Places to see before December 18th...
1. United States Capitol
2. White House (tour)
3. National Air and Space Museum
4. National Museum of American History
5. National Gallery of Art
6. Library of Congress
7. Mount Vernon
8. Arlington National Cemetery
9. National Zoo
10. Washington National Cathedral
11. Washington Monument
12. World War II Memorial
13. Lincoln Memorial
13. Crime and Punishment
14. International Spy Museum
15. Smithsonian
16. National Museum of Natural History
17. National Museum of the American Indian
18. United States Holocaust Museum
19. National Postal Museum
20. National Archives
21. Newseum
22. Textile Museum
23. Supreme Court
24. Jefferson Memorial
25. FDR Memorial
26. Korean War Veterans Memorial
27. US Navy Memorial
28. African-American Civil War Memorial
29. Iwo Jima Statue
30. US Botanic Gardens
31. National Arboretum
32. Old Town Alexandria
33. Georgetown
34. Georgetown Cupcakes
35. Pentagon
36. Pentagon City
37. Eastern Market
38. Mount Vernon Wine Festival
39. Union Station
40. The National Mall
....
Monday, August 30, 2010
“And I’m proud to be an American”
We have had the past few days off from our normal schedule of class discussions, site visits and daily blogs (which means from now on, the posts will be a little more candid about my experience here in D.C.). We took time to sleep, shop, eat, drink and of course, see some of the amazing sites this city has to offer!
On Friday night we went to the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G and truly made me proud to be an American. I was awed by the smooth stone, size, height, strength, history, beauty and everything else that surrounds these landmarks. The Washington Monument was everything I thought it was going to be. And then ten times cooler – the flags surrounding it and the lights lighting the pillar up…it took my breath away.
The World War II Memorial – who knew?? I had no idea about the pool of water at the center where you can cool your toes while taking in the surrounding granite stones. I quickly found the “Massachusetts” stone and took a picture (in case you were wondering, it is impossible to get the entire word in the shot at night because of the shadows – stupid 13 letter word!) And the Lincoln Memorial, the one I wanted to see more than anything, was so beautiful. Even though I had flashbacks to a movie where Lincoln’s monument actually starts giving verbal advice, I couldn’t help but wish I could have met this man who we know cherish (he has officially made it onto my guest list of people {dead or alive} I want to have dinner with.)
Unfortunately, we were not alone. We visited these monuments at 10 p.m. and hundreds of people were already camping out of the National Mall in preparation for the Glenn Beck rally the following morning…ehhh. I don’t have anything against Glenn Beck or anyone who listens to him or reads his books, but they were just so…annoyingly in the way. We also ventured out the next morning into Georgetown and that proved to be a huge mistake – Metro stops were packed and smelly, no one knew where to go - it was just chaos. Gross, annoying and completely unnecessary from what I watched on TV – but to each their own. I guess.
Additionally, today we spent the day (literally, the entire day) at the Newseum and only finished two of the six floors. This news museum “offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technology and hands-on exhibits” according to their website. Although things started off a little tough with a scavenger hunt – exhibits about 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, Elvis, the Berlin Wall and a 4-D (the 4th D involves the chair you are sitting in to move along with the movie) left me wanting more. Everything was amazingly well-done and thought out – please please please visit if you are ever in the D.C. area.
More sight-seeing during the next couple of days – hopefully heading out to Arlington National Cemetery by the end of the week. Oh and we also hope to get a sugary treat from the acclaimed, people-stand-outside-for-hours-to-get-a-cupcake, Georgetown Cupcake shop since we weren’t able to stand the heat on Saturday. Wish us luck and I will let you know what I think!
On Friday night we went to the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G and truly made me proud to be an American. I was awed by the smooth stone, size, height, strength, history, beauty and everything else that surrounds these landmarks. The Washington Monument was everything I thought it was going to be. And then ten times cooler – the flags surrounding it and the lights lighting the pillar up…it took my breath away.
The World War II Memorial – who knew?? I had no idea about the pool of water at the center where you can cool your toes while taking in the surrounding granite stones. I quickly found the “Massachusetts” stone and took a picture (in case you were wondering, it is impossible to get the entire word in the shot at night because of the shadows – stupid 13 letter word!) And the Lincoln Memorial, the one I wanted to see more than anything, was so beautiful. Even though I had flashbacks to a movie where Lincoln’s monument actually starts giving verbal advice, I couldn’t help but wish I could have met this man who we know cherish (he has officially made it onto my guest list of people {dead or alive} I want to have dinner with.)
Unfortunately, we were not alone. We visited these monuments at 10 p.m. and hundreds of people were already camping out of the National Mall in preparation for the Glenn Beck rally the following morning…ehhh. I don’t have anything against Glenn Beck or anyone who listens to him or reads his books, but they were just so…annoyingly in the way. We also ventured out the next morning into Georgetown and that proved to be a huge mistake – Metro stops were packed and smelly, no one knew where to go - it was just chaos. Gross, annoying and completely unnecessary from what I watched on TV – but to each their own. I guess.
Additionally, today we spent the day (literally, the entire day) at the Newseum and only finished two of the six floors. This news museum “offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technology and hands-on exhibits” according to their website. Although things started off a little tough with a scavenger hunt – exhibits about 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, Elvis, the Berlin Wall and a 4-D (the 4th D involves the chair you are sitting in to move along with the movie) left me wanting more. Everything was amazingly well-done and thought out – please please please visit if you are ever in the D.C. area.
More sight-seeing during the next couple of days – hopefully heading out to Arlington National Cemetery by the end of the week. Oh and we also hope to get a sugary treat from the acclaimed, people-stand-outside-for-hours-to-get-a-cupcake, Georgetown Cupcake shop since we weren’t able to stand the heat on Saturday. Wish us luck and I will let you know what I think!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
And Bob Schieffer will be your moderator….
We had our final discussion today about what we have learned while in Washington D.C. Oh, and Bob Schieffer facilitated our discussion. And our professors watched from Fort Worth. No pressure.
The entire conversation went very well – it was almost surprising how much information and advice we have absorbed. But we proved that we have learned something, even Bob seemed impressed. I think now, we each have to decide what we really want to do with the rest of our lives – both professionally and personally. Not that I have to make that decision right now, but as graduation draws closer…it become necessary to figure out what we are passionate about and what our ultimate dream is – then we have to prepare to make sacrifices to get there.
After living at this crazy pace for the past two weeks, I know we are all looking forward to taking some down time, enjoying the city and experiencing some of the attractions of D.C. I let you know how it goes :)
P.S. Bob wore his purple socks – score.
