Summer Internship Conclusion

Summer intern Jacob Padden marks his last day at The Buzz office with lunch out at La Tapatia Mexican Restaurant.

This summer was my first time taking a full-time summer job. While most teens spend the summer sleeping and relaxing, I was up at 9 a.m. and in the office by 10 a.m. each day. Many of my friends asked why I took this job, especially since it is unpaid, but a job has much more to it than the amount of money you make doing it.

First and foremost, my internship gave me insight to the journalism world, which I would not have been able to experience anywhere else. Having an interest in journalism, this was a great opportunity. I learned the ins and outs of the business such as interview tips, tailoring an article for a specific audience, the significance of always being factually correct, and lots more. I learned how to deal with deadlines and the pressure that accompanies them.  I also learned the huge importance of utilizing resources and networks, especially in any local publication.

My writing skills developed so much mainly with the help of associate editor Cheryl Laird’s strict edits. I became more efficient with developing and formulating my stories, finishing with less edits each time. Finally, I learned that a true Buzz story is focused on the neighborhood and the people in it, because the magazine and stories are all for the people of Bellaire, West U, Tanglewood, River Oaks, and Memorial. These valuable tips and tools I learned will definitely help me with whatever I decide to do in the future, even if it isn’t journalism.

Another great thing that I took away from this internship is the awesome relationships I have built along the way. The other interns were fun to work with and hopefully we will keep in touch throughout the school year. Jordan Magaziner, digital media manager, and Annie Blaylock McQueen, associate editor, were both great to work under and really supportive of my writing.

Joni Hoffman, editor, was the best boss and we both enjoyed working with one another. She nurtured me throughout the summer and kept me focused each day. I know she will continue to mentor me as long as I am still in Houston. Everyone was really great to work with. The true sense of community of The Buzz Magazines really comes through in the office and shows in the way we do things.

I am excited to keep writing through the Buzz with the monthly SportzBuzz Jr. and School Buzz blog. My writing skills will continue to improve and I will be able to maintain connections I developed. It is also exciting to have more power in the School Buzz blog because I get to decide what gets published. I look forward to applying the same things I learned in a slightly different setting.

I doubt that there is any better internship I could have taken. I was given the freedom to write what I wanted and the opportunity to be published online and in print, all without a degree in journalism. I developed my writing skills and learned all about journalism and The Buzz Magazines. I also came away with many good relationships and know I can rely on all of these people in the future. If you have an opportunity to take an internship, you should strongly consider it. Although you may not get paid, the working experience, learning opportunity, and relationships will definitely be worth it.