How To Become A TV News Reporter

Marielle Ashley - A LARC Success Story

2008-09-16T03:01:00.000-07:00

Marielle Ashley was hired as a Weekend Anchor at KTWO in Casper, Wyoming. She landed the job just a few months after finishing LARC. Here's her LARC interview.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC to help you make your resume tape?

Marielle: I chose LARC because I did not feel my packages from college were polished enough to submit to news directors. After doing extensive research on resume tape companies, I went with LARC because I wanted to be the one conducting my own interviews. I wanted a tape that showed news directors that I can handle breaking news. I did not want to send out packages of reworked stories that news directors have seen numerous times.

LARC: What are some of the most important lessons you learned at LARC?

Marielle: I learned so much at LARC. Jay really helped me with my presentation and voice. I also found the writing workshop to be very beneficial. Jay teaches you how to package your stories to get a news director's attention.

LARC: You landed a job in less than 3 months. What was your reaction when you got hired?

Marielle: I was thrilled! It all happened so fast. I had a rush of emotions all at once. I landed my dream job fresh out of college. It's an amazing feeling when all of your time, effort, and money pays off.

LARC: Talk about the interview. What were some of the questions you were asked and what interviewing advice can you give?

Marielle: The news director thought my tape was very polished and professional. The tape spoke for itself, which made the interview process fairly easy.

LARC: Finally, what advice can you give people trying to break into the business?

Marielle: Keep at it. The job hunt can get very frustrating at times, but if you truly want this, be persistent and don't give up. All it takes is one news director to notice you have potential. As someone told me, your dream is only one tape and a phone call away!

LARC: Thanks, Marielle. Congratulations!

A LARC Success Story - Trevor Connor

2007-12-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

Trevor Connor hired by News Channel 9 El Paso. Trevor was offered 3 different reporter jobs with his LARC tape. He talks about why he chose Texas in the LARC interview.

1. Why did you choose LARC to help you with your resume tape?

Trevor: Well, I put together a tape from my school news show before I graduated from college and sent it out to a handful of small-market stations in early June. After a month, I had no responses and I started to think that news directors weren't taking my tape seriously because of the content. Around the same time, I found out about LARC and was really impressed by the number of people that went on to get jobs in the industry after doing the clinic. At first the cost seemed pretty high, but after going through the experience it was worth every penny.

2. You got three different offers before taking the job in El Paso. Were you prepared for that?

Trevor: It was definitely a case of "when it rains, it pours." I started sending out my LARC Tape in mid-July, and a month later I started hearing from stations. An email from Idaho Falls. An email from El Paso. A call from Wassau-Rhinelander. A call from Jefferson City. This all happened within a span of two weeks. What's interesting is that Idaho Falls, Wassau-Rhinelander and Jefferson City all offered me reporter jobs right away. El Paso didn't because there were no positions available (even though the news director really liked my tape and wanted to hire me). I liked the idea of starting in a Top-100 market like El Paso, so I decided to take a risk and turn the other three stations down. I had to wait until November for a news reporter job to finally open up there but a better climate, higher market and more exciting news environment made it worth it in the end.

3. Describe the job interview? What questions were asked and what did the news director want to know about you?

Trevor: What many people don't realize is that the actual interview is conducted over the phone, not in person. If a news director likes your tape, then he/she will call you to find out more about you. My boss asked me why I wanted to be a news reporter, what previous experience I had, what my approach was to writing stories and how I would come up with story ideas.
If the interview goes well, you could get a job offer before you ever see the station or the town it's located in.

4. You're on the job reporting now. What were some of the techniques you learned at LARC that are helping your today?

Trevor: The one thing I learned at LARC that is helping me the most right now is how to structure a story. Before the clinic I had no idea how to use natural sound and compelling video, no idea where to put the who, what, when, where, why and how of a story, and no idea how to end a story. After doing the writing workshop, I now have the ability to report on any kind of story that comes my way AND make it really, really good.
Another thing I learned at LARC that is helping me a lot right now is how to be a quick writer. I'm working the morning and afternoon shifts during the week and nothing has made my producers happier than finishing a VOSOT for the 5:00 pm newscast at 2:00 and finishing a package for the 6:00 pm newscast at 3:00. Plus, it's easy on the nerves when you don't have to worry about meeting deadlines because you've already finished your work so early.