The entire conversation went very well – it was almost surprising how much information and advice we have absorbed. But we proved that we have learned something, even Bob seemed impressed. I think now, we each have to decide what we really want to do with the rest of our lives – both professionally and personally. Not that I have to make that decision right now, but as graduation draws closer…it become necessary to figure out what we are passionate about and what our ultimate dream is – then we have to prepare to make sacrifices to get there.
After living at this crazy pace for the past two weeks, I know we are all looking forward to taking some down time, enjoying the city and experiencing some of the attractions of D.C. I let you know how it goes :)
P.S. Bob wore his purple socks – score.
T-A-L-E-N-T.
I have heard over and over, “it isn’t always WHAT you know, but WHO you know.” It is important to meet the “right” people, build relationships and utilize those connections to assist with the transition from college to the professional workforce. This thought process doesn’t put much emphasis on the importance of talent – a unique, personal ability to go above and beyond in your chosen field – but after visiting “TBD” and “Politico” yesterday, I have learned that some very successful organizations understand the importance and power of having talented people throughout their organization.
“TBD” – local, local, local
This is an interesting start-up website that provides local content, engages its audience through social media and strives to provide information that specific people would like to know (i.e. an excellent iPhone application that tracks the Metro to the minute). Part of “TBD”’s immediate success is due to their partnership with a local TV station – this allows information to immediately be posted online and communicated via a news broadcast announcement.
We discussed their use of social media and every time I asked about it, I feel like I learn something more about this marketing and communication tool. Forums like facebook and Twitter are multipurpose – they can help the organization promote to and engage with an audience, monitor any chatter about a specific organization or product and finally, be used to find sources and stories about events that people care about. This is something “TBD” is doing on a daily basis and learning as they go about how to best serve their very local public.
TBD Faceboook
TBD Twitter
This website concept is brand new, and it is too early to tell how successful it will be (despite the fact it already has 3,500 followers on Twitter and people already know to reach out to “TBD” to receive as well as provide content) but perhaps in the future, there will be a TBD-Boston or TBD-Dallas…keep your eyes open.
"POLITICO" – Humble Success
Over the past two weeks, I have heard the name “Politico” roughly 50 times from our hosts. This extremely successful, powerful niche newspaper has become the most important news source of people inside the beltway to read (online and/or in print). The reason for their success – talented reporters. Jim VandeHei, co-founder of “Politico”, humbly said that he and his partner really just wanted to create a comprehensive, specialized political news source – and the Washington Post wasn’t giving them the opportunity to do just that. Having gifted reporters that can “drive the conversation” about politics is what good journalism and writing is all about.
Their print newspaper has more of an in-depth analysis of what is happening (and is VERY difficult to find) while their online version is more accessible. VandeHei stated that instead of the majority of their money being put into marketing, they invest the majority of their money into their reporters and allow them to become a brand – a powerful brand that increases the influence and prestige of “Politico.”
“TBD” and “Politico” represent a hopeful "golden age" future for journalism – offering a quality product that is in demand by a specific audience. Newspapers and their reporters should be a brand and it is something that a marketing department can promote easily. This is the future. Hopefully.
“TBD” – local, local, local
This is an interesting start-up website that provides local content, engages its audience through social media and strives to provide information that specific people would like to know (i.e. an excellent iPhone application that tracks the Metro to the minute). Part of “TBD”’s immediate success is due to their partnership with a local TV station – this allows information to immediately be posted online and communicated via a news broadcast announcement.
We discussed their use of social media and every time I asked about it, I feel like I learn something more about this marketing and communication tool. Forums like facebook and Twitter are multipurpose – they can help the organization promote to and engage with an audience, monitor any chatter about a specific organization or product and finally, be used to find sources and stories about events that people care about. This is something “TBD” is doing on a daily basis and learning as they go about how to best serve their very local public.
TBD Faceboook
TBD Twitter
This website concept is brand new, and it is too early to tell how successful it will be (despite the fact it already has 3,500 followers on Twitter and people already know to reach out to “TBD” to receive as well as provide content) but perhaps in the future, there will be a TBD-Boston or TBD-Dallas…keep your eyes open.
"POLITICO" – Humble Success
Over the past two weeks, I have heard the name “Politico” roughly 50 times from our hosts. This extremely successful, powerful niche newspaper has become the most important news source of people inside the beltway to read (online and/or in print). The reason for their success – talented reporters. Jim VandeHei, co-founder of “Politico”, humbly said that he and his partner really just wanted to create a comprehensive, specialized political news source – and the Washington Post wasn’t giving them the opportunity to do just that. Having gifted reporters that can “drive the conversation” about politics is what good journalism and writing is all about.
Their print newspaper has more of an in-depth analysis of what is happening (and is VERY difficult to find) while their online version is more accessible. VandeHei stated that instead of the majority of their money being put into marketing, they invest the majority of their money into their reporters and allow them to become a brand – a powerful brand that increases the influence and prestige of “Politico.”
“TBD” and “Politico” represent a hopeful "golden age" future for journalism – offering a quality product that is in demand by a specific audience. Newspapers and their reporters should be a brand and it is something that a marketing department can promote easily. This is the future. Hopefully.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
She writes, she shoots video, she talks on the radio, and she is on a TV news program…
She is an Associated Press reporter! Today we visited the AP Washington Bureau and for the first time I learned how news organizations are actively responding to the evolution of how people receive and respond to media. “Convergence” is THE hot button term in media and while this is being addressed on a an educational level (by allowing students to practice skill sets in a variety of different formats), professional organizations like AP are also training their reporters in different formats and making them as professionally versatile as possible.
AP is also using their reporters to create a new sense of brand awareness and influence in media. We talked about how half of the world’s population gets information from AP (print, online, mobile) but the majority of those people don’t realize that AP is the original source. There is an obvious disconnect and since AP generates the majority of its money from membership fees, maybe there hasn’t been as much (financial) pressure to address this issue. But it isn’t as simple as running a marketing campaign or using social media to reach a target audience - AP has to avoid becoming competition to its members – and therefore they can use their talented, respected and knowledgeable reporters to promote AP across print media, TV and radio.
I was surprised by how much AP does – print, video, radio, research, fact checking (accountability journalism) – they are much more than a wire service. They go beyond reporting just the facts. Their position, relation and influence on media (specifically political news in D.C.) reminded me of CSIS’s role in the creation of public policy – AP provides content, facilitates conversation and informs the public (through different formats of media) but mostly in the background. AP is slightly more vocal about receiving credit for their contributions but they aren’t in direct competition for readers. Their reputation and ability to be in so many places around the world where news may or may not occur makes AP extremely powerful and influential in the news media world.
I would have liked to ask more questions about their social media strategy – it was briefly mentioned that AP uses forums like facebook and Twitter to monitor for possible stories/sources and allow for the public to bring stories to their attention. This strategy is something that PR practitioners and organization representatives need to be aware of – social media is a multipurpose tool and can only be used effectively if users are aware of all potential uses.
