At the start of my sophomore year at ECU, I announced to my family I was dropping my standing as a pre-law student and studying journalism. It's a big jump from the law to the press, but that's not what seemed to bother my mother. She couldn't understand why I chose newspapers over television.
Since that day, Mom has relentlessly tried to get me out from behind the desk and in front of the camera. No matter how many times I told her that I had no intention of doing such a thing, she would persist.
"I'm working toward a bachelor of arts degree in communications," I said each time. "I'm a writer — that's enough for me. I'm not even taking any broadcasting courses."
"But you're so pretty," she would respond with that motherly insistence.
Well, happy early Mother's Day, Mom, because you're finally getting your wish.
In order to give our readers a new perspective into what's happening around town, we've begun a new series of short videos called "Day Trippin'," with yours truly. Think of it as a video diary of local events that you can watch in less than five minutes. News reporter Scott Batchelor, who can now add director and cameraman extraordinaire to his resumé, will edit the footage to be posted on www.reflector.com.
The whole idea arose from newsroom personnel about a month ago, and I was more than hesitant. Yes, it sounded like fun, but I also know myself too well — I've had to deal with being me for almost 23 years. And I recognize that my life up to this point has been nothing more than a chain of mishaps and embarrassing moments separated by a few hours of sleep.
Some of my most mortifying moments stem from my enormous fear of public speaking. I'm not one who would rather die than deliver a speech, but if given the option between the two, I'd definitely take some time to weigh the pros and cons of the former. This is no secret to the people who have had to suffer through my unbearable class presentations throughout high school and college. (To you, I apologize.)
My little problem is also why I had to give everyone involved in this new project fair warning — there might be multiple takes for even the simplest shots. After all, the only thing I really have on my side is my lack of shame.
For our first edition, Scott and I headed to the International Festival on the Greenville Town Common April 14. There, people representing cultures from all over the world, past and present, shared their food and played some traditional music while I danced more than any rhythmically challenged person should ever be allowed. You'll see what I mean.
I'll admit to how nervous I really was in the moments leading up to "action." I paced around my house all morning. I started to feel sick the moment I parked my car. I rubbed a worry stone my friend lent me so much I thought it'd erode into sand.
But all of those reality-show personalities are right — after a while, you really don't notice the camera anymore. At least not as much. I even got comfortable enough to let friends and family watch some of the filming. And after some introductory shots, I enjoyed hanging out with the pirates and vendors.
Yet, it is really Scott who has worked the hardest in putting this video together. Not only would it be a mess without his dedication to figuring out new movie-editing software, he also encouraged me to ask questions I would usually never have the guts to do on camera.
All in all, I consider it a success as two writers' attempt at broadcast journalism. Look for it Monday on reflector.com.
Contact Kristin Day at 329-9579 or kday@coxnc.com.