5. Finally, what's the best advice you can give to people trying to break into the news biz?

Trevor: Besides signing up for LARC and having Jay Jackson help you put your tape together? I'm not kidding when I say that you need a tape that news directors are going to take seriously, so whether you put it together at school, at an intership or at LARC, you need to have material that will grab someone's attention. And there's no better of a combination to have on a tape than raw talent and great stories.
I advise people to be resourceful. Wikipedia.org has a list of all 210 television markets in the United States, with links to the websites for all of the news stations in each market. And each news station usually has a "Job Opportunities" page with listings for anchor and news reporter openings. This was the easiest way for me to pick out a starting point and move forward in the job search process.
I advise people to be persistent. After sending out a resume package, you should also email the news director a copy of your resume and clip of your tape. Then call the station and leave a message on his/her voicemail letting them know what you sent them. Sometimes email adresses won't be listed or stations will tell you not to call. Do whatever you can to get their attention.
I advise people to be patient as they pursue their first job. It took me five months between the time I sent out my first tape and started my first day at NewsChannel 9. You'll spend a lot of time putting together resume packages and a lot of money mailing them out. It can get frustrating sometimes, especially when you go a couple of weeks without hearing from anybody. But just when you think nobody's interested, you'll get some calls or emails from a few news directors at the same time.
Finally, I advise people not to be afraid to send their tapes to higher markets. By the time I heard back from NewsChannel 9, the idea of working in El Paso was an afterthought. I was mailing my tapes to smaller markets with the thought that it would be easier to get a job that way. Then I thought about how great it would be to get my first job in a market where people usually get their second job, so I decided to go for it. The moral of the story: While one news director might take a look at your tape and never call you back, another might take a look at your tape and think you have a lot of potential. You just never know.

Great advice, Trevor. You're going to do great. Congratulations!

A LARC Success Story: Crystal Fisher

2007-11-27T15:13:00.000-08:00

Crystal Fisher is a reporter/producer at WLVT in Bethlehem, PA. (dma #68) While at LARC, Crystal covered a drag queen beauty contest and a murder in South LA. Crystal is also a brilliant documentary producer/director. LARC has no doubt she will be very successful. Here's her LARC interview.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC to help you complete your resume tape?

Crystal: I decided to do the LARC program because I needed
to get a reel together that didn't seem inconsistent. In graduate school we did a lot of work, learned a lot about journalism and came out with an awesome documentary. But, as far as getting a job was concerned, I had no useable tape. My hair was different lengths, I had never sat at an anchor desk and I was terrible at walking on camera. So, after both of my friends, Perrine (Bakhshay) and Jackie (Reeves) did your program and got jobs, I thought you must have some secret strategy that is working. And you do, you make stars! (Inside joke)

LARC: What do you think was the most valuable aspect of the class?

Crystal: Hmmm... it's had to say that there is one aspect that is the most valuable. I think that if I had to choose... learning to tailor my questions to get a full SOT (sound-bite) and not wasting time asking questions I didn't need answers to was what I needed the most help with.

LARC: You were called for a job less than week after finishing your LARC tape. How exciting was that?

Crystal: Extremely exciting. And, it is a great job! I am a reporter/producer at PBS, WLVT, in Bethlehem, PA, which contrary to popular belief isn't that small of a town. We have more than 2.5 million viewers, and reach all the way from the Jersey border to Philly. It's truly wonderful.

LARC: What questions did the news director ask you during the interview?

Crystal: She primarily wanted to know if I had the drive and determination to get stories done, and done well, under tight deadlines.

LARC: When you were offered the job, describe your reaction, feelings, emotions, etc.?

Crystal: It's hard to say. I totally went blank. I had so many feelings I didn't really get to register any of them. I was elated, excited, overwhelmed and kind of scared. But, I think after i tall settled down a little I am mostly genuinely happy and relieved that now I am working. And I am working in a great place, close to home, with the most incredible boss out there!

LARC: Finally, what advice can you give up and coming reporters?

Crystal: Don't give up! Don't trust that the first opinion you hear is the right opinion. People may tell you to lose weight, dye your hair, talk faster/slower... maybe they are right. Listen to them, but don't be destroyed by their comments. Be happy and grateful that they gave you advice, an opinion/advice to offer. Take everything you can get. And be yourself. You don't get hired for being "newsreporterlady/man #1". You get hired for being you. If you aren't you, who is? Good luck!

LARC: Great advice. You're going to do great!