A final thought: people want to engage with news they care most about. One of the AP representatives made an interesting comment about by providing raw content, specifically online, AP allows consumers to make their own judgments about the validity and importance of the story. Additionally, the general public responds better to raw content – not information influenced by a news organization or a reporter’s personal opinion. This goes back to a simple business practice – give consumers what they want…and I believe AP is evolving o doing just that.
AP is also using their reporters to create a new sense of brand awareness and influence in media. We talked about how half of the world’s population gets information from AP (print, online, mobile) but the majority of those people don’t realize that AP is the original source. There is an obvious disconnect and since AP generates the majority of its money from membership fees, maybe there hasn’t been as much (financial) pressure to address this issue. But it isn’t as simple as running a marketing campaign or using social media to reach a target audience - AP has to avoid becoming competition to its members – and therefore they can use their talented, respected and knowledgeable reporters to promote AP across print media, TV and radio.
I was surprised by how much AP does – print, video, radio, research, fact checking (accountability journalism) – they are much more than a wire service. They go beyond reporting just the facts. Their position, relation and influence on media (specifically political news in D.C.) reminded me of CSIS’s role in the creation of public policy – AP provides content, facilitates conversation and informs the public (through different formats of media) but mostly in the background. AP is slightly more vocal about receiving credit for their contributions but they aren’t in direct competition for readers. Their reputation and ability to be in so many places around the world where news may or may not occur makes AP extremely powerful and influential in the news media world.
I would have liked to ask more questions about their social media strategy – it was briefly mentioned that AP uses forums like facebook and Twitter to monitor for possible stories/sources and allow for the public to bring stories to their attention. This strategy is something that PR practitioners and organization representatives need to be aware of – social media is a multipurpose tool and can only be used effectively if users are aware of all potential uses.
A final thought: people want to engage with news they care most about. One of the AP representatives made an interesting comment about by providing raw content, specifically online, AP allows consumers to make their own judgments about the validity and importance of the story. Additionally, the general public responds better to raw content – not information influenced by a news organization or a reporter’s personal opinion. This goes back to a simple business practice – give consumers what they want…and I believe AP is evolving o doing just that.
Monday, August 23, 2010
CSIS - The New Intermediary
Now that I have been in Washington for a week, it has become obvious to me that the political process is much more complex than I had ever imagined. People are always rushing, informing, debating, advising, pushing… every minute of every day relates to politics in some way. It makes me, as an outsider, wonder how people have enough time in their days to do so much – well organizations like The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) help make this fast political craziness possible.
As one of D.C.’s most respected and recognized think tanks, CSIS “provides strategic insights and policy solutions to decision makers in government, international institutions, the private sector, and civil society” (according to their website). This self-proclaimed bipartisan think tank conducts research and analysis on hot button issues and develops future policy initiatives. But what the heck is a THINK TANK??
Basically, once people reach a certain position in the political sphere, they have so many responsibilities that there is no time to research, plan and develop new public policies. This is where organizations like CSIS step in and provide research and insight to shape policy specifically in regards to foreign policy, national security and global challenges (i.e. energy and security).
CSIS also acts as a facilitator of conversation, which is why I would qualify them as a developing intermediary between policy makers, media and the public. While at Pew on Thursday, we talked about how companies (advertisers specifically) no longer need traditional news media sources (print newspapers and TV) to be an intermediary for reaching their target market. But it seems that CSIS has such an intellectual and analytical influence of the creation of public policy that they could be the future intermediary or gatekeeper who creates and facilitates creative conversation. Additionally, their scholars and employees work to promote public policy to ensure that nothing falls through the cracks while other issues demand the attention of key political players. CSIS is a research based organization that works diligently to remain at the center of the political party continuum and are doing an excellent job of creating conversation, involving the necessary people and providing the research to support the formation of policies. I believe CSIS is a necessary part of today's political process and I didn't realize just how important until two hours ago.
On the other hand, I was disappointed that they don't see the benefits of having an established presence on Twitter. During our two hour meeting, CSIS representatives mentioned several events and reports that could have been promoted via Twitter and increased their overall brand value. Instead they used e-mail blasts and relied on their reputation in the D.C. area. One of the objectives for their multimedia and social media strategy is to increase their presence outside the beltway - what better way to engage with people outside the district then via the FREE Internet? Perhaps Twitter’s reputation isn’t well-regarded but a strategic Twitter presence could bring prestige to the forum while providing CSIS with increased exposure. I understand they deal with numbers, complex and sensitive issues, but people are moving to the Internet quickly, CSIS should be ahead of the curve.
The site visit was very informative but I wish I could have learned more about their personal opinions on issues like privacy, national security in relation to the wikileaks scandal and how they see social media being used to conduct diplomacy (beyond what is already being done). Great hosts though – be sure to “LIKE” the CSIS facebook page after you finish this blog – also check out their iTunesU account.
As one of D.C.’s most respected and recognized think tanks, CSIS “provides strategic insights and policy solutions to decision makers in government, international institutions, the private sector, and civil society” (according to their website). This self-proclaimed bipartisan think tank conducts research and analysis on hot button issues and develops future policy initiatives. But what the heck is a THINK TANK??
Basically, once people reach a certain position in the political sphere, they have so many responsibilities that there is no time to research, plan and develop new public policies. This is where organizations like CSIS step in and provide research and insight to shape policy specifically in regards to foreign policy, national security and global challenges (i.e. energy and security).
CSIS also acts as a facilitator of conversation, which is why I would qualify them as a developing intermediary between policy makers, media and the public. While at Pew on Thursday, we talked about how companies (advertisers specifically) no longer need traditional news media sources (print newspapers and TV) to be an intermediary for reaching their target market. But it seems that CSIS has such an intellectual and analytical influence of the creation of public policy that they could be the future intermediary or gatekeeper who creates and facilitates creative conversation. Additionally, their scholars and employees work to promote public policy to ensure that nothing falls through the cracks while other issues demand the attention of key political players. CSIS is a research based organization that works diligently to remain at the center of the political party continuum and are doing an excellent job of creating conversation, involving the necessary people and providing the research to support the formation of policies. I believe CSIS is a necessary part of today's political process and I didn't realize just how important until two hours ago.
On the other hand, I was disappointed that they don't see the benefits of having an established presence on Twitter. During our two hour meeting, CSIS representatives mentioned several events and reports that could have been promoted via Twitter and increased their overall brand value. Instead they used e-mail blasts and relied on their reputation in the D.C. area. One of the objectives for their multimedia and social media strategy is to increase their presence outside the beltway - what better way to engage with people outside the district then via the FREE Internet? Perhaps Twitter’s reputation isn’t well-regarded but a strategic Twitter presence could bring prestige to the forum while providing CSIS with increased exposure. I understand they deal with numbers, complex and sensitive issues, but people are moving to the Internet quickly, CSIS should be ahead of the curve.
