 2000), retail reporter, The News & Observer, Raleigh, N.C.; and Jack Marsh, vice president, diversity programs, Freedom Forum. (Photo by Nate Rohnke)

All of the speakers taught me something, but the person who stuck in my mind was Rick Jervis, USA TODAY’s Gulf Coast correspondent. Mr. Jervis has done many things I would like to experience in the news business. His first job reporting overseas was in Prague, Czech Republic, where he freelanced. He gave advice on becoming a foreign correspondent. In Prague, he couldn’t speak the language and picked it up along the way. His courage in reporting in a country where he didn’t know the language is an inspiration for my future endeavors.

Pressing on

I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation by Jamesetta Walker, assistant features editor of The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Va. Her advice was practical and relevant, and she delivered her message in an entertaining way. I appreciated her obvious enthusiasm about her job and the journalism industry in general. She helped to ease my mind about some of the issues I will probably run into during my time in Wilmington, Del.

I also loved the way she was so straightforward. It was refreshing to hear someone say that when you make a mistake or run into a problem, "you just press on." Her presentation encouraged me to simply do my best and recognize and learn from any mistake I might make. I will carry her words with me and "just press on."

Reaffirming the belief in oneself

After our Wolfgang Puck-catered lunch, a luxury all Chipsters have quickly gotten used to, John C. Quinn, co-founder of the Chips Quinn Scholars program, gave a short speech that filled the eyes of many of us with tears and relieved me of any personal insecurity regarding my pursuit of a career in journalism. His words of wisdom and encouragement were what really made this experience hit home for me. We are here to fulfill the dreams held not only by ourselves, but also by a group of people who are fed up with the way things have always been and who are ready for journalism to represent who we all are as a community, not just a selected few. It is John's dedication to us and to this cause, and his genuine belief that we all have what it takes to make it that reinforces and strengthens my belief in myself.

(Photo by Diego James Robles, Summer 2008)

Advice for photogs, too

I really liked hearing Sue Stock, retail reporter at The News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C., talk today. I was worried that I would nod off this morning since I was up late last night, but she had a lot to say that kept me wide awake. She talked specifically about reporting, but much of the same advice holds for photo stuff, too. It’s all storytelling, after all.

Ask, don’t assume

I enjoyed listening to the political editor of USA TODAY, Catalina Camia, explain accuracy in journalism. I now understand that professionals like Catalina have made mistakes at some point. In the future, I can learn from my mistakes just as she has done. I was also inspired by her advice not to underestimate statistics, numbers or reports. I learned that it is always better to ask others for help if I do not understand any information.

Scholar Jeannette Ceja. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

An on-point speaker

The presentation by Jamesetta Walker, assistant features editor of The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Va., resonated with me. Besides her ebullience and enthusiasm, which she has an impossible amount of, Walker had the air of a woman who's never been off point in her life. I agree with her about the importance of being a concise writer. I have been trained as she preached – to hook readers in three paragraphs or risk losing them forever. I suppose this contradicts what I said in an earlier post, where I took a mighty stand against the tenets of the five W's. I never meant to betray being informative and efficient. There should just be more freedoms to write leads that are creative. Tell the reader what they need to know and why ASAP. Walker is right. But she knew that already.

(Photo by Nate Rohnke)

Gaining new energy

I was the only participant to hear CQS alumna and Baltimore Sun copy editor Faith Karimi and I enjoyed my time with her because it was unlike any previous conversation I've had with professional copy editors. Talking about copy editing can get dry at times, but Karimi kept our session fresh by offering a human element. Before we discussed ethics or pored over sample sentences, we touched on how easy it is for us editors to feel burned out on the day-to-day routine of reading copy and writing haiku-like headlines. I told her my level of concentration had been worn down to a nub after a year of copy editing three to four nights a week, and I was worried that my fatigue would carry over to the Poughkeepsie Journal. She shared that she had been in a similar situation a few months ago.

"What did you do to re-energize yourself?" I asked.

Karimi said she moved to the sports copy desk and immersed herself in the world of scores and game rules. Occasionally getting out of one's comfort zone and learning new things is key, she said.

We'll all be getting out of our comfort zone soon, and I think the work we'll do this summer will be far from fatiguing.

