I never thought that this major was all about working as a team. I thought my major was only going to be about writing a story, getting it approved and posting it. I never imagined all the teamwork behind it.
We are wrapping up the first show of the semester, and I feel we are all presenting a product as a team. This is not like a group assignment where one can get away with doing the work for everyone. It is now clear to me that everyone has to not only do their part but also help each other, support, motivate and collaborate.
In preparation for our first show of the semester, some of us went to the state Capitol in Charleston, while others had to stay for their stories. Those who went to the Capitol did their best to interview delegates – some of whom weren’t even being included in their own stories. We did it because our classmates who couldn’t be there needed it.
We also needed to feel empathy for our classmates and help them if they needed it. I personally feel bad when I see some of my classmates worried about their stories. So, I tried to help them by taking the weight of the visuals for their stories. That way, when they are in the field interviewing their sources, they only have to worry about getting the information they need.
We also supported each other in other ways. When we needed a ride to report our stories or to the TV set, we gave each other rides. During editing days, since I may not have had as much work as my classmates, I offered to go to the cafeteria and get something so they could eat.
On the set, some of us were nervous about our roles. So, we encouraged each other and said “good job” to calm each other down. If I made a mistake, they would calm me down. When they were explaining our roles, I personally tried to listen to the other roles so that, if they needed it, I could try to help them or just take some of that pressure off their shoulders. I was not able to learn their roles as well as mine, but at least we were in this together and going through the same thing together.
What I liked the most about this first show is that we not only practiced how to practice our profession but also how to work as a team. This helps us with our major, but it is also useful in our daily lives. I feel like this is something we can incorporate into our lives. We are not alone; we are in this together.
I have seen some of my classmates have someone outside of the classroom supporting them and helping them. I think this is an example that reminds us that we are never alone. We will always have people who are willing to help if you ask, or even if you don't, sometimes. This is a lesson I think is the most important from this first show, and I am sure we will still learn from this.