The site visit was very informative but I wish I could have learned more about their personal opinions on issues like privacy, national security in relation to the wikileaks scandal and how they see social media being used to conduct diplomacy (beyond what is already being done). Great hosts though – be sure to “LIKE” the CSIS facebook page after you finish this blog – also check out their iTunesU account.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
5, 4, 3, 2 and 1...
The taping of Face the Nation with Bob Schieffer was an experience. Excitement, humor, hustle, bustle, time pressures, enthusiasm – everything you would expect a in a network TV control room. It’s amazing how much preparation and work there is that goes into a 30-minute news broadcast and today’s episode was particularly challenging. In Bob’s words, they were trying to fit 8 pounds into a 6 pound bag, but every pound was enthralling.
General Odierno and South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham started the show off by talking about the war in Afghanistan. Sen. Graham, who is on the Armed Services Committee, changed his position by stating he thinks we CAN safely withdraw based on the progress he saw during his recent visit to Afghanistan. Odierno’s interview was also optimistic as he offered his thoughts on whether he thought we won the war Iraq as the final U.S. combat forces prepare to leave the country (see his comments and the entire broadcast here). It was interesting to be in the control room while I was learning about this information as opposed to sitting in front of a TV – it increased the importance of the information, made me feel the immediacy and magnitude of the situation.
Then Bob interviewed a slightly nervous Greg Mortenson, author of “Three Cups of Tea” (this is now required reading for the armed forces) and “Stones into Schools”. Mortenson, despite the butterflies, did an amazing job sharing his story: while climbing a mountain in Pakistan in 1993, he became ill and was nursed back to health by local villagers. When he asked how he could repay them, they requested his help with building a school. Since then, he has raised about $25 million dollars and built more than 150 schools, seven of which are currently under construction.
This man is a hero – making education available, especially for girls, in places where education might come secondary to survival. He emphasized the importance of involving locals, especially the elders, in the creation of the schools (or any other concept American troops are trying to implement) because that is how their culture works. I couldn’t help but wonder, what the war would have looked like if we started off with this concept earlier – what state would Afghanistan or Iraq be in if we had?
Mortenson also shared a wonderful story after the broadcast. A young woman, who graduated from one of the schools, received medical training in pre-and post-natal care (which only cost $800 dollars) and was able to return to the village and decrease the annual average number of 20 women dying from pregnancy related issues to ZERO (and has continued to do that for the past 10 years). This man clearly has a passion for what he does and I wish him the best of luck with everything in the future. He will be visiting TCU in January – keep your eyes open!!
Talking with Bob after tapping emphasized the impact network broadcast has on the political system – he mentioned a phone call he received from the White House. They had "concerns" about his interview General Odierno, which turned out to be nothing more then network competition, but it showed how interconnected media is with political news, especially in D.C.
Another great day – capping off an excellent first week in Washington.
General Odierno and South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham started the show off by talking about the war in Afghanistan. Sen. Graham, who is on the Armed Services Committee, changed his position by stating he thinks we CAN safely withdraw based on the progress he saw during his recent visit to Afghanistan. Odierno’s interview was also optimistic as he offered his thoughts on whether he thought we won the war Iraq as the final U.S. combat forces prepare to leave the country (see his comments and the entire broadcast here). It was interesting to be in the control room while I was learning about this information as opposed to sitting in front of a TV – it increased the importance of the information, made me feel the immediacy and magnitude of the situation.
Then Bob interviewed a slightly nervous Greg Mortenson, author of “Three Cups of Tea” (this is now required reading for the armed forces) and “Stones into Schools”. Mortenson, despite the butterflies, did an amazing job sharing his story: while climbing a mountain in Pakistan in 1993, he became ill and was nursed back to health by local villagers. When he asked how he could repay them, they requested his help with building a school. Since then, he has raised about $25 million dollars and built more than 150 schools, seven of which are currently under construction.
This man is a hero – making education available, especially for girls, in places where education might come secondary to survival. He emphasized the importance of involving locals, especially the elders, in the creation of the schools (or any other concept American troops are trying to implement) because that is how their culture works. I couldn’t help but wonder, what the war would have looked like if we started off with this concept earlier – what state would Afghanistan or Iraq be in if we had?
Mortenson also shared a wonderful story after the broadcast. A young woman, who graduated from one of the schools, received medical training in pre-and post-natal care (which only cost $800 dollars) and was able to return to the village and decrease the annual average number of 20 women dying from pregnancy related issues to ZERO (and has continued to do that for the past 10 years). This man clearly has a passion for what he does and I wish him the best of luck with everything in the future. He will be visiting TCU in January – keep your eyes open!!
Talking with Bob after tapping emphasized the impact network broadcast has on the political system – he mentioned a phone call he received from the White House. They had "concerns" about his interview General Odierno, which turned out to be nothing more then network competition, but it showed how interconnected media is with political news, especially in D.C.
Another great day – capping off an excellent first week in Washington.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
I'm driving the Metro Home
Finally, two days off from the constant "go, go, go" pace we have been keeping for the past five days. Friday was a slow day, but when we finally started going the whole group headed out to Ballston for drinks, The Switch and PF Changs to finish out the night. I can't count the number of times I have said I can't go out to eat anymore, and yet we just keep finding new places to try....
The Switch was a cute movie that definitely redeemed Jennifer Aniston after "The Bounty Hunter" freak accident...and the little boy, Thomas Robinson, was unbelievably amazing in his role. "Beady- eyed little man-boy, beady-eyed little man-boy, beady-eyed little man-boy looking at me" - it was just entertaining and feel-good.
Today, we headed to Baltimore to eat at Obrycki's, which has EXCELLENT crab cakes and was featured in the Discovery Channel's Man vs. Food - and for a good reason. Best crab cake I have ever had and I am thankful we traveled to the scarier side of town to experience this heavenly meal!
Then we headed off to a baseball game - the Texas Rangers were playing Baltimore and lost...so we headed out earlier. Best part of the game: the three little boys sitting behind us telling their dad all the reasons why they need to go to Fenway Park and sit on the Green Monster for a Red Sox game...my little Bostonian heart just went pitter-patter with pride.
Tomorrow we are off to the taping of this weeks Face the Nation with Bob Schieffer. Greg Mortenson, author of "Three Cups of Tea", will be on and it should be a very interesting discussion. Tune in and see if Bob mentions us - 10:30 EST on CBS.
