My time with NextGenRadio has been a blessing. Knowing how fickle the journalism field can be, the feelings of rejection and constant questioning were becoming familiar. Applying, but being met with roadblocks of not being qualified, not enough experience, or location. The idea of working, but choosing something, even not my passion, was beginning to look appealing.
Thankfully, I was told about NextGen by a former editor, Priska Neely, and applied the day before the application was due. I was hopeful, but still bracing myself if I wasn’t chosen. I initially thought I had not been chosen and informed my subject, but my presumptuous decision came back when I received my acceptance email the following day. Something so small taught me not to count myself out.
Participating in the NextGen program, I’ve surprised myself with everything I have done in one week’s time. Capable of work and a work ethic I never thought possible. Even with the days of second-guessing myself, and thinking I was not capable of completing the work, or even having an actual good finished product, I am glad I pushed through the work week.
Even more, I am grateful for the support of my mentor, Jennifer, and my web editor, Crystal. Our work that we’ve done, our lunches, all meant so much more in just having someone in my corner for encouragement and guidance. With them, this program was made easier.
With the work week completed, I am feeling accomplished and encouraged to go after positions I initially thought of as being out of my league. All that I’ve learned and the skills I’ve acquired (digital, web, photo, interview), I know have made me a better storyteller.
This experience has been invaluable and I aim to utilize everything here to make a positive impact within the field of journalism.
A haiku by Rachel about what home means to Delena Chappel:
She found a new home
Connections that reflect her
Uplifting through faith