A model for success

Eddy Ramirez, national education reporter at U.S. News & World Report, gave an inspiring speech. He was a Chips Quinn Scholar in 2001 and now is working for one of the big three news magazines in the country. He mentioned his upbringing and struggle to get ahead, as well as how being a Chipster helped him personally and professionally. Making photographs for a news magazine is a dream of mine and he had me thinking that if he can do it, why can’t I?

Alum Eddy Ramirez. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

Concise advice engages

Jack Marsh, vice president/diversity programs for the Freedom Forum, has been one the most helpful speakers so far. Aside from his engaging “broadcast” voice, he has offered concise advice. Like him, I'm interested in the training and retention of young journalists and would love to be in charge of that type of work someday, as he is now. But for now, I'll settle for a gratifying job on a metro desk.

Jack Marsh. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

Keeping priorities straight

All of our speakers have given us information we'll be able to use this summer. But the most helpful and inspiring part of orientation so far has been John C. Quinn's talk about love and family at Friday's lunch. Mr. Quinn, co-founder of the Chips Quinn Scholars program, didn't dole out reporting tips, but he did remind us of something many of us probably know but often forget: Everyone, no matter how brilliant, needs love and support from someone who likes him for who he is. And we all need to give the love and support back. At the end of the day, we'll remember the good stories we wrote, but not without remembering the fun we had with the people we love. I'm glad Mr. Quinn reminded us of that.

A confidence-builder

Jamesetta Walker’s confidence was infectious. She is assistant features editor of The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Va., and what I liked best as she talked about some important elements of good story-writing was her confidence. It was obvious that she is someone who has been around for some time, worked with all kinds of reporters and writers, and knows what differentiates good journalistic pieces from mediocre ones. She backed up everything she said with clear examples, which really helped us see what she meant by the various bullet points listed on her handout. Somehow, just listening to her speak made me feel more confident of my own abilities. It made me feel that I know more than I realize and that I'm actually prepared to tackle any assignment that comes my way in the next few months.

Getting it right

If I had to pick one speaker who really stood out, it would be Sue Stock, retail reporter at The News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C. She spoke about something I've become increasingly worried about these past few months: mistakes, big ones. Simply misspelling a name or changing an "avenue" to a "boulevard" could have a serious impact on the lives of countless citizens in my internship city, Salt Lake City. I've made a few mistakes in my years of news writing at my college paper and I never want to have that feeling again, especially at The Salt Lake Tribune. By "pencil checking" my stories, printing out the final draft, circling every fact and checking each one, I can avoid making simple mistakes that could end up being very costly. So thank you, Sue, for your great advice.

When hard work pays off

Since our arrival in D.C., CQS Program Co-founder John Quinn has reminded us to always work hard and play hard. Rick Jervis, a CQS program alumnus, is the poster child for Quinn’s beliefs. As an intern, Jervis established himself as a tireless worker. His early efforts became the foundation for years of success at newspapers whose names are familiar to journalists all over the nation, including USA TODAY, where Jervis currently is the Gulf Coast correspondent. Working hard and going above and beyond the call of duty is an attitude that will be essential to me as I venture into the wide world of journalism.

Alums stir new class

Eddy Ramirez looked just like one of us – lost, hungry and tired. When he was asked to welcome us new Chipsters at the opening reception, I was excited to hear from an alum of the CQS program. His journey through the news editorial world was filled with the unpredictable twists that I have been trying to prepare myself for. But it was his story of starting out at the Statesman Journal, where I will be this summer, that has got me even more hopeful and ambitious. As it turns out, many Chipsters have been through the Statesman, including the original, Chips Quinn.

Taking charge of a career

Listening to industry professionals as we did on Friday, I found it difficult to name a favorite, or one who stood out more than the others. Aissatou Sidime, business writer for the San Antonio Express-News, spoke about how she got what she wanted out of her career, which was important for me to hear. Her journey confirmed that in order to have a fulfilling experience, you have to be willing to insist that your needs be met. Also, her insights made me realize that in this career, you can't settle. This is a changing industry and in order to thrive you have to fight for what you want until you get it.

Call in the doctor!

If the best medicine is being blunt and hilarious, then Jamesetta Walker is the doctor. Walker is the assistant features editor at The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, and she has been my favorite speaker during orientation. There is nothing I appreciate more than a strong woman who is a leader in the journalism community and can get through life with a wicked sense of humor.

