Megan Jones
Graduation Year
May 2017
Major
News-editorial journalism
Minor
Political science
Hometown
Prospect Heights, Illinois
Campus Activities
The Daily Illini - served as assistant news editor and editor-in-chief, currently serving as administration beat reporter
Twitter
LinkedIn
Employer
The Daily Herald
Internship Title
Editorial intern
What were your duties?
I was assigned a beat to cover and given local areas to report on. I had to keep up-to-date with news happening in the area and write various profiles of interesting residents. I also helped with creating a digital database for the newspaper's upcoming anniversary special edition.
What did you most enjoy about your internship?
I enjoyed the independence I received to be able to go to town meetings on my own and get to truly act as a real reporter. I was able to pitch all of my own story ideas and cover breaking news as well. They didn't treat me as an intern but instead like everyone else.
What was the most difficult aspect of the internship?
The most difficult aspect was getting used to my beat at first because I was newer to the area and didn't receive many assignments. From day one, I had to go out and find my own story ideas. I felt like I struggled, but in reality my internship supervisor told me that I was his best intern at finding my own ideas and always staying on task instead of waiting around for something to do. Be resourceful and always ask if you can help if you aren't doing anything. It might seem nerve-wracking at first, but the more you ask the more opportunities you'll receive!
How did your experience at ILLINOIS and in the College of Media prepare you for your internship?
My experience at The Daily Illini specifically really helped me with serving as a beat reporter there because I already knew what was expected of me. Without classes, such as news editing, I would not have been prepared but instead I was able to accomplish things on my own instead of having to ask my supervisor. Self-editing is very important and without having taken reporting and news editing classes, I would have struggled much more.
How has your internship prepared you for a career?
The internship prepared me for a career by allowing me to go to special training workshops, such as learning about social media and ways to advance my stories online. I got a taste of how a real newsroom is run in a professional setting.
What recommendations do you have for other students about doing an internship?
Be friendly to everyone you meet and do not be shy! You need to put yourself out there and make lasting impressions. It is the best way to make an impact and to be able to possibly receive a future career there down the line!
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