A LARC Success Story - Nikki Burdine

2007-10-21T00:50:00.001-07:00

Nikki Burdine is a reporter at WHAG.
It's her dream job and it's close to her home.
While at LARC, Nikki interviewed Martin Sheen.
She also covered an emotional Memorial Day exhibit in Santa Monica.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC to help you make your resume tape?

Nikki: LARC was recommended to me by a friend
who had recently got her tape
done at LARC and landed her dream job as a result.
After researching
other workshops, I realized LARC really was the best.
 I made a
commitment to myself to get my dream job,
and in my mind the only way
to do that was to have a great tape.


LARC:  What do you think was the most important
 thing you learned during
your LARC experience?

Nikki: The workshop as a whole was very informative.
I loved the feeling of
being an actual reporter...on the job.
It really gave me a sense of
how it would be. Jay gave me control
 to chose the stories and write
them how I wanted. Even though I did
have a lot of freedom, I never
felt misguided because Jay was always
there to provide guidance and
suggestions. Another important part
 was the writing workshop. Jay
actually sat down and gave me tips,
writing suggestions and other ways
that will make me a better reporter.
 Not only did I get a great tape
from LARC, but I gained a lot of tools
 and knowledge that will
definitely come in handy.


LARC: Describe the job interview?
What were some of the questions news
directors asked you?

Nikki: I was actually given a written
test in my first interview. It was
definitely tough! It included history
 questions, public policy
questions and various political questions.
 In addition to the multiple
choice test, I was give two writing tests.
 I was also asked why I
wanted to be a reporter, what my ultimate
goal is, why they should
hire me, and what my weaknesses are.

LARC: Talk about the moment you got the job?
 What did the news director
say and how did you feel?

Nikki: After my interview, I felt great.
 It went really well and I thought I
would hear from them within the next week.
 When 2 months went by I was
very discouraged and thought they had
 given the job to someone else.
After calling the news director at least
 once a week for 2 months, I
decided to give it one last try.
The news director finally took my
call, and offered me the job. I felt
 a huge sense of accomplishment,
because he hired me solely based on
 my talents and what I had to
offer. I then called Jay immediately
 and told him the good news!

LARC: Finally, what's the best advice
 you can give people who are trying
to break into the business?

Nikki: I know its cliche, but never,
 ever give up. If you truly know in your
heart that this is what you want to do
 with your life, don't let
anyone tell you you can't. Make sure
you have thick skin and don't
take anything personally. Timing is
everything. Just keep pursuing and
it will happen! Last but certainly not
least, the most important thing
for any reporter is to have a great reel.
 If you don't have that, you
won't get anywhere. It's worth the time
and the investment if you are
serious about your career.

LARC: Thanks, Nikki. Congratulations on
your success. You're going to go very far in this business.

A LARC Success Story - Jackie Reeves

2007-10-07T20:51:00.000-07:00

Jackie Reeves was hired as reporter and anchor for KTWO in Casper, Wyoming less than 2 months after finishing her LARC tape.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC to help you make your resume tape?

Jackie: I researched other resume tape services, and felt like LARC was the most thorough and professional method to making a resume tape. After grad school, I did not have the footage necessary to make a great tape, and I felt like Jay had the background and knowledge to assist me in putting together a resume that could get me my first job.

LARC: What do you think was the most valuable lesson you learned at LARC?

Jackie: There were many things I learned at LARC that were very valuable. Jay really helped me work on my voice, camera presence and presentation, and made sure that everything that I put on my tape was professional. He also gave me valuable information on the business, including methods in how to send my tape out, the right people to contact, and what to do during the interview process.

LARC: You got hired fairly quickly. Talk about the interview process and what did the news director think about your tape?

Jackie: I received really positive feedback from my tape. Every director I talked to thought it was a polished, professional resume. In fact, this made the interview process easy, because they felt like the tape spoke for itself.

LARC: Talk about your reaction when the news director offered you the job?

Jackie: I was estatic! It all happened so fast, and this has been my dream for a long time. When it finally comes true, it is a wonderful feeling.

LARC: Now that you're "in the club", what advice can you give people trying to break into the business?

Jackie: Be persistent and never give up. It is a hard business to break into, but the work is worth it. As a journalist every day is an adventure, which makes the job challenging, but so much fun.

LARC: Thanks Jackie. Again, Congrats.

A LARC Success Story: Perrine Bakhshay

2007-07-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

Perrine Bakhshay is the new weekend anchor at KTWO in Casper, Wyoming. Perrine landed her job less than 3 months after sending out her tapes. Perrine received several offers after sending out fewer than 20 tapes.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC?

