Next Gen Intern Diary: Building Confidence Clip by Clip at Anambra Broadcasting Service

Stepping into my second month at the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) through Campus Reporter’s Next Gen internship felt like reaching a new stage in my professional journey. 

What was once an intimidating environment at the TV Editing Desk had gradually become a space of familiar energy, daily challenges, and rewarding achievements. Having settled into the rhythm of the newsroom, I no longer felt like a complete newcomer. 

The fast-paced atmosphere that initially seemed overwhelming had become both familiar and motivating. I now switch between editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Audition and Encoder with newfound ease.

Each day presented opportunities to learn, improve, and contribute more meaningfully to the production process.

During my first month, I spent much of my time observing and learning. 

By the second month, however, I began taking on practical responsibilities under the guidance of senior editors. I received raw footage from reporters and started arranging clips on editing timelines. 

Although the process was initially slow, consistent practice helped me become more efficient and confident. One of the key skills I developed was learning how to trim unnecessary footage smoothly while ensuring that visuals aligned properly with voice-overs. 

I also gained hands-on experience in audio editing, adjusting sound levels, reducing background noise, and ensuring that reporters’ voices sounded clear, natural, and balanced with accompanying visuals. 

This experience taught me that excellent audio quality is just as important as compelling visuals in delivering impactful stories. A particularly memorable experience occurred when a reporter returned late with footage from a community event. 

I was asked to assist in preparing a short news segment for broadcast.  Although I felt nervous, I was equally excited by the opportunity.

With guidance from my supervisor, I selected relevant clips, arranged visuals, and timed everything to fit the script accurately. 

When the report aired later that evening, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment knowing I had contributed to a story that reached viewers.

Throughout the month, the importance of accuracy became even more evident. I learned that a slight alteration in the sequence of clips could completely change the meaning of a story.

This realisation encouraged me to double-check my work carefully and pay close attention to every detail. The support I received from the ABS staff played a major role in my development. 

They patiently answered my questions and often allowed me to observe complex editing tasks firsthand. 

These moments provided valuable insight into how experienced professionals balance speed, creativity, and quality, especially under tight deadlines.

My understanding of teamwork also grew significantly during this period. 

I participated in brief discussions with reporters and producers on how best to present certain stories. 

These interactions demonstrated the importance of communication and collaboration in achieving a polished and effective broadcast.

Another area of growth was my ability to handle pressure. 

There were days when multiple stories required urgent attention, yet I learned to remain calm, prioritise tasks, and focus on one assignment at a time. 

This improved composure was the result of continuous practice and growing familiarity with the newsroom environment.

Punctuality and discipline, qualities I had admired in my colleagues, gradually became personal habits.

I began arriving earlier to review previous work, organise project files, and prepare for daily tasks. 

These simple routines improved my productivity and enabled me to contribute more effectively to the team.

By the middle of the month, I was able to complete basic editing tasks with minimal supervision. 

More importantly, I began thinking beyond the technical aspects of editing and started focusing on storytelling. I learned to select visuals that not only matched the script but also connected with viewers and strengthened the overall message. 

Editing was no longer just a technical responsibility; it had become a creative process. Of course, there were still moments of uncertainty and occasional mistakes. 

However, each challenge provided an opportunity to learn, and the encouragement I received from senior editors motivated me to keep improving.

Their support helped build my confidence and strengthened my determination to grow professionally.

Towards the end of the month, the newsroom felt less like a workplace I was adjusting to and more like a community where I belonged. I interacted more comfortably with colleagues and even contributed ideas during story discussions.

These experiences continued to teach me valuable lessons about responsibility, professionalism, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Overall, my second month at ABS has been both rewarding and transformative. 

I have progressed from being primarily an observer to becoming an active participant in the editing process, and this growth has motivated me tremendously. 

I remain grateful for the opportunity provided by the Centre for Journalism for Innovation and Development (CJID) and ABS, and I look forward to taking on greater responsibilities while learning more advanced aspects of television production.

Each day continues to bring new knowledge, new challenges, and new opportunities for growth, and I am determined to make the most of every moment.