The Switch was a cute movie that definitely redeemed Jennifer Aniston after "The Bounty Hunter" freak accident...and the little boy, Thomas Robinson, was unbelievably amazing in his role. "Beady- eyed little man-boy, beady-eyed little man-boy, beady-eyed little man-boy looking at me" - it was just entertaining and feel-good.
Today, we headed to Baltimore to eat at Obrycki's, which has EXCELLENT crab cakes and was featured in the Discovery Channel's Man vs. Food - and for a good reason. Best crab cake I have ever had and I am thankful we traveled to the scarier side of town to experience this heavenly meal!
Then we headed off to a baseball game - the Texas Rangers were playing Baltimore and lost...so we headed out earlier. Best part of the game: the three little boys sitting behind us telling their dad all the reasons why they need to go to Fenway Park and sit on the Green Monster for a Red Sox game...my little Bostonian heart just went pitter-patter with pride.
Tomorrow we are off to the taping of this weeks Face the Nation with Bob Schieffer. Greg Mortenson, author of "Three Cups of Tea", will be on and it should be a very interesting discussion. Tune in and see if Bob mentions us - 10:30 EST on CBS.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
The Freshman 15 of News
Today’s meeting with Tom Rosenstiel, Director of the Project for Excellence in Journalism at the Pew Research Center, was, in my opinion, by far the best two hour site visit we have had in D.C. (CBS comes in a close second). At lunch, we pleaded with Dr. K to ask Bob Schieffer if he could possibly set up another meeting so we can pick Rosenstiel’s brain just a little more. Additionally, I would pay good money to be a fly on the wall during any conversation that Bob Schieffer and Tom Rosenstiel would have – it would be the meeting of unique insights, opinions and predictions by men who have spent their life working to make journalism and public communication better.
Pew Research Center (Pew) is an independent, non-biased public opinion research organization that specializes in research about the public’s attitude towards politics, the press and public policy. The Pew is funded by The Pew Charitable Trust, not the organizations that use the collected data, which means all information is made public and remains accurate and non-partisan. Pew’s research and data analysis does have some media effect by keeping track of how, why and when people do what they do in relation to news and politics.
One of the most interesting statements Rosenstiel made today was: “Old media doesn’t have an audience problem, it has a revenue problem.” Every class I have taken in college has put a lot more emphasis on audience fragmentation and less on advertising dollars being down. But the decrease in revenue is why newspapers are suffering and in contrast the newspaper audience is indeed growing. However, more and more advertising dollars are pushed to the Internet and newer forms of technology (i.e. mobile and iPad). Additionally, the biggest change has been that companies and advertisers don’t need to use news media (newspapers and even TV) to reach their intended audience anymore. Everything has moved to the “free world” – for example classified ads made up the biggest portion of a newspaper’s ad revenue but now, 70% of those ads have moved to the internet on sites like Craigslist – leaving newspapers with nothing to fill the void.
But not all is lost. News media (both print newspapers and traditional news TV) have a place in our world and they are necessary. Rosenstiel has a new book coming out in November of this year called “Blur: How to Know What's True in the Age of Information Overload” and he talks about 8 different functions that journalism and public communication will continue to have. He made a point of talking about how news and information consumption is becoming more and more consumer driven – we can no longer “get away with” slipping messages and information in to broadcasts or ads. Instead, as future professionals, we need to more creative, more innovative and more aware of what consumers want and be able to provide it maybe even before consumers know they want it (Hard to do – yes. Impossible. No.)The essential elements of journalism and communication will continue to be important to the public – there is hope.
Another interesting statement he made was about what the future holds and how current media and news organizations can become the visionary and leader of a this necessary evolution. Rosenstiel said that companies will need to become part news/journalism and part engineering – it is a mind-set and a way of thinking that allows for creative possibilities to see the light of day. We have heard about decreasing viewership, fragmentation, the need for revolution and leadership…now we have heard about the possible solutions. I felt smarter after this meeting. I felt excited for my future career after this meeting. I felt motivated after this meeting. This man was extremely intelligent and was able to break down complex issues into simple terms that we could understand, appreciate and interpret. I was disappointed when our time was up, even though we kept him for an extra hour, and I hope we will have the opportunity to talk with him again. I would love to ask if he sees the newspaper industry becoming more fragmented like TV and if he thinks that 3D television will have any impact before everything moves to the computer and – I could just go on for days. A truly inspirational experience – I’m ready to begin.
Check out this website (www.tbd.com), a completely online newspaper sponsored by Politico in Washington D.C. that is supposed to be direct competition for the number one print newspaper, The Washington Post. It will be interesting to see how successful this experiment is and could possibly determine the future of newspapers.
Pew Research Center (Pew) is an independent, non-biased public opinion research organization that specializes in research about the public’s attitude towards politics, the press and public policy. The Pew is funded by The Pew Charitable Trust, not the organizations that use the collected data, which means all information is made public and remains accurate and non-partisan. Pew’s research and data analysis does have some media effect by keeping track of how, why and when people do what they do in relation to news and politics.
One of the most interesting statements Rosenstiel made today was: “Old media doesn’t have an audience problem, it has a revenue problem.” Every class I have taken in college has put a lot more emphasis on audience fragmentation and less on advertising dollars being down. But the decrease in revenue is why newspapers are suffering and in contrast the newspaper audience is indeed growing. However, more and more advertising dollars are pushed to the Internet and newer forms of technology (i.e. mobile and iPad). Additionally, the biggest change has been that companies and advertisers don’t need to use news media (newspapers and even TV) to reach their intended audience anymore. Everything has moved to the “free world” – for example classified ads made up the biggest portion of a newspaper’s ad revenue but now, 70% of those ads have moved to the internet on sites like Craigslist – leaving newspapers with nothing to fill the void.
But not all is lost. News media (both print newspapers and traditional news TV) have a place in our world and they are necessary. Rosenstiel has a new book coming out in November of this year called “Blur: How to Know What's True in the Age of Information Overload” and he talks about 8 different functions that journalism and public communication will continue to have. He made a point of talking about how news and information consumption is becoming more and more consumer driven – we can no longer “get away with” slipping messages and information in to broadcasts or ads. Instead, as future professionals, we need to more creative, more innovative and more aware of what consumers want and be able to provide it maybe even before consumers know they want it (Hard to do – yes. Impossible. No.)The essential elements of journalism and communication will continue to be important to the public – there is hope.
