PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – When I was ten years old, I got an autograph from WAVY-TV 10 anchor, Tom Schaad, at Harborfest. Now, ten years later, I ended my first week as a WAVY newsroom intern standing with Tom at the 48th annual Harborfest practicing stand-ups and watching him interact with viewers.
I spent my first day here learning how things work and flow in the newsroom. This involved attending a meeting where reporters discuss story ideas. I also shadowed the assignment desk and the producers of the Midday and 4 p.m. shows.
On Wednesday, I went out on a story with WAVY anchor, Regina Mobley. She taught me that reporters always wear lipstick and to never chew gum when talking to someone. After conducting an interview, we each wrote a script for the story. I received feedback from my supervisor on my script and then shadowed Regina as she anchored the 4 p.m. show.
On Friday, I spent the day at Harborfest observing several crucial people from WAVY and how their jobs affect each other. I watched as the field producers communicated with people at the station about the rundown of the Midday show. The field producers shared the new information with anchor Marielena Balouris. The promotions team showed up prepared with WAVY merchandise and flags. Photographers searched for the best locations for live shots and stand-ups to make the reporters and anchors look good.
I got to see and experience the friendly and hardworking atmosphere that WAVY exudes. I look forward to learning more from this staff as the summer continues.
