Final

            After almost completing my second semester of college, I feel that I learned more and more each week. For me, this semester has been about learning how to work new equipment and programs, meeting deadlines and finding a balance for everything in my schedule.

            Over the past semester I have become much more comfortable with a lot of the equipment. I have gone to different shoots and learned more about filming, getting b roll and working the mics. I saw how to shoot from different angles and perspectives. I learned the difference between a close up shot focusing on just one person and shooting the whole scene. In addition to the camera, I am now more familiar with the recorder for interviews. After doing a few different interviews, I saw how to form questions and have the interview develop.

            Throughout the semester I also learned a lot about different programs on the computer. I learned the basics of editing in Final Cut Pro. Originally, I didn’t realize how involved editing is, but it is very challenging. I learned the “basic formula” for putting together a good package. It should include natural sound, interview, different shots that all work together to form the story.

            The second thing I dealt with a lot this semester was meeting deadlines. Deadlines are something that I have always had to deal with in the past. However, this semester really put the pressure on to meet deadlines and make sure all of my work is completed by a specific time. The biggest example of this was working on the Interlachen. We had to work on layout, take pictures, shoot and write about different clubs, departments, and events. Besides just the Interlachen, there were more frequent deadlines working on Wellness TV. As opposed to one deadline at the end of the year, there is a deadline every other week to have the packages completed. This taught me that when I commit to something, it is crucial that I follow through.

            The next thing that I learned so far this semester was how to find a balance between all of my commitments. It’s a challenge to work, maintain my grades, study and do practicum hours. Part of this is setting goals for myself. If I know that deadlines are approaching I am able to set a number of practicum hours I need to complete each week and have a homework schedule set up. I was inspired by the organized calendars from both the Interlachen and Wellness TV, so I made one for myself. That really helped me in finding a balance.

            Overall, this semester, particularly the second half, has been full of learning experiences. I’ve learned more about working in groups, about working different equipment, and about working on things by myself. I feel that I am now more experienced, and ready to continue getting better in my major.