WDTN-2 Directing Intern

During my time at WDTN-2, I had the opportunity to work alongside an incredibly talented and experienced team of journalists, producers, directors and technical staff. I entered the internship hoping to discover whether a career in traditional television news was the right fit for me. The experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the industry and allowed me to develop valuable technical and interpersonal skills that will benefit me throughout my career.

As a Directing Intern, I shadowed three directors and gained insight into the critical role they play in producing live television broadcasts. While producers are responsible for creating and organizing the content of each newscast, directors ensure that every element of the show is properly programmed and executed on air. I learned how directors use specialized software and coding systems to build a show's structure, coordinate transitions, and ensure broadcasts run smoothly in real time. Through hands-on training, I had the chance to operate portions of the directing board, program show elements and edit content, giving me a firsthand look at the technical side of television production.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the internship was seeing how modern technology has transformed the newsroom. Many tasks that once required extensive manual operation are now automated through programming and remote systems. In the studio, cameras are controlled remotely and can be pre-programmed to move into specific positions for different segments. Microphones and other production elements are integrated through ENPS, the newsroom computer system that organizes and stores show rundowns. I also observed how even minor technical issues, such as a malfunctioning microphone, can create significant challenges during a live broadcast and often require quick problem-solving and adjustments to the show's programming.

In addition to learning the technical aspects of directing, I served as a studio prep assistant for the directors. This role required me to ensure that microphones, teleprompter remotes, lighting and props were prepared and positioned correctly before each broadcast. I also assisted with preparing guests for live interviews by fitting microphones and helping them feel comfortable before going on air. One particularly memorable experience was meeting Shaggy, a foster dog dressed as Krypto, who visited the station as part of a promotional segment for the, at the time, upcoming “Superman” film.

My time at WDTN-2 gave me a comprehensive understanding of the work that goes into producing live television news. Beyond learning technical skills such as coding, editing, directing and studio operations, I also developed stronger communication, adaptability and problem-solving abilities. Most importantly, the experience helped me better understand my own career goals while providing skills and professional insights that will continue to be valuable in future journalism and communications opportunities.