Another interesting statement he made was about what the future holds and how current media and news organizations can become the visionary and leader of a this necessary evolution. Rosenstiel said that companies will need to become part news/journalism and part engineering – it is a mind-set and a way of thinking that allows for creative possibilities to see the light of day. We have heard about decreasing viewership, fragmentation, the need for revolution and leadership…now we have heard about the possible solutions. I felt smarter after this meeting. I felt excited for my future career after this meeting. I felt motivated after this meeting. This man was extremely intelligent and was able to break down complex issues into simple terms that we could understand, appreciate and interpret. I was disappointed when our time was up, even though we kept him for an extra hour, and I hope we will have the opportunity to talk with him again. I would love to ask if he sees the newspaper industry becoming more fragmented like TV and if he thinks that 3D television will have any impact before everything moves to the computer and – I could just go on for days. A truly inspirational experience – I’m ready to begin.
Check out this website (www.tbd.com), a completely online newspaper sponsored by Politico in Washington D.C. that is supposed to be direct competition for the number one print newspaper, The Washington Post. It will be interesting to see how successful this experiment is and could possibly determine the future of newspapers.
"Case by Case"
Day 3 and we had the opportunity to visit with a trade association as well as a private lobbying firm. I was looking forward to having opportunity to talk about new media, strategic planning and other issues concerning the fields of strategic communication.
First, we went to TechAmerica, a trade association that represents the IT industry, both nationally and internationally. They admitted to being “dirty lobbyists” but they advocate for flexibility and growth within the technology industry. Jason Langsner, VP of Marketing and Charlie Greenwald, VP of Communication, offered their personal and professional opinions on issues like the impact of social media, specific legislation that could affect the technology industry and how IT companies need to deal with the issue of privacy in the future. I thought it was interesting how TechAmerica was “protected” from bad PR because they represent an industry. And although I don’t think “any press is good press” is a theory that should be promoted in the world of politics or corporate public relations, I can understand why they like it – 50,000 more eyes on any story or subject is 50,000 more eyes then they had before. Additionally, with an industry like technology, people are pro-technology, which makes it easier to be heard on the Hill. At least for now.
I also found it interesting that both Jason and Charlie seemed young for their high-level position and how small the entire TechAmerica staff was (Jason indicated at one time there were 7.5 people working in the Marketing team and now it was only him, wearing several different hats). I would have thought that for such a big industry that has so many different issues, worries and concerns, that TechAmerica would need a lot of manpower to successfully represent IT on the Hill.
Clearly, this organization does influence the political system – evidence by their recent work with quieting a bill in Maine that wanted cell phone boxes to have a warning label on them about the relationship between cancer and the use of the cell phone. I was also slightly disappointed by how long it took TechAmerica to get onto social media sites and how flippant they were about not having a strategic social media plan established before they went online.
We also went to mCapitol Management on Wednesday afternoon and unfortunately I didn’t glean much insight from this meeting. I appreciated them taking the time to talk to us and did find the advice about how to move from college life to the professional world helpful. I would have liked to ask them how the develop relationships with the clients and whether mCapitol Management recruits or if companies seek them out – although they might not have been able to answer my question since they deal with the private sector, which is understandable.
So far the score for the day was dead even – a good visit and a bad one. After an excellent 3-hour dinner at Smith & Wollensky – it was clearly a GREAT day.
First, we went to TechAmerica, a trade association that represents the IT industry, both nationally and internationally. They admitted to being “dirty lobbyists” but they advocate for flexibility and growth within the technology industry. Jason Langsner, VP of Marketing and Charlie Greenwald, VP of Communication, offered their personal and professional opinions on issues like the impact of social media, specific legislation that could affect the technology industry and how IT companies need to deal with the issue of privacy in the future. I thought it was interesting how TechAmerica was “protected” from bad PR because they represent an industry. And although I don’t think “any press is good press” is a theory that should be promoted in the world of politics or corporate public relations, I can understand why they like it – 50,000 more eyes on any story or subject is 50,000 more eyes then they had before. Additionally, with an industry like technology, people are pro-technology, which makes it easier to be heard on the Hill. At least for now.
I also found it interesting that both Jason and Charlie seemed young for their high-level position and how small the entire TechAmerica staff was (Jason indicated at one time there were 7.5 people working in the Marketing team and now it was only him, wearing several different hats). I would have thought that for such a big industry that has so many different issues, worries and concerns, that TechAmerica would need a lot of manpower to successfully represent IT on the Hill.
Clearly, this organization does influence the political system – evidence by their recent work with quieting a bill in Maine that wanted cell phone boxes to have a warning label on them about the relationship between cancer and the use of the cell phone. I was also slightly disappointed by how long it took TechAmerica to get onto social media sites and how flippant they were about not having a strategic social media plan established before they went online.
We also went to mCapitol Management on Wednesday afternoon and unfortunately I didn’t glean much insight from this meeting. I appreciated them taking the time to talk to us and did find the advice about how to move from college life to the professional world helpful. I would have liked to ask them how the develop relationships with the clients and whether mCapitol Management recruits or if companies seek them out – although they might not have been able to answer my question since they deal with the private sector, which is understandable.
So far the score for the day was dead even – a good visit and a bad one. After an excellent 3-hour dinner at Smith & Wollensky – it was clearly a GREAT day.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
CBS goes Purple
It was a proud day to be a HORNED FROG! We arrived at the CBS News bureau (15 minutes early – an accomplishment after our directionally challenged adventures yesterday) this morning with high expectations – we weren't disappointed!
Mr. Bob Schieffer’s memorabilia-filled office offered the perfect back drop for our conversation which included everything from how his journalistic career started to the current political climate. We sat in comfortable worn-leather chairs and couches as different members of the CBS news organization stopped by. After an hour, I was on an information overload – so many amazing stories, examples and advice, I almost couldn’t keep up with everything. Nonetheless, I walked out of the CBS office today with a whole new appreciation for journalists AND a better understanding of the importance of developing a relationship with them during my public relations career.
I enjoyed talking with and learning about the career of CBS Legal Correspondent Jan Crawford. She offered a unique perspective on journalism as a career because she came to CBS via law school. She started at the "Chicago Tribune", began Law School at the University of Chicago, went back to the Tribune, made her way to Washington and CBS, moved to ABC for a few years and is now back where she belongs – at CBS. Her expertise and the respect she gained over the year’s shows the importance of understanding the complexities of the topics you are communicating and/or reporting on.
Additionally, she offered insight into the tough balancing act of having an successful career while having a family. Even Bob commented on how he missed out on his children growing up and the importance of being prepared to make sacrifices. This was oddly comforting and disconcerting – on one hand we know others have gone through similar experiences and survived making difficult, often life-changing decisions. On the other hand, Bob and Jan were blunt about how there WILL BE difficult compromises that could lead to having regrets about your personal and/or professional life.
