Journalism in my nutshell

During the semester there was a time where I felt panic stricken, my story was falling apart. The way I had understood things wasn't necessarily reality. I had a great story idea that crumbed before my eyes. I had never felt that way before but now I realize that these feelings are what reporters and writers go through every day. This lead gone bad feeling is a slice of regularity for beat reporters.

There were many experiences as a journalism major that taught me about real writing and editing, the stuff people make their living from. Then there were other classes where I felt like I was wasting my money and time. Such is life, a mix of the good and bad. Practice makes perfect. So, the more writing and editing of any kind the better. My advice to the high school junior's out there who don't want to work in construction or in a restaurant forever: Take a typing class. I know it sounds like a horrible idea at the time, but do it.

Pursuing an internship was one of my highlights as a journalism major. It gave me a glimpse into day-to-day business realities, web analytics and other fascinating realms. I learned that new ideas are brain candy and they can really change your future.

Combustible Ice and Plastic Money

According to the Environmental Health News China has found a possible energy source in a form of natural gas. This "combustible ice" is natural gas hydrate and is found deep in the Earth's oceans and high on plateaus. This new form of energy could be a viable alternative because it is relatively clean, available and scientifically reliable when combusted.

Most importantly one cubic meter of this natural gas hydrate is the equivalent to 164 cubic meters of natural gas as we know it. These ice reserves are located in more than 100 countries around the world. You never know, combustible ice and plastic money could become a household word.

Sometime next year Canada will join the other 24 countries in the world who are currently using plastic money. I know it sounds a little creepy, but there are some environmentally positive aspects. It's recyclable and it prevents the spread of disease because it's not absorbent like our paper money today. Paper money is so dirty because it absorbs all the oils from every hand that has ever touched it. Now that's dirty, bring on the plastic money!

Writing my feature story was interesting and definitely kept me on my toes. I started out with a great idea that I knew was going to turn into a fantastic story. Then my idea was crushed. I wanted to write a compelling story about what its like to work in the solar industry in Northern Colorado. Then I learned that this business is based upon government related tax credits. During a recession no one is doing work related to installing solar systems because they are extremely expensive endeavors. People in the industry are biding their time doing heating, air-conditioning repair and other related jobs until the next tax credits are issued.

Researching this assignment was easy because the people I interacted with were excited that I was interested in solar energy.

This assignment was enjoyable simply from the life lessons that come from making mistakes. I know that I am a better journalist from the experiences I had while writing this story. I wrote the story in the end, but I learned valuable journalistic lessons regarding research. At first I thought I should scrap the whole story and move on, but in the end I am glad I didn't.

This blog is going to function as a way for me to grow as a journalist and realize the opportunities of online reporting. Solar energy is the beat that I am covering for the semester. I chose this topic because I am interested in how Greeley is responding to environmental concerns regarding global warming and climate change.

This week is Clean Energy Week. Check out the steps businesses and governmental organizations are taking to make change happen.

In the past I have written for small publications, but this is my first blog. This is also my first beat to cover, but I have already learned that there are many businesses in Greeley that have been environmentally conscious for a number of years. One of these businesses is Comfort by Nature, a solar energy company.

One of my strengths as a journalist is that I am very passionate about my work. I believe that being a member of the press is one of the most important jobs available. The work comes with a duty to society, ethical responsibility and a unique level of excitement. I am excited about blogging because it is a different style of journalism than I have ever been a part of. I am excited to take a more conversational tone with my writing and am a little nervous about exploring new territory.