Oklahoman interns NewsOK.com Blogging Community

Here’s the funny thing about good-byes:

You can see them coming, but when you actually have to say those two dreaded words. . . it’s never easy.

That’s how I feel today, with less than four hours left in my Oklahoman internship.

I couldn’t agree more with Richard and Dontay: This experience has been invaluable to me beyond words, and looking back now, I can’t believe how much I’ve learned.

Like I’ve told my editors, the only reason I came to Oklahoma was because of the glowing reputation for The Oklahoman’s internship program. I had no ties to this state, so there was no other incentive for me to come here. Yet I couldn’t be more glad with the choice I made! This internship program surpassed its great reputation, and I’ve found Oklahoma has the same “Midwestern nice” qualities I’ve been familiar with all my life, which is a comfort and a joy.

Like Richard, I also find myself wondering, “What if?” [What if I didn’t find the courage within to take risks and travel to places I’ve never been?] Well, then I’d certainly have regrets.

But that’s not the case. I’ve treasured every moment here in Oklahoma - even the stressful ones.

I came here wanting to improve my writing and gain experience in multimedia - and I feel like I did just that. Plus, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some amazingly talented reporters, editors and photographers, who’ve each helped me become a better journalist.

I’ll walk away from here with improved skills and new friendships that I hope will last. [That means you, fellow interns!]

It’s sad to be saying good-bye. But as I’ve been saying to my colleagues here, it’s only good-bye for now. This certainly won’t be the last you hear from me.

Thank you, Oklahoman, for everything you’ve given me this summer. It’s been a wonderful ride.

~ Kristen M. Daum, City Desk intern at The Oklahoman.

Yesterday at The Oklahoman city desk, we had the annual lunchtime BBQ on the OPUBCO grounds.

That meant an hour-and-a-half away from the stressful rush of the newsroom to relax, enjoy good food and good company in the pleasant July sunshine.

(And since the heat hasn’t been nearly as bad as what it usually might be, it was indeed a pleasant afternoon.)

Each city desk staff member signed up to bring a food item for our BBQ spread.  And it ended up we brought so much, there’s still food left over here in the newsroom — although it’s mostly cookies and chips.

At around noon, the city desk’ers trekked out to the covered pavillion (including BBQ grill) on the OPUBCO grounds to enjoy a quality summer day in Oklahoma.

City Editor Michael Baker became master of the grill — serving up burgers and brats for his staff. Meanwhile, the rest of us laid out the condiments, plastic flatware and desserts.

As the meat came off the grill, we all settled down to a hearty lunch and friendly conversation.

But, of course, the noon-hour passed much too quickly, and we soon found ourselves trekking back up to the OPUBCO Tower and our 8th floor newsroom.

As an intern, I soak up moments like yesterday’s - because I know in just six more work days, I’m gone. It’s still hard to believe: I feel like I just got here!

While this experience has certainly been memorable and valuable to me, it’s not time for good-bye’s just yet. . .

~ Kristen M. Daum, City Desk intern at The Oklahoman.

Just want to share this video that I did this week.

These kids have a lot of fun and play really well. I met them a couple of weeks ago on an assignment and wanted to go back and do a video story to portray their emotion and energy…… and humor.

-Amy (Photo)

Jefferson Middle School Drum Line - Playing everything from Metallica to Mozart, the Jefferson Middle School drum line in Oklahoma City has energy, teamwork, and a lot of fun.

—Richard Hall, NewsOK.com intern

Happy Monday!

I am working from the Norman office this week, which is already proving to be a fun, interesting experience. It’s like a very miniature Oklahoman office, except my phone rings alot less. I can’t say I miss it too much. A break from the drive was nice, too. I caught up on some z’s.

I am getting ready to do a story over a kids’ camp that is incorporating fitness into its everyday activities. I think this is so interesting with all of the new (and relevant) child obesity information out now. It seems many schools and camps are taking responsibility for children’s health, even when parents won’t or don’t. America seems to be a country that has one of the very worst problems with this. I’m interested to see how the kids react though, and I honestly expect them to think it’s fun.

I hope everyone has a fantastic week. I wish I could have made the get together, but to make up for it, I would LOVE to host a barbeque. The downside? You will have to drive to Norman. But I will make it worth the while, I promise. I am going to Las Vegas this weekend, and I’m sure everyone has 4th of July plans, but we will figure something else out. Kimball, I’m talking to you,too. Just because you won’t blog doesn’t mean you can’t socialize… 

Monica Albert, Metro Desk intern