My first media statement

I have my first media statement so far completed and sent for publication and I am thrilled. I hoped and saw this day coming but never thought how I would feel about it.

I am now more confident in writing more statements. Practice makes perfect!

The only problem is how time consuming the whole process can be.

My project is based on contacting various cadet unit leaders to find out what they and their cadets at are up to to write a compelling, interesting and worthy story while including DFC's involvement in funding this program, and it has been hard getting through to unit leaders because of their busy schedules.

Since it was school holidays the last couple of weeks, my project had been on hold and I had taken on another temporary project with Grants. Along with this I have also written an article for our internal news. It's in the process of approval and yet another thing to look forward to.

For now, finally, a media statement. It was such a thrill as I attached a media release cover page approval form and handed it over to our Community Relations Manager.

Needless to say I have learnt many things from this internship and am still learning!

• In contacting the many cadet units from different it helps doing some research about their cadet unit and school (since there are 19 schools consisting of different cadet lines) before I start asking questions
• You need some probing questions just to direct them in the same direction you are heading. Not tell them what to say! If they know what you are looking for then it would help them provide you with the information you seek
• No matter what picture you wish to use for your article photo consent is always essential! Even if they say they are happy for you to use it, don't abuse it. Always have formal written consent
• Media statements do not have to be lengthy and the first paragraph, as we were taught in PR, is always short and concise but one that draws your audience
• Use an inverted triangle when creating a media statement. Think most relevant and important aspect of the whole story, the main point, the big picture, what you are essentially trying to present, the jist of it

This I've learnt from attending my PR classes but now it's putting it all together in a real organisation.

It's got me thinking, what do I really want to do? What industry am i going to choose? What is the next step for me ?(I know it's looking for a job, one that pays that is, for this is just as much as job) The end is near and so is the beginning of a career. What is my worth?

I want to learn more but time is such a factor. 20 days isn't enough. So I have extended my interest of staying on in this internship.

I am willing to volunteer my time to gain more knowledge from this and it seems there are lots more I could include in my report but afraid I would not be able to until my report is due.

The Seniors Week 2010 starts the week our report is due and I have offered to attend and provide my services for one of the events since helping out with the media statements among other general tasks and also because it would be such an experience. I am now waiting to see if they have a spot for me to lend a hand.

I hope everyone has been enjoying their time throughout their internships and for those of you who are done and looking for a start in your careers, good luck! For those who have found your ideal jobs, congratulations!

With best intentions,

Cheryl