Caught by her high heel

The speaker who influenced me most was John Quinn. Before I came to Washington, D.C, I was severely burned out. I completed four internships during my college years and had just finished two journalism finals before getting on the plane to Washington. The doom and gloom of the newspaper industry was heavy on my mind, and I had run into "swamp people" in the past whom I had allowed unknowingly to let me doubt this profession.

No more. When Mr. Quinn, co-founder of the CQS program, spoke of his son's dedication to diversity, his wife Loie's support and the fact that he believed in all of us, something welled up inside of me that I had been struggling to keep down. I had considered applying to grad school in a different subject, but I knew that I just couldn't quit journalism. I couldn't help but cry when Mr. Quinn said everyone in the program was here to "pull us over the wall." This program caught me by my high heel and brought me over to the other side.

Pencil-checking means sleeping easy

Sue Stock, retail reporter at The News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C., had a significant impact on me. Accuracy is a high priority with each story I write. I've lost sleep at night wondering if I've missed something in a story after I've turned it in. I can see how the “pencil-check” method she taught can be a lifesaver, and I plan to use it on every story. With this fact-checking method, I'm sure I'll get more sleep after turning in my stories.

Becoming tech-savvy

Being that I am not the most tech-savvy student journalist, I am enthusiastic about the preview Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, gave us of the skills we will be learning in August at the multimedia “boot camp.” I am particularly interested in the Audacity audio program since I also do radio. I plan to download the program and practice using it in advance of the workshop in Nashville.

Multimedia standards

What I found most interesting was the work published on mediastorm.org. My goal as a journalist is to produce similar work. Multimedia work, we were told over and over, encompasses many things – audio, video, photography and even storytelling skills. A successful multimedia piece should be compelling, truthful and accurate. We are entering into a rapidly changing industry and we should all be ready.

Embracing multimedia

Multimedia is where it's at. Our multimedia "boot camp" in August will propel us well ahead of almost everyone else in the industry. Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, is our "evangelist," even though the official title is taken. I'm looking forward to the prophecy of multimedia being delivered. The biggest theme to emerge today from our discussions is the overwhelming need and nearly unlimited possibilities multimedia embraces.

Making news fresh, exciting

The main thing I learned today is that multimedia will kill old journalism. And I think it's great.
I read the paper on occasion while growing up, but I was always bored by the seriousness of it. It was sterile and reeked of beige. You know: who, what, where, why, blah, blah, blah. I love content on the Internet because it is entertaining and exciting, and the best coverage gets me interested once I'm done reading. Not that traditional print media can't be fun to read. I just feel that with the tools that were presented to us today, I can actually see how the future of journalism will work: informed, efficient and engaging.
Goodbye five W's, hello New Media.

Think globally, write locally

Mark Briggs listens to a Scholar's question. (Photo by Nate Rohnke)

The main point I remember from the multimedia presentations during orientation is that online news is really about the audience. I was looking forward to hearing Mark Briggs, assistant managing editor-interactive for The News Tribune in Tacoma, Wash., discuss online news and Web technologies. Since my introduction to Final Cut Pro and the process of shooting video for the Web, I've been hooked on how the Internet can connect journalists with a global audience. I have been fortunate to have Web and video-technology experience from working at my college newspaper. Briggs reiterated that this type of experience is becoming necessary for journalists to have in the print newsroom. Seeing the familiar logos of YouTube and Apple products reminded me how my generation is so multimedia focused and that my experience with multimedia gives me an advantage over strictly print journalists. I fully believe that the online newspapers can reach a global audience as well as having a local interest.

Easing multimedia anxiety

At first, I had a pretty bad attitude about wanting to learn multimedia. "I'm a writer, and that's what I am," I used to stay. Now I see that there are other ways to tell stories and that the same hard work I put into learning the basics of journalism (which I'm still learning) I can put into learning the basics of multimedia. What inspired me most was when Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, said that our first projects don't have to be big, and that we shouldn't compare what we produce with what large daily publications produce. That put my mind at ease about learning multimedia.

A whole new world

I learned not to be afraid to try new mediums. I have done photography, worked with Photoshop and had minimal experience with Dreamweaver and Final Cut Pro. Still, the presentations unveiled today were a new world to me. I did not know this world would be so fascinating and have so much significance to the future of my personal and professional life. I feel reassured that it is OK not to know exactly what you are doing with a multimedia project, but to act according to the results of your experiments.

