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.

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.