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.

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.

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.