PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — As my summer internship at WAVY-TV 10 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I have had. Not just as a Sales and Social Media intern but as someone who got a behind-the-scenes look at how every piece of the station fits together. What started as an opportunity to grow my skills in marketing and content creation quickly became a well-rounded learning experience thanks to the chance to shadow other departments like Engineering, Promotions, and The Hampton Roads Show.
Having the chance to step outside of the sales and social media world and see the other moving parts of the station was such an interesting experience. In the Engineering department, I saw the backbone of the station. From the technical side that keeps us on-air and online to the software that is used to connect audio to video, it was fascinating to see how much goes on behind the camera to make sure what the viewers see is seamless.
In the Promotions department, I was able to see how the WAVY brand is shaped. Understanding how promos are built to tell stories and engage the community helped me better understand how my work in social media fits into the larger picture of connecting viewers to a brand.
Shadowing on The Hampton Roads Show was an exciting process to be a part of. It was an experience I wish everyone got the chance to have. I engaged with the guests that were on the show that day. I wore a headset that the booth producer used to give directions, and I shadowed the floor producer while filming was taking place. I now have a different look into live television after learning the filming process.
Each of these experiences gave me a well-rounded understanding of how a news station operates, not individually but as a team. Every department plays a role in delivering an equally important part to the final product. Being able to see that has made me appreciate my role in the Sales department that much more.
I am incredible grateful to the WAVY team for welcoming me, teaching me and allowing me to explore beyond my initial role. I am leaving with a deeper understanding of the broadcast industry and a growing interest in collaborative storytelling.
Thank you, WAVY-TV 10, for an unforgettable summer!
