It's getting better all the time

I have a new computer! That might mean I'll actually keep a more timely blog, but don't count on it just yet.

Things have gotten a little bit better lately at work... There was a two-week period where I was sick and falling behind because I missed work, and it was getting a little too stressful for me to handle. I changed my schedule now so I have more time at the end of the day during the week to put things together, which I think has helped. Plus, I get to sleep an hour later, which is good in some respects.

The weekend shows have been running pretty well, but I'm still not at the point where I'm completely comfortable. I still feel like I'm scrambling to get things done at the end, which can be really stressful. It's probably a matter of time-management, which I'm still not quite sure I'm doing wrong. It's tough, because there are so many things I have to keep track of, and if I forget about one detail, it can make for a bad moment on air. That's something that experience can only improve.


I think I had an epiphany the other day that sort of explains my situation: All my life, at least throughout my time in school, I've succeeded by being booksmart. But now that I'm out of school, I can't necessarily rely on that anymore. This job requires a different type of smart that I'm still trying to figure out... and it can be really scary sometimes. This job is more about organization and thinking quickly... two things that aren't necessarily required when doing homework or a research paper.

Which gets me to thinking... should I go back to school? I've known ever since I graduated and took on this job that I would eventually go back to school and get my Master's/PhD. It was only a matter of when, because I know I can succeed in the world of academia.

Now, I'm thinking of going back to school sooner rather than later. I just don't think I can wait several years to move up in the TV business when I know I can better contribute to society as a researcher and eventually a professor. As I said before, I think the world of academia would be a better use of my talents. I feel more comfortable when I can show off my knowledge, and I think a job teaching at the college level would be more fulfilling than what I'm doing know. I've noticed ever since I took my internship in London that I feel better when I can teach someone how to do something... whether it be how to use a certain computer program, or when I was helping my Ukranian host mother learn some English phrases... I feel good that I helped someone and also that I could show off my knowledge.

That doesn't mean I won't