I also enjoyed learning more about the news process – being a PR person, I was enthralled with stats like CBS running for four days straight after 9/11 and having the opportunity to watch a taping of the CBS daily web cast "Washington Unplugged" (view the video from today here). It was also interesting to listen to their past experiences (both in Bob’s office and at lunch) and future predictions of what will happen in the future to our fields.
I should have asked more questions about how journalists develop relationships with PR professionals and what qualities they look for in potential PR sources. I also wish we could have talked more about how the networks are no longer gatekeepers for news, especially political news, but instead working to prevent bloggers and social media forums from communicating inaccurate, partisan information.I think that CBS has now become an authority that communicates information that has been checked and re-checked.
Beyond that, the whole day was insightful and educational. I am more excited than ever to spend the next four months in this professional, political environment. Note: Bob was wearing a TCU purple, horned frog tie, but not his legendary purple socks. This was a minor let-down but I was gratified by Jan sporting a deep purple shirt for the web cast - Go Frogs!
Mr. Bob Schieffer’s memorabilia-filled office offered the perfect back drop for our conversation which included everything from how his journalistic career started to the current political climate. We sat in comfortable worn-leather chairs and couches as different members of the CBS news organization stopped by. After an hour, I was on an information overload – so many amazing stories, examples and advice, I almost couldn’t keep up with everything. Nonetheless, I walked out of the CBS office today with a whole new appreciation for journalists AND a better understanding of the importance of developing a relationship with them during my public relations career.
I enjoyed talking with and learning about the career of CBS Legal Correspondent Jan Crawford. She offered a unique perspective on journalism as a career because she came to CBS via law school. She started at the "Chicago Tribune", began Law School at the University of Chicago, went back to the Tribune, made her way to Washington and CBS, moved to ABC for a few years and is now back where she belongs – at CBS. Her expertise and the respect she gained over the year’s shows the importance of understanding the complexities of the topics you are communicating and/or reporting on.
Additionally, she offered insight into the tough balancing act of having an successful career while having a family. Even Bob commented on how he missed out on his children growing up and the importance of being prepared to make sacrifices. This was oddly comforting and disconcerting – on one hand we know others have gone through similar experiences and survived making difficult, often life-changing decisions. On the other hand, Bob and Jan were blunt about how there WILL BE difficult compromises that could lead to having regrets about your personal and/or professional life.
I also enjoyed learning more about the news process – being a PR person, I was enthralled with stats like CBS running for four days straight after 9/11 and having the opportunity to watch a taping of the CBS daily web cast "Washington Unplugged" (view the video from today here). It was also interesting to listen to their past experiences (both in Bob’s office and at lunch) and future predictions of what will happen in the future to our fields.
I should have asked more questions about how journalists develop relationships with PR professionals and what qualities they look for in potential PR sources. I also wish we could have talked more about how the networks are no longer gatekeepers for news, especially political news, but instead working to prevent bloggers and social media forums from communicating inaccurate, partisan information.I think that CBS has now become an authority that communicates information that has been checked and re-checked.
Beyond that, the whole day was insightful and educational. I am more excited than ever to spend the next four months in this professional, political environment. Note: Bob was wearing a TCU purple, horned frog tie, but not his legendary purple socks. This was a minor let-down but I was gratified by Jan sporting a deep purple shirt for the web cast - Go Frogs!
Monday, August 16, 2010
RNC vs. DNC
Before visiting the committee headquarters today, I thought the Republican National Committee (RNC) and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) used communication tools in a similar manner. However, after talking with RNC and DNC Communication department/team representatives and visiting their respective website and social media pages, it is apparent that these committees have different communication agendas.
The RNC concentrates on supporting Republican candidates in states elections, running communication campaigns against Democratic leadership in Congress (to see this for yourself – visit the RNC headquarters to see a massive red and white “FIRE PELOSI” poster above the main entrance) and building relationships with the press to gain coverage on specific topics and relevant issues. The DNC’s communication department also focuses on monitoring and pitching stories to the press and offers support to the state Democratic candidates up for election in 78 days (not that anyone is counting). In addition to that, the DNC also communicates through their grass root network, established social media forum and emerging political monitoring techniques (Accountability Project) to engage their audience and the press core.
The difference between these two communication agendas might be obvious – one has the president in the White House. But I believe the difference goes beyond who has the majority or minority and has more to do with the fundamentals of each Party.
The RNC seemed dated both in their communication techniques and general appearance. We talked about print and radio (traditional media outlets) with the RNC but didn’t address newer forms of communication or how the committee could take a more proactive stance when supporting campaigns and candidates. The dark wood paneling, campaign memorabilia and pictures of Ronald Regan and George W. Bush reminding members of better political times made me feel uneasy. The representatives were professionally dressed (while the DNC employees wore jeans and T-shirts) were friendly and informative (while the DNC was more friendly, informative AND relevant) and finally, slightly reserved when it came to discussing topics like Sarah Palin and the Tea Party (while the DNC representatives seemed more comfortable talking about different topics – although in truth we didn’t really ask any “tough” questions).
I would have liked to ask the RNC more about their social media initiatives - although the representatives we had this morning might not have been the best qualified to address that specific issue. I would have also like to ask both committees why their websites are so abrasive about asking for volunteers and donations before visitors even have the chance to learn more about the mission statement or goals of the committee. I understand the importance (and annoyance) of fund raising but, the emphasis on making a donation really turned me off.
Finally, one statement bothered me today: “any press is good press”. As a future Public Relations practitioner I believe that good press is good press and bad press is bad press. You will always have both, but having a strategic plan, a transparent relationship with your audience and an excellent crisis management team will create more of the former and less of the latter.
Thank you to the Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee for taking the time to talk with us today. It was a great introduction to the political sphere. Best of luck in the coming months.
The RNC concentrates on supporting Republican candidates in states elections, running communication campaigns against Democratic leadership in Congress (to see this for yourself – visit the RNC headquarters to see a massive red and white “FIRE PELOSI” poster above the main entrance) and building relationships with the press to gain coverage on specific topics and relevant issues. The DNC’s communication department also focuses on monitoring and pitching stories to the press and offers support to the state Democratic candidates up for election in 78 days (not that anyone is counting). In addition to that, the DNC also communicates through their grass root network, established social media forum and emerging political monitoring techniques (Accountability Project) to engage their audience and the press core.
The difference between these two communication agendas might be obvious – one has the president in the White House. But I believe the difference goes beyond who has the majority or minority and has more to do with the fundamentals of each Party.
The RNC seemed dated both in their communication techniques and general appearance. We talked about print and radio (traditional media outlets) with the RNC but didn’t address newer forms of communication or how the committee could take a more proactive stance when supporting campaigns and candidates. The dark wood paneling, campaign memorabilia and pictures of Ronald Regan and George W. Bush reminding members of better political times made me feel uneasy. The representatives were professionally dressed (while the DNC employees wore jeans and T-shirts) were friendly and informative (while the DNC was more friendly, informative AND relevant) and finally, slightly reserved when it came to discussing topics like Sarah Palin and the Tea Party (while the DNC representatives seemed more comfortable talking about different topics – although in truth we didn’t really ask any “tough” questions).