Perrine: I decided on LARC as it was the most comprehensive approach to putting together a solid resume tape. After having finished graduate school for Broadcast Journalism I still didn't have what I needed to put together a great tape. Jay not only helps you package yourself for beginning markets, he teaches you the fundamentals of how to work under deadlines and get it done. Having a great product is just a bonus.

LARC: How was LARC most beneficial for you?

Perrine: LARC gave me more insight in a few days than I ever could have imagined possible. The coaching and mentoring, the writing skills, the interview skills -- all of this came together. It almost sounds like it's not possible (and I can be fairly skeptical). But, it is. Most importantly, it gave me the confidence and assurance to pursue my dreams.

LARC: You were offered two jobs in a matter of weeks. Why do you think that happened and what was your reaction?

Perrine: I was shocked! I felt very blessed and fortunate but I think it speaks to LARC's ability to really bring out the best in each individual.

LARC: What were some of the questions the news director asked you during the interview?

Perrine: News directors want to know what kind of person you are. By this I mean, because you are probably starting out in an entry level market, they want to know what kind of a work ethic you have and what kind of an attitude you have. And why you want to be a journalist. They are interested in the basics. Having some ability to shoot and edit is also helpful, but that is easy to learn on the job.

LARC: You're on the job now. Describe what it feels like to be living the dream you've been dreaming about for so long?

Perrine: It's wonderful. It is so exciting to be out on the job everyday, in the community, telling stories that matter to people and are important for the community you are part of.

LARC: Finally, what advice can you give to people trying to break into the news business?

Perrine: Stick with it. Determination and discipline are everything. Anything worthwhile can be difficult -- it wouldn't be meaningful if it wasn't. Journalists have the best jobs in the world in my opinion. If you love what you do, keep at it.

LARC: Thanks, Perrine. Congratulations.

A LARC Success Story - Evan Kelly

2007-06-21T17:22:00.001-07:00

LARC graduate Evan Kelly was hired as main anchor at KYMA (Yuma, AZ) less than 2 months after finishing his LARC tape. While at LARC, Evan covered a deadly police shooting and the preparations for the Oscar Award ceremony in Hollywood.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC?

Evan: Living in Los Angeles it was a natural choice and in my search and talking to those who are working, they recommended LARC. Also, I watched Jay Jackson on my local news and knew he had a working knowledge of the biz.

LARC: You were hired as one of the main anchors for your very first job. How
did your LARC experience prepare you for that and is the training still
helping?

Evan: Jay knew from the moment I walked in the studio I would be destined for the desk. I had faith in that and listened to all of his direction. That and I feel the confidence he built helped as well.

LARC: Describe the interview? What questions did the ND ask, what did you
talk about?

Evan: The news director was nice and was mainly worried about me being able to sign a two year contract. Questions were geared towards my passion for the news business and how well I could be 100 per cent dedicated. It was a real easy interview.

LARC: You were offered the job right around the time your first born came
along. Talk about your feelings and emotions in that time of your life?

Evan: I knew being a new father that I needed to find a career that I would love, could be excited about everyday, and would have longevity in the long run. I was unsure about doing this huge move at that time, but whenever I start to question my decision I look at a picture of my baby and know it is well worth it.

LARC: Finally, what's the best advice you can give someone who is trying to
break into the business? In particular, what advice can you give them
about their resume tape?

Evan: Well, the tape is important, and if you are good it will show. You need to bring your A game and never think you are over the top. Everyone in this business want you to be you. But spend time on writing! It is so important to know how to tell the story. Just focus on the facts and showing people at home what is going on.

Thanks Evan

A LARC Success Story: Kristin Courtial

2007-04-22T14:50:00.001-07:00

Kristin Courtial landed her first job as morning anchor at Fox 12, Idaho. She has moved on, now reporting in Los Angeles. Kristin was hired less than a month after finishing her LARC tape. A former actress, who co-starred in several Hollywood feature films and TV shows, Kristin begins her news career in the highly competitive anchor seat.

LARC: Why did you choose LARC to help you make your tape?

Kristin: LARC was the best place possible to make my tape because I went out on real stories at a real time and packaged my stories just as I would in a newsroom. It was so great being involved in stories that were actually happening and getting that experience.

LARC: Now that you've been hired as an anchor, what do you think was the most valuable lesson you learned while at LARC?

