It's kinda funny to see what goes on on-set when the camera turns off. The make-up lady practically attacks Tavis Smiley's face from the moment he's out of the spotlight, and a mirror is obsessively held up to make sure his hair is ok (in case his buzz cut abruptly decides to go haywire). But besides the slightly abundant narcissism, it's so respectable how he handles his presence on camera. I could never do that. There was one moment when he was joking with the producer and everyone was laughing, but right when the camera turned on and he had to say his lines, he immediately turned off the hoopla and handled it like a gangsta. It seems like one of the best jobs in the world, to be able to talk to such prominent people everyday. He's considered by Time Magazine to be one of the '100 most influential people'... but sadly enough, I've never heard of him until this internship. He interviews celebrities as well, but mostly politicians, authors, artists, other big movers and shakers. The only sad part about this internship is that I MISSED HIS INTERVIEW WITH THE SWELL SEASON!!! They were IN STUDIO, on Monday!!! BUMMY BUMMERSONNN IM BUMMED.
KCET is the oldest running lot in LA and they shoot tons of random footage stuff here (esp note for the Grey's Anatomy fans!). The people here are so friendly! And everyone is my age-ish, which is a nice change of scenery from the 40-something Jewish men that dominate Blumberg Ribner. And plus they have snacks strewn around the office everywhere. Also, did I mention it is about 2 blocks away from Intelligentsia?!? Another reason to get here early in the morning: Best coffee in LA!
Every time I mention a prospective future at J-school, I get a whole slew of depressing factoids from new acquaintances. So according to a new sympathizer, jobs in journalism are obviously dying but J-school applicants are increasing(?). And I thought I was the only crazy one... but I guess the list just grows. But I have faith that journalism will transition from print to the Internet, instead of simply becoming extinct. Definitely not smoothly, and most probably in a kicking, biting, screaming, grappling way, with a legion of casualties, but writing WILL survive!
Anyway, I am pleasantly surprised by this internship. I have zero experience in broadcasting, and before this, I had zero interest. But now it all seems really intriguing, and I really have no idea what to expect. We shall see!