I would have liked to ask the RNC more about their social media initiatives - although the representatives we had this morning might not have been the best qualified to address that specific issue. I would have also like to ask both committees why their websites are so abrasive about asking for volunteers and donations before visitors even have the chance to learn more about the mission statement or goals of the committee. I understand the importance (and annoyance) of fund raising but, the emphasis on making a donation really turned me off.
Finally, one statement bothered me today: “any press is good press”. As a future Public Relations practitioner I believe that good press is good press and bad press is bad press. You will always have both, but having a strategic plan, a transparent relationship with your audience and an excellent crisis management team will create more of the former and less of the latter.
Thank you to the Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee for taking the time to talk with us today. It was a great introduction to the political sphere. Best of luck in the coming months.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
And so it begins...
Washington D.C.
It is a loaded name that calls to mind politics, history and scandal. Growing up in Massachusetts, I never had the opportunity to visit our nation’s capital and it took me going to college in Texas to finally get the motivation. To say that I am excited doesn’t do my emotions justice. D.C. has so much to offer, or I have been told that D.C. has so much to offer by friends and a variety of travel books I have been studying. I look forward to experiencing as much of the history, culture and food (I have heard the food is AMAZING and have been saving my pennies all summer to be able to afford my impending expensive lifestyle) as possible.
This summer I worked for Philips, an international lighting, healthcare and electronics company that is based in the Netherlands. I worked in the Healthcare sector, as an Online Marketing/Web Content Support Intern (try saying that 5 times fast…). My main job was to help localize their healthcare website in over 20 different countries. This involved updating pages, communicating with the different country site owners and working with technical support on any issues within the site. My boss was in the Netherlands. My boss’s boss was in the Netherlands. My boss’s boss’s boss…I think you get the picture. Basically, I am ready to work with and learn from people who were the same country as me – maybe even the same city or state.
Additionally, I wanted my internship in D.C. to be a stepping-stone, or maybe a launch pad into a career post-graduation (which happens to be in a mere 9 months, not that anyone is counting or freaking out) and my main goal was to work on my writing. I am Strategic Communication major, which is a futuristic term for Public Relations and Advertising, and hope to work specifically in Corporate Social Responsibility (an emerging field in PR that aligns social issues/non-profit organizations (i.e. The American Heart Association) with private sector corporations (i.e. Diet Coke – you might have seen their Red Dress campaign…AMAZING). So far, my formula for my perfect internship experience in D.C. looks like this:
A - Work directly with/for people in U.S.
B - Work for a smaller company (25 or less employees)
C - Have the opportunity to build my writing portfolio
D - Do something related to social/political issues
E - Have the opportunity to network and experience D.C.’s professional world
F - Work for a respected-motivated-competitive firm that lets me do more then get coffee
Therefore, A +B+C+D+E+F X a short commute = TRICOM ASSOCIATES. I finalized everything on August 3rd and officially accepted. After two months of always waiting for something better to come along, I got the best. I will now shamelessly plug my future/temporary employer’s website – www.tricomassociates.com.
Despite my excitement, I am also hesitant. It will be…different living in a city full-time. It is an unknown place filled with unknown people and unknown threats. It will also be challenging – taking two classes, working almost 40 hours a week and finding time to explore what D.C. has to offer. It is a fear of the unknown, fear of something different and ultimately, the fear of failure. But, I found a saying once that always made me stop worrying and start doing (I actually wrote it on my high school graduation cap in permanent marker and it bled all over the place but it was too late…sorry, not important). So I tell myself – “Self fear not, because you don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great.” And I reply to myself – “Well Self, let’s start in D.C.”
It is a loaded name that calls to mind politics, history and scandal. Growing up in Massachusetts, I never had the opportunity to visit our nation’s capital and it took me going to college in Texas to finally get the motivation. To say that I am excited doesn’t do my emotions justice. D.C. has so much to offer, or I have been told that D.C. has so much to offer by friends and a variety of travel books I have been studying. I look forward to experiencing as much of the history, culture and food (I have heard the food is AMAZING and have been saving my pennies all summer to be able to afford my impending expensive lifestyle) as possible.
This summer I worked for Philips, an international lighting, healthcare and electronics company that is based in the Netherlands. I worked in the Healthcare sector, as an Online Marketing/Web Content Support Intern (try saying that 5 times fast…). My main job was to help localize their healthcare website in over 20 different countries. This involved updating pages, communicating with the different country site owners and working with technical support on any issues within the site. My boss was in the Netherlands. My boss’s boss was in the Netherlands. My boss’s boss’s boss…I think you get the picture. Basically, I am ready to work with and learn from people who were the same country as me – maybe even the same city or state.
Additionally, I wanted my internship in D.C. to be a stepping-stone, or maybe a launch pad into a career post-graduation (which happens to be in a mere 9 months, not that anyone is counting or freaking out) and my main goal was to work on my writing. I am Strategic Communication major, which is a futuristic term for Public Relations and Advertising, and hope to work specifically in Corporate Social Responsibility (an emerging field in PR that aligns social issues/non-profit organizations (i.e. The American Heart Association) with private sector corporations (i.e. Diet Coke – you might have seen their Red Dress campaign…AMAZING). So far, my formula for my perfect internship experience in D.C. looks like this:
A - Work directly with/for people in U.S.
B - Work for a smaller company (25 or less employees)
C - Have the opportunity to build my writing portfolio
D - Do something related to social/political issues
E - Have the opportunity to network and experience D.C.’s professional world
F - Work for a respected-motivated-competitive firm that lets me do more then get coffee
Therefore, A +B+C+D+E+F X a short commute = TRICOM ASSOCIATES. I finalized everything on August 3rd and officially accepted. After two months of always waiting for something better to come along, I got the best. I will now shamelessly plug my future/temporary employer’s website – www.tricomassociates.com.
Despite my excitement, I am also hesitant. It will be…different living in a city full-time. It is an unknown place filled with unknown people and unknown threats. It will also be challenging – taking two classes, working almost 40 hours a week and finding time to explore what D.C. has to offer. It is a fear of the unknown, fear of something different and ultimately, the fear of failure. But, I found a saying once that always made me stop worrying and start doing (I actually wrote it on my high school graduation cap in permanent marker and it bled all over the place but it was too late…sorry, not important). So I tell myself – “Self fear not, because you don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great.” And I reply to myself – “Well Self, let’s start in D.C.”
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