Kristin: Again, it was the real life situation...I had to run prompter myself at LARC and was lucky enough to land at a station with a crew...but was prepared to do it myself if I had too.

LARC: Tell us what happened at the job interview? What questions did the news director ask?

Kristin: My job interview was pretty easy, my tape spoke for itself and I had said I wanted to do a morning show and that was what they wanted to do also, so the whole thing just clicked, if I didn't have the tape I had...it would not have been as easy.

LARC: Describe your reaction when you were told that you had the job?

Kristin: I was so excited to be involved in creating a new morning show and be anchoring it. I am co anchoring with another female whom I adore, she is great and I have learned a lot from her as she has been in the market longer than I have. We have a good relationship which makes things so much easier.

LARC: Finally, what's the best advice you can give up and coming journalists who are considering TV news?

Kristin: Be human and be accessible. So many people get hard working in this business. I never want to be that way. Maybe you can stomach horrible things that happen in the world, maybe you can't. I am not sure I can, but I have made the decision not to become hard as a human being.

LARC: Thanks, Kristin. Congratulations on your success.

A LARC Success Story - Andrew Logsdon

2007-02-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

LARC grad Andrew Logsdon is the newest weekend weather anchor/reporter at KMVT in Twin Falls, Idaho. The job is a dream job for Andrew because he specifically trained to land the job he wanted and reach his goal. Up and comers can learn a lot from Andrew. Here's his LARC interview.

LARC:
Why did you choose LARC to help you with your resume tape?

Andrew:
I chose LARC because of its success rate, as well as the credentials. As I went to station's web sites, I'd see a lot of people that I'd seen on the LARC web site. I figured this gave me the best chance to get my face onto a station's web site as well. Plus, all of Mr. Jackson's deep experience in the Lost Angeles news game helped give LARC and edge other resume tape clinics didn't have.

LARC:
What was the most beneficial experience?

Andrew:
The most beneficial experience was having Mr. Jackson helping you to create the best tape you could. I had been out of the news business for a couple years and was somewhat rusty with my behind-the-camera swagger. Mr. Jackson was very patient and worked with me to bring me back up to speed, as if I hadn't had a break in covering news.

LARC:
Describe the process of getting hired? What questions were you asked
during the interview?

Andrew:
The process of getting hired can be trying. Everyone told me that it can take a while and you have to be patient, diligent and not quit. Actually following that advice was tough for a while. It can get really frustrating when you've been sending out your tapes for a few months and haven't been called or emailed once. I got a few rejection letters.

When KMVT called, it had been the first contact I had made with a station. The news director told me my tape was impressive wanted me to interview with him right away. The actual interview itself was rather quick. He told me that from my tape, and my credentials, I had been exactly what he was looking for.

After that first interview, I started getting several emails and calls from other stations. Throughout this process, it showed me how particular the news industry is, how sometimes certain looks, certain backgrounds and certain experience might be sought by a station. I learned you have to keep trying, until someone that's looking for a you finds you.

LARC:
Describe your reaction, feelings, emotions when you were offered the
job?

Andrew:
When I got the interview, my stress went up a little bit. It almost seemed a bit surreal that I was finally this close to my dream of getting into the news business. I had a few days of difficult sleep between the interview and when I got the job offer. Once I got the offer, I slept better than I had in months.

I start my job in a few days, and I haven't been this excited in a long time. Without LARC and the tape Mr. Jackson helped me make, this opportunity wouldn't be happening.

LARC:
Now that you're in the club, what advice do you have for up and coming
journalists trying to break into broadcasting?

Andrew:
Some of the best advice I got was to diversify myself as much as possible. If you are able to do more things, you'll be considered for jobs over others who are one-dimensional. One of the things that helped me finally get my first job was enrolling in a meteorology program to earn a second degree. It allowed me to apply for more jobs than most people, and I am learning skills that far fewer people in the news industry have. The more you expand what you can do, the more opportunity you will have to do it.

LARC:
Thanks, Andrew. That's great advice. You're going to do great.

A LARC Success Story - Megan Trevizian

2007-01-22T21:51:00.000-08:00

Megan is the newest weekend anchor at KCSG in St. George, Utah. She is a graduate of St. Andrews University in Great Britain. One of her classmates happened to be Prince William, the son of Charles and Diana, and heir to the British throne. While at LARC, Megan covered a rape attempt, a wildfire and the LA Auto show.