Creating moving pieces

I like the idea of telling a story in ways other than using only text and video. I enjoyed learning from Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, how journalists can let their sources tell stories. I learned how sources can make a stronger impact when they narrate a story.

Accuracy remains priority

Today I learned that I'm not in the wrong profession. There is hope yet for newspapers.
I was especially encouraged to learn from Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, that newspaper journalists are ahead of broadcast journalists. The Web landscape will continue to dominate and eventually eliminate television, Hoeppner predicts.
Mark Briggs of The News Tribune in Tacoma, Wash., told us that in this new age of journalism, news is more of a conversation between the journalist, the source, the expert and the public. To survive and thrive in this new landscape, we must adapt and be humble enough to enter that conversation.
Reflecting on this new age, where anyone on YouTube can be a videographer, anyone who can create a blog can be an author, and anyone who posts "facts" on Wikipedia can be a reporter, I think that the information of professional journalists stands out because we are held accountable for what we print and say. That is why it is imperative that as we forge new ground, we still make accuracy a priority.

Required training

If we want a job with today's news outlets, we cannot rely on our youth alone. Though we come to the newsroom with reporting and editing skills, and although we've charted the waters of YouTube and MySpace, we young journalists don't necessarily come with audio and video experience, so our segue into multimedia positions is far from automatic. I realized today that if I want to maintain my marketability, multimedia training is not optional.

Right time, right place

At last, multimedia. It's exciting to know that soon, very soon, we will be receiving this much-needed training. I know now more than ever that this new way of telling stories is what I want to do and learn. Newsrooms around the country are embracing this new method of enhancing stories and it's crucial to learn everything possible in order to keep up. The timing couldn't be better, and I am excited to be learning from a dedicated teacher.

Enhancing print through multimedia

I am excited by the rapidly changing world of print media. Newspapers have come a long way, even in my short lifetime. Listening to industry professionals who can attest to the incredible impact of multimedia elements was inspiring and encouraging. The most important thing I learned today was how much multimedia can enhance your print product. I cannot wait to apply these lessons to my school's paper. I also am anxiously awaiting my time at the multimedia workshop in Nashville.

Entering a new, fascinating world

For years, journalism professors have told me that my career as a print journalist would likely be short-lived due to their prediction that newspapers would soon be extinct. Today, I was introduced to an unfamiliar world, the fascinating world of multimedia. After listening to several lecturers, I found that I lack education in an area of journalism that is the wave of today and the future. I now feel that I, too, can learn to bring my storytelling to life through photos, video and sound. I have a new appreciation for and interest in multimedia. Journalism is not a field that will be disappearing anytime soon, if ever. Journalism is simply expanding and morphing to mold to new technological times.

Photographer respects multimedia

Being a visual person, I struggle with writing, especially with writing efficiently. I have come to understand and respect multimedia storytelling – sacrilegious words for any purist photographer – because it allows visual journalists to deliver compelling, finished stories. By using audio and video, we can let a subject tell the story. The hard part about multimedia is editing – finding the main points and weeding out the rest.

Evolving with new media

I became more informed today about the evolution of multimedia and its integration into the Web sites of traditional publications. I learned about ways to apply other media to the section I write for. For instance, Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Freedom Forum’s Diversity Institute, described how her former newspaper included video in athlete profiles and sports features. I could apply similar ideas to my university’s sports section. I also learned how to use extra photos and leftover audio to create additional Web content. I learned how to make my blogging more professional and to maintain a balance between online content and the print versions of stories. These lessons will be valuable during my internship as I more than likely will be asked to suggest ways to create Web content to accompany my stories.

Hope for technology challenged

I learned not to be scared.
I walked into the Newseum this morning dreading the presentation on multimedia. I consider myself technologically challenged, as I have no multimedia knowledge or experience. At the same time, I was hoping that my fears were unfounded and that the presentations would help me realize that I, too, can learn how to use all those high-tech software and editing programs and be able to make cool videos, etc. Thankfully, after listening to Val Hoeppner, the multimedia guru herself, I feel more confident and excited about attending her workshop at the Diversity Institute in Nashville in August. The most important lesson I learned from the presentation was not to be scared of technology and to see it as something that can supplement my writing skills in today's journalistic world.

