Missouri Press Association
Serving Missouri Newspapers Since 1867
This summer, I was given the opportunity to further my journalism education through a 13-week internship with the Warrensburg Star-Journal. As a junior majoring in digital media production with a minor in creative writing at the University of Central Missouri, the opportunity to build my expertise through real-world news reporting lays the foundation for my future in the field of journalism.
With a bi-weekly publication cycle, I published 16 stories, strengthening my storytelling skills and building my photography portfolio. With experience in multi-platform media gained during my college years, I managed the social media pages of the newspaper, broadening my ability to grow analytics through news coverage.
Beginning the internship, I had my worries, unsure if I would be able to keep up with the fast-paced environment and produce quality work that would both inform my community and impress my superiors. Being passionate about reporting for years, I have experience writing for my college’s newspaper, The Muleskinner, but I wasn’t confident my efforts would compute.
Walking into the office on my first day, my worries quickly subsided. I was met with welcoming smiles and helpful hands throughout every step of the process. Although the Star-Journal is one of the smaller staffs I worked with, the work ethic and dedication that ran through this newspaper were well-built and sturdy.
I quickly learned that my abilities were important, but malleable. My managers and fellow reporters supported my growth in the field through each deadline, assisting me in both the way I think about journalism and the tactics I use to inform others.
As a general assignment reporter, I covered a large variety of topics, from foam parties to retirement highlights. My favorite pieces were the ones I was given creative freedom over. I enjoyed featuring those who don’t get as much attention otherwise.
For my first assignment, I was directed to attend our town’s monthly art walk − an outdoor art vendor fair, to show appreciation for Warrensburg’s art scene and give residents an opportunity to experience local artistry. After completing my first story, featuring an 11-year-old jewelry designer, I was enlightened to be working in such an experience-driven field.
I was assigned to find a new artist to cover each month, an assignment I took great pride in and enjoyed more than expected. I don’t often involve myself in the art scene, but now find a sense of belonging and joy in the collaboration. The difference in my first art-walk story, to my last of the summer, shows the growth and diligence I gained through working with the Star-Journal.
Covering whatever was thrown at me as well, I gained experience seeking out interviews and widening my interpersonal skills. Typically, I am a more timid and shy person around new people. After this 13-week internship, I can confidently say I can approach anyone with the right intentions and questions.
Aside from the monthly artist features I wrote, I covered events, including a handful of annual events that our county holds. I learned how to cover pre-event stories and how to inform in a way that doesn’t ruin the surprise of the occasion. I featured new and upcoming organizations, spreading awareness about sponsorships and resources for those in need.
The things I learned through my first internship will be carried throughout my career and are the building blocks for what’s to come.
The opportunity to experience firsthand news and bring light to areas of the world that don’t always receive the spotlight it deserves is a truly beautiful thing. I am incredibly thankful for the experience I had this summer and encourage all students to partake in an internship that gives them real-world job experience.
Darby Mostaffa is a senior at the University of Central Missouri with a major in digital media productions, an emphasis in journalism, and a minor in creative writing.