LARC:Why did you choose LARC to help you with your resume tape? Megan: I checked out some resume tapes from previous Larc graduates and was very impressed. The stories caught my eye and were very professional. I also liked the idea that Larc students covered real-life stories. LARC: You were hired as an anchor less than a month after finishing LARC. Did you expect it to happen that fast? Megan: Not at all! I started hearing back from news directors only a week after I sent out my first round of tapes. I'd heard stories of some people waiting up to a year before getting any feedback, so it came as a huge surprise when the calls came in. LARC: Talk about your reaction when you were told you got the job? Megan: It was great when I heard the news! I was offered the job at the end of a two day interview. I had already met the news director and spent time in the newsroom...and I really liked what I saw. When they offered me the job I knew it was the right choice. LARC: How important was the LARC writing training for you? Megan: Jay simplified the package-writing process into a concise, effective format. Now and the idea of writing under deadline is a lot less daunting and something I feel confident about. I had to do a package as part of my job interview, and I the skills I learned at Larc prepared me for it. LARC: What advice would you give to up and coming news reporters trying to break into the business? Megan: Be willing to get up and move! Work hard, have a good attitude, and don't let anyone say it's not possible. Having a good resume tape is the key to getting that first job, so make sure you are proud of what you send out. Don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away--it has a lot to do with timing.

LARC Tip of the Week: Getting Stories For Your Tape

2006-06-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

There are a limited number of ways you can develop a resume tape. You can get a tape complete while at college. You can get a tape complete as an intern at a tv station. You can go to a private company, such as LARC, to get a resume tape done. Or, you can make one on your own. The latter is what I will address in this week's tip. First, get yourself a good quality home camera. If you can't afford one, get what you can afford. Next, look in your local newspaper for community events that will be taking place. There are always festivals, meetings, fairs, etc. happening. These are great stories because most of the time you'll be trying to get a job in a small market where these stories are common. News directors want to know if you can turn these common stories into something interesting. Select an event and attend. Start by finding people to interview. You want to interview at least three people. First, interview someone who is doing something interesting. For instance, a fire eater or a high-wire walker or a knife thrower. All of these people will be doing things that make for great video (TV) and they probably have something interesting to say about what they do and the event they're in. Next, find the organizer of the event and interview that person about the importance of the event. Finally, talk to event goers - two, three max - and get their thoughts about the event. Once you have your interviews on camera, start taking video of everything at the event. Especially video of people you interviewed doing the things they are naturally doing at the vent. NEVER STAGE SHOTS. So what do you do after get all of these interviews and video? That's in next weeks tip.

A LARC Success Story: Keisha Burns

2006-05-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Keisha Burns hired as the new Weekend Anchor at KGWN in Cheyenne, Wyoming one week and two days after mailing her LARC resume tape. You can see her resume tape that got her the interview by going to the LARC website - www.larcinc.org - and clicking the "Watch LARC Demo Tapes" tab.

LARC: Keisha, describe the moment the news director offered you the Weekend Anchor job?

Keisha: Oh, I was very excited. I was just so happy it happened. This is my passion. There was a time when I felt like I should give up, but I went for it and here I am. I'm just so happy.

LARC: Talk about your LARC experience and how it helped you?

Keisha: LARC basically gave me first hand experience. I learned the importance of approaching people and making the stories about people. LARC really gave me a lot of confidence on how to approach a story and how to put the package together. The writing seminar at LARC was so helpful. In the interview, I had to write a package in the field with the reporter at the station. I was able to get it done quickly because what I learned in the LARC writing class. The story actually was used on air, too.

LARC: What's the best advice you can give to people trying to break into the news business?

Keisha: Never give up! If journalism is your passion you have to go for it. There was a time when I felt like I should give up because the field is so competitive and that I would never get a job. I was wrong. Working as a reporter for LARC made me truly realize this is something that I love and I'm glad that I went for it. I get to continue on in something that I just love to do.

A LARC Success Story: Jacqueline Bennett

2006-05-14T00:19:00.000-07:00

Jacqueline Bennett is the newest general assignment reporter at KIVI (NBC) in Boise, Idaho.
Not long after finishing her LARC training, she receive numerous calls for interviews. But nothing ever fit... Until KIVI called.

LARC: Describe the moment you got the call and learned you got the job?

Jacqueline: When I got the call I was really kind of scared because I didn't know what he was going to say. The interview didn't last very long so I didn't know what to expect. When he told me I got the job it was like fireworks and explosions went off inside me. It was really exciting.

