I started out working for a TV station while I was in college. It was during that time I learned how to shoot news, edit, run Chyron, direct, report and just about everything else.
That may not be of any value to your job search, but I do have some advice for you. Try to get an internship at a TV station that has a news department. If it's required for you to be a student, call one of your old professors and find out if you can get a directed study course
or similar program.
I also think it would help in your case to aim for a small market that will allow you to get hands on experience. Once you get your foot in the door, LIVE at the TV station. Seriously, spend all the time they will let you at the station, volunteer to do what ever is needed. If that means coming in at 3 a.m., do it willingly. The more you show you are willing to do the real work of TV news and that you are not simply looking to get your face on television, the more likely you are to get hired.
If your internship ends without a job offer, at least you will have made a full resume tape while there. I hope it goes without saying that you WILL get a tape together during your internship. Also, ask every station employee how to break into the business. Most people will give you great advice or know someone who can help you.
The bottom line, it's up to you. You have to work extremely hard to be successful in TV, no matter what you'd like to do in the business.
Jeff Ehling
Consumer Reporter
KTRK ABC 13