Responding to audience

During today's session at the Newseum, Mark Briggs, assistant managing editor-interactive at The News Tribune in Tacoma, Wash., shed light on a concept I never considered when thinking about how to produce a successful publication: getting responses from readers. Briggs talked about having areas on publication Web sites that ask readers for their input or allow them to discuss their thoughts freely. I also learned that through this "exercise," story ideas can be developed. This is something my school newspaper, The Famuan, should adopt next year because we've had many newsroom discussions about what readers wants.

In her own words

I'm thrilled to be going to the Nashville multimedia “boot camp,” since multimedia skills are in great demand now. I saw how powerful it is to hear in a story the subject’s voice and ambient noise. Some stories seem more personal and intriguing when the subject tells the story, as opposed to hearing the reporter's voice.

Lessons in conquering next frontier

I have no experience in multimedia, and the idea of producing it is intimidating. The presentation on multimedia by Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Diversity Institute, was compelling. The presentation taught me two things: interns in today's world are expected to know more and more and contribute content beyond print, and multimedia is the next frontier emerging journalists have to conquer.
Perhaps the reason I'm intimidated is because I have a perfectionist attitude, and learning new skills is frustrating and stressful if I don't pick them up right away. I am, however, willing and ready to expand my repertoire.

Creative juices flowing

I love to be creative and whenever I can I try to search for ways to inject creativity into my stories. When I saw the examples of audio and video stories by individuals such as Sam Riche, photojournalist for The Indianapolis Star, I was inspired (and encouraged) to leap out of my comfort zone and try my hand at writing a story using multimedia tools. I will have to learn numerous software programs, such as Final Cut Express and Audacity, to create these great projects, and I know they will take a while to master. But it will definitely be worth it.
After the presentation by Val Hoeppner, manager of multimedia education at the Freedom Forum Diversity Institute, my creative juices are flowing around how to use multimedia to make my stories interesting. For instance, for online readers, I can add new information to a print article instead of simply republishing it online. Stories can also be accompanied by photo galleries, graphics or videos to keep the reader engaged.

Moving forward

The multimedia wave of the future is unavoidable. We in the media must adjust as computers, devices and the Internet evolve and change. The only thing we can do as journalists is accept these ideals as truth and move forward with technology.

Reinforcing optimism

Tell Romenesko to shut up. One of the big ironies in print journalism is that print journalists are frequently referring to the Romenesko blog—a blog, part of the new media—to receive news of dying or downsizing print newspapers. And while Romenesko doesn't do much more than merely relay the facts, the blog can be sobering. A former professor of mine, who is also an assistant managing editor at The Seattle Times (a newspaper Romenesko recently reported to be downsizing), said he simply stopped reading Romenesko. It was too depressing.
Yesterday's lectures on the new-medium thrusts of journalism were reinforcing. Or, at least, the lectures tempered the gloom a young reporter gets when all the veteran journalists he has worked with tell him to get out of the business and go to law school while it's still an option.

Sounding off for multimedia

From left: Jack Marsh, vice president/Freedom Forum Diversity Programs, Val Hoeppner, manager/Diversity Institute Multimedia Education and Colleen Fitzpatrick, CQS career coach. (Photo by Nate Rohnke)

I knew I would have to learn multimedia if I wanted to continue in journalism, but I didn't realize until yesterday that I actually want to learn it. The projects that Val Hoeppner, manager for multimedia education with the Freedom Forum’s diversity programs, showed us made me want to make something even half as good. One piece from The Indianapolis Star made a point about the similarity between Hillary Clinton's and Barack Obama's speeches in Indiana by cutting back and forth between parts of their speeches. The candidates made similar statements and, in a few cases, even used the same words. The clip created momentum that would have been impossible to express through the written word. Until I saw that clip, I hadn’t thought about what sound could do that an article couldn't. Val told us to watch strong examples of multimedia before the training session in Nashville. I'm excited to watch good stuff and even more excited to try to make it.

No expectation for experience of a lifetime

To be honest, I don’t know what to expect – and I like it that way.
I’ve promised myself that I would come to orientation with all of myself – all the energy, enthusiasm and willingness to put myself out there that I could muster. I wanted to enter the door without the baggage of expectations. Instead, by putting my best foot forward, I can make new friends or connections, learn how to be a better writer and reporter, and have the experience of a lifetime. What I’m expecting is something that I wouldn’t have expected otherwise.