LARC: Give some advice to young and up and coming reporters trying to get their first job?

Jacqueline: It all comes when you least expect it. You have to keep at it. It was very frustrating, but you really need to stick with it. When you get the job, it's like delayed gratification.

LARC: Talk about your LARC experience? What did you learn from it?

Jacqueline: Having the access to produce such a high quality tape and to work with someone who has so much experience is the difference between getting a job or not. Without LARC I wouldn't have had a tape near the quality I had and I wouldn't even of had an opportunity to interview at the station. You need a good solid tape to get in the front door and after that it's all up to you. LARC provided me with that first step to get me in the front door.

LARC: Tip of the Week - Preparing to Make THE TAPE

2006-05-14T00:09:00.003-07:00

For those of you who are serious about getting into the news business, this is the most important tip for you. Your resume tape is, for the most part, your only way into a news station. You have to make it your best. First, you should look at lots of resume tapes. Get a since of the structure and flow of tapes. Time the length of the slate, montage. pacakges and anchoring. Take notes on the type of packages (hard, feature, business, sports, etc.) Write a flow chart on how you want your tape structured. Start with the word SLATE in a box at the top of the page. A line from that box should go the next box which should read montage. After that, first package, second package, any live work, any anchor work. In the respective boxes, write in detail what will be in your slate, montage, packages, anchoring sections. Drawing out how you'll structure your tape will make it much easier when it comes time to put your tape together.

Next weeks tip: Getting stories for your resume tape. (Other than LARC)

LARC Tip of the Week

2006-05-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

I would like to say "you're welcome" to everyone who wrote in thanking LARC for the tip of the week. I know last week's tip was simple, but you'd be surprised with the number of people who try to get into the news business without watching news at least once a day. So again, watch the news!
The tip this week is just as simple. "Read the newspaper. Everyday. The whole thing, including the Op-Ed, the obituaries, health sections, sports even cartoons. The best journalist should be able to talk in depth about every major subject in the news. Hey, did you read Doonesberry today? You never know if that migth lead to a conversation with a well-read news director. They'd be impressed if you could simply talk about Doonesberry, or Boondocks or The Farside, for that matter. The newspaper is a great, if not underappreciated source, for the incredibly wide range of information published everyday. So, if you don't read the paper daily. Start now.

Next Week's Tip: Preparing to put together your resume tape.

Auburn Hutton: A LARC Success Story

2006-05-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

Auburn Hutton is a general assignment reporter for KNBN in Rapid City, South Dakota. She graduated from LARC and was immediately hired at The Political Channel based in Los Angeles. Working at KNBN, though, is her dream come true.

LARC: What stands out the most about your LARC experience?

Auburn: I would say the thing that stands out the most was the in-the-field work. Actually going out on stories, you know, murders and robberies, that helped the most. They were stories that mattered. Also, talking to prominent people, politicians, leaders, people that are known nationwide - you don't get that opportunity at other programs.

LARC: Talk about your journey to getting a job.

Auburn: I would definitely say never give up is the best advice I can give anyone. There were times where I was so close to giving up, I just stopped sending out tapes and thought about exploring other educational opportunities. But when I least expected it I got the job. Now that I'm here, I can't imagine doing any other job. It really is my dream job. I pinch myself everyday.

LARC: Talk about the momement you found out you got the job?

Auburn: I was probably overly exicted. It was like the best feeling ever. All of that year and a half of sending out tapes, it finally payed off. It was good feeling to know someone recognizes you have potential. There's nothing better, really.

LARC: What advice would you give up and coming reporters.

Auburn: My best advice, suck it up in the beginning. Go to a small town that might seem horrible to you. Sacrifice the things that you think are important to you because you aren't going to be there forever. Yeah, it's going to be hard, you're going to be away from your family, you're not gonna have the things you had in your town. But just suck it up. There's so much to learn.

New: LARC Tip of the Week

2006-04-28T19:43:00.000-07:00

So, here we are. LARC tip of the Week. What the heck is that? Well, it's simple. After 20 years of writing, reporting, etc and Emmys, Golden Mikes and Associated Press awards, I figure I can show you a thing or two about reporting. Also, after helping nearly 30 people find reporter jobs, or interview for such, in the last 2 years, my advice might be helpful to somebody. So, here (think Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh) we goooo!:

Tip #1 Making the Resume Tape

Sounds simple, right? Wrong. This tip is really for the new-to-college kid who signed up for Broadcast Journalism as a major. You know, learning everything about the biz to make it big in the biz. What's the tip? Simple - WATCH THE NEWS!!!

