JULI-ANN HINTON
April 25, 2003
Who says it's never a good thing to be flipping though boring cable television programs at 2 o’clock in the morning? That’s exactly how my interest in journalism began. I had received a college degree, stayed in school too long and worked for various health care companies. One morning around that hour, I couldn’t sleep.
Having grown bored with the television offerings, I picked up a UCLA Extension catalogue. Inside was an advertisement for a course entitled, "How to Become a Talk Show Host". I thought, "I would like to do that." I attended the course, which I loved, then quickly signed up for several journalism courses at The Extension School. I felt that I had found my calling and continued on to a newsroom internship at CNN’s Los Angeles Bureau.
After completing my time at CNN, I became an intern at KEYT-Channel 3 in Santa Barbara, California. I worked every crazy shift that no one else wanted. I worked at the assignment desk, tore copy, read wires and did whatever else was necessary. Soon, I was promoted to producer of the weekend news. Later, I joined the Friday Night High School Football program as a sideline reporter once a week. That was great fun!
At the same time, I worked at the radio station, KEYT 1260AM, doing voice-overs and board operations. I also co-hosted a summer radio show entitled "The 805 Connection", highlighting the people and events in the 805 area code. After three seasons working as a football reporter and doing various jobs at both the radio and television stations, I returned home to Los Angeles. I had a great time in Santa Barbara, but it seemed I could go no further there.
My present desire is to find a station near the city or in outlying small markets where I can develop an on-camera-broadcasting career. Over the past several months, I have sent out my audition tape and in some cases delivered the tape in person, only to be told that I don’t have sufficient experience. I know that I need some advice and direction. I want to develop the skills to become a respected, full-time journalist. I have taken some steps on my own, but I am seeking insight into what a productive path would be at this point. That’s where a mentor will make a big difference. I certainly could use the guidance.