Connecting with future, current industry leaders

I hope to get a great deal out of orientation. The most important thing is to meet and make connections with the future leaders of the journalism industry. After that, I want to get some face time with the current leaders of the industry and have an honest and thought-provoking conversation on where journalism is going. I want orientation to guide and prepare me for my summer internship with insight on what is expected of me and ways to maximize the experience.

Inspiration, goals central to experience

This weekend I want to be inspired. I want to experience the same shot of idealistic energy I felt the first time I learned that I could become a watchdog journalist and seeker of truth. I want to be reminded why what we do is so important and how—if done with heart, hard work and skill—it can change the world. I also want to be mentored. I want to come away with a more refined direction in my career, a new perspective on my writing, and a small set of goals I can accomplish as soon as I get back to the newsroom. Finally, I want to have quality fun. I want to leave with a new set of friends and a mutual support group to happily keep in touch with throughout my personal and professional life.

Becoming indispensable

The opening reception at orientation reaffirmed many of the good things I heard about the program. That's encouraging, because when the time comes, my being part of this program can very well be a determining factor in my finding work as a visual journalist. As for the individual components of orientation, I want to gain a better handle on how best to produce multimedia and how to make myself more indispensable to a large news organization like the Austin (Texas) American-Statesman, where I'll be interning.

Learning, sharing multimedia skills

I hope to gain professional insight and cutting-edge skills in the multimedia and journalism field from my Chips Quinn orientation. When I arrive at my internship at the Springfield (Mo.) News-Leader this summer, I want to be confident in my journalistic skills so that I can engage in the newsroom dialogue with the full-time reporters and editors. I want to contribute to my paper and in turn gain experience. I want to also enlighten others interested in multimedia with what I know.

Hoping for empowerment

The Chips Quinn Scholars program is not the first diversity enhancement program in which I've participated, and my experience with similarly poised programs makes me apprehensive about orientation this week. Churning my stomach about the other programs was their backwardness. Our race defined who we were, and tortured stories about overcoming hardship were expected. Behind the closed doors of our conference halls, guest speakers felt at liberty to talk about "The Man" and warn us that we would be the first people of color some Nebraskans had seen in person and we should not be surprised if a white girl or boy tried to stroke our brown skin or pet our curls.

I am resentful. But I don't want to be, because I strongly believe in the CQS program's mission to increase newsroom diversity. I have seen firsthand that different backgrounds bring different sensitivities to a paper, thus getting us journalists closer to the truth. I hope to leave CQS orientation empowered, not further embittered. And judging by the amazing people I've met at the introductory dinner, I think my hopes will be fulfilled.

Creating memories

Being in Washington, D.C., with other aspiring journalists is a situation I will likely never experience again. It is up to me to get the most out of it, and to do so I have specific goals in mind. Here, with other Chips Quinn Scholars I hope to get to know them and be able to share stories and experiences. I also want to learn what I can from guest speakers and other professionals so I will be better prepared for my internship. Lastly, I hope to look back on this weekend with fond memories and be able to tell others what it is to be a Chips Quinn Scholar.

Learning from fellow Chipsters

There are very few things that I enjoy more than the act of writing. It affords an outlet for daily troubles, a sense of pleasure, and in this case a career. Orientation tonight reminded me that I have a lot to learn as a journalist and writer. Also, there is no better environment to do so than here in D.C. After listening to the speakers and hearing so many of my fellow interns talk about their goals and what they would like to contribute to their internships, I have one goal: simply to learn from them.

Great expectations

When dealing with a prestigious program such as the Chips Quinn Scholars program, it's hard not to have tremendous expectations. With each participant eager to absorb valuable information, the orientation is expected to be taken seriously. However, the most important expectation, as stated by CQS program Co-founder John C. Quinn himself, is to always have fun.

With so much stress in the workforce, it is imperative that the Scholars learn to relax and have fun as a part of their orientation. Even though there will be much business at hand, there must be a balance within each journalist to prevent a breakdown or decrease in quality. Finding the balance between taking the orientation seriously and having fun with it will only make the experience more valuable.