A LARC Success Story: Chie Saito

2006-02-26T19:14:00.000-08:00

Chie Saito is KCFW's (NBC-Kalispell, Mt) newest reporter. Chie sent out fewer than 15 tapes before getting offered a reporter job.

LARC: Talk about your LARC experience?

Chie: It was very intense. But I learned a lot about writing an effective package, going out and interviewing people and what it takes to put a good story together.

LARC: You sent out only 14 tapes, were you surprised the response came to quickly?

Chie: Yes. I actually wasn't prepared for it.

LARC: Describe the moment you got the call that you got the job?

Chie: It was kind of a surreal experience. It was something that, when you're looking for the job, that you play it in your head what it's actually going to be like. But until it actually happens you can't describe the emotions when you actually get offered the job. It's kind of a mix between shock and a surreal experience.

LARC: Did you have any hesitations about going?

Chie: Nope. I didn't even come see the place before I took the job. You know, wherever you have to go. Some people say I'll go anywhere, but when it actually comes to down to it, they get picky saying, I'll only work on the east coast or the west coast. You know, you have to go wherever you get your job.

LARC: What do you think the most important thing you learned at LARC that will apply to your day-to-day reporting?

Chie: The most important thing I learned is the importance of making your story about people as much as possible. I had a writing test as part of the process to get the job here and I think that's what separated me from the other candidates. Making stories about people and the lessons I learned in the LARC writing workshop.

A LARC Success Story: Carole Carr

2006-02-08T18:21:00.000-08:00

Carole Carr is a reporter and fill-in anchor at WCBI in Columbus, Mississippi. Before going through LARC, she sent out 200 tapes trying to find a job, but no luck. After LARC, she had more calls then she could handle.

LARC: Talk about your experience at LARC?

Carole: It was really a positive experience. Looking for a job in this business is difficult, but to have the support I got while at LARC really made things easier. Jay also made sure I never gave up and I didn't. Now it's all paying off.

LARC: You interviewed Martin Lawrence while at LARC, Cheech Marin, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa... talk about your resume tape and what was it like making it?

Carole: It was really nice to have the expertise from a working reporter while making my tape. I had all my questions answered and I came out with a great tape. It can be intimidating doing some of the interviews, knowing the questions to ask... but Jay really made it easy while letting me do the work. That really helped me because it's exactly what I'm doing now.

LARC: Describe the moment when you first got the reporter job?

Carole: It felt like when it rains it pours. After I got one job, I was offered two jobs. The first tape I made myself. Got one call. But with LARC, I got three calls immediately, two interviews and two job offers. It all happened so fast. I'm just glad Jay was there with the advice he gave me.

LARC: What is it like being a reporter?

Carole: I've never been happier in my life. It's something that I always wanted to do. I always had that uneasy feeling that I couldn't do it, but when I got the job, I said yes, this feels right. And with the writing tips LARC gave me, it really gives me confidence on the job. My life, right now, couldn't be better.

LARC Happenings

2006-02-02T03:02:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy few weeks at LARC. We've started a campaign to be more aggressive with contacting news directors about our clients and their tapes. Apparently it's paying off. Over the last three weeks, 3 LARC grads have been hired... One as a main anchor. I'm starting to hear more news directors talk more about LARC tapes and in particular the training they're getting at LARC. That's cool because in a few years, having LARC on your resume will be like having a respected award on your resume. Next, we plan to take a trip to the RTNDA/NAB convention in Vegas. While there, LARC will be holding free tape critiques for reporters. This trip won't be to sell people on LARC, but show how our expertise will help divide the contenders from the pretenders. See you in Vegas, baby!!!

2006-01-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

Welcome one and all future TV News Reporters. My name is Jay Jackson. I am the President and Founder of the Los Angeles Reporter's Clinic - America's #1 real-news resume tape service. First of all this is not an attempt to tell you about LARC. We have plenty of business. This is an attempt to create a community of soon-to-be anchors and reporters who are going through the time honored tradition of job hunting. How many rejection letters do you have? How long did you wait to hear back from News Directors? How many people told you that your tape just isn't good enough? We want to hear your stories. Who knows, someone might say something that changes your approach. Before long, you'll be doing live shots in front of collapsed buildings, wildfires and murder scenes. So get to posting... let's make a community.