My brain is exploding.
No, it’s not because I had a little too much of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities last night, or because I’m still jet lagged. I just learned so much today at the conference, I’m not sure I can cram any more in!
It is so wonderful to be able to learn from professional journalists! As of yesterday, I have been gifted with 200 new story ideas, and the tools to make them happen. Granted we can’t take on their suggestions of covering the local nudist colony, but there were several ideas that can work at UP. Stay tuned in the last few Beacons! But more than a list, we talked about how a story doesn’t simply come from an abstract idea. It comes from thinking and planning ahead, and restructuring so the fiesty and groundbreaking stories can draw in the crowd. NYC12 got me thinking not just about reporting or editing, but about stepping back and looking at the big picture.
Not only am I freshly inspired to think creatively about how to cover UP’s campus, but the design sessions taught me how to better connect visually. People are drawn to faces and emotion in photos, totally cool right? For an InDesign newbie, this little hints are pure gold.
I also got a crash course in down-and-dirty-take-no-prisoners journalism. Seriously. In 2 back to back sessions led by completely powerful kick butt ( and ridiculously intimidating) speakers, my approach to reporting got revamped. Apparently, thanks to the beauty of freedom of information laws, I can find absolutely any public document I like. Or so I was told. Though it will take time and patience, there are so many resources for journalists to utilize when looking for public records. The joy of options and copious information! But in the end, the speakers stressed that it’s up to the reporter. No is not acceptable. Rage when public officers deny you information you are allowed to see. And find the mysterious backdoor that can get you what you need. Now I’m pumped.
Sessions are done for the day, but another night in the lights of NYC ahead. How did I get so lucky?
Laura
UP Beacon staff blog 
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