(Photo by Nate Rohnke)

Three years in waiting

During the Chips Quinn Scholars orientation, I hope to understand the meaning of being a “Chipster” and be able to tap into the resources that have become famous around the University of Colorado journalism program. I first heard about this opportunity during my freshman year in college and have truly been waiting the past three years to get into the program. Along the way, I have developed a love for nutrition and cannot wait to learn multimedia enough to bring my two interests together for the most interesting and newsworthy stories.

Seeking to shrink ego

"You actually don't know it all, Aaron."

I'm constantly reminding myself of that fact. Having done two internships at small- to medium- sized dailies, and been the two-time editor of the Golden Gate [X]press Online, I've realized that I'm that smart-ass, know-it-all on the campus newspaper that everyone wants to shut up.

"We know, Aaron! We know you're awesome," I've imagined they thought or said after I've imparted my wisdom during staff meetings.

What do I want to get out of Chips Quinn? I want my ego to shrink significantly after my experience here. I do possess the ability to be humble. But sometimes I need a little help to push me there. And honestly, despite purporting that I've got "it" all figured out thus far, I truly don't.

And I'm actually very nervous about this entire journalism thing.

Pray for me.

New friendships build newsroom confidence

During orientation, I expect to get myself pumped for my internship at The Wenatchee World in Washington. I would like to gain more confidence so I can walk in the newsroom prepared instead of nervous. The Freedom Forum seems like an institution that can help me flourish. This week, I also plan on getting to know my fellow Chipsters and garner strength through them.

Forming relationships under Capitol lights

Newseum at night. (Photo by Sam Kittner)

A tingling in my toes. That's what I want to get out of my internship. Not just from the thrill of meeting a writing assignment deadline, or from a great speaker who reminds me yet again of my passion for news, or from anticipation of my summer adventures, but also from the fun I'll have with new friends under the lights of the Capitol.

Living up to expectations

Chips Quinn intern Nate Rohnke. (Photo by Diego James Robles, Summer 2008)

From what I have seen so far, the Chips Quinn Scholars staff is committed to providing us with the best information and training it can. I expect the staff members to follow through on that and I also expect myself to live up to the standards of the program. By the time I head back to California for my internship, I expect to be able to say that I gave everything that I could and learned as much as I could and use that knowledge to be the best intern at The Oakland Tribune.

Already on a roll

What do you expect to get out of a place you’ve never been to, among people from different walks of life that now converge with your own? That’s what I asked myself as I left Louisville, headed to D.C. Only eight hours later, I had my answer. It was not until CQS Program Co-founder John Quinn walked up to me not a full five minutes into being at the Newseum. He said, “You’ve always had something to offer, even writing headlines.” He was referring to what I wrote in my Web profile in answer to a question about how I got started in journalism. After the Scholars’ first meal together, my path crossed with Quinn’s again. He said “J.D. you’re on a roll.” That’s when I fully knew why I was at Chips Quinn: to continue the roll that I’m on and take it to the next level.

Here for a reason

I was initially overwhelmed with the number of diverse Chipsters gathered in the Residence Inn lobby. However, once we were seated at the Newseum, orientation made me realize how many experienced journalists are supporting the program and that none of us were chosen by chance. I have made a lot of connections in less than a day with people like Career Coach Colleen Fitzpatrick and especially John Quinn, co-founder of the CQS program, who I expect will continue to offer us guidance and support. Mostly I expect to learn more about myself and the other Chipsters and how the people behind the Chips Quinn Scholars can help me prepare for the newsroom as an intern.

I have worked in student media at Louisiana State University since my freshman year, but my real-world experience is minimal. I am excited about working in a real newsroom and thrilled about having the chance to fine-tune my writing skills before shipping out to Delaware. Being able to meet other students who share my interests and goals is a stupendous opportunity. I cannot wait to hear all the speakers and learn about the other excellent resources that are available to us.

I came into the program knowing that I would get training in writing and multimedia. Of course, that is something I look forward to. However, the one thing I hope to gain during orientation is the confidence to walk into a newsroom and take on any story that's thrown at me. From what I've heard, the Chips Quinn program will give us more than just the basic skills we need to succeed. It will also teach us the attitude we need to make a life out of this business.

Welcome!

Welcome to the Chips Quinn Scholars Summer 2008 orientation blog. Forty two Scholars are headed to the Newseum in Washington, D.C., for five days of orientation. (Three members of the Summer class participated in the January orientation program.) This blog will include daily updates during orientation, May 14-18, 2008.


Meet the new class of Chipsters.