Over the course of the University of Central Florida’s winter break, I received an email that I was accepted to participate in NPR’s NextGenRadio Florida Newsroom project. The program is a well-thought-out, hands-on learning experience, but my first coherent thought was, “Did they send the wrong person the email?”
Heading into the NextGen experience, I was borderline petrified. Being among so many people who are extremely talented was intimidating, but that intimidation soon turned to admiration.
My subject’s story was all about finding a home within tap, but something he touched on was rhythm. He told me “rhythm is the language of life,” and that statement holds true with NextGenRadio.
From storyboard to final touches, the entire process had an effortless flow of rhythm. NextGen creates a safe space for learning, and there was not one person that I did not learn from this week. My mentor, audio engineer, illustrator, digital editor, visual editor, and even my other mentees have followed a steady stream of cadence, allowing me to attain so much new knowledge along the way.
To witness everyone exuding confidence in their craft was infectious. My mentor and everyone involved with NextGenRadio guided me in the right direction, challenging me to do something I never thought I could. By the end of this experience, I gained something I was severely lacking before: confidence.
Confidence in the artistry of journalism is crucial. Being able to not doubt myself and feel like I can have the courage to own my work is refreshing.
With the help of NextGenRadio and the rhythm, I can take this newfound backbone with me throughout everything I do for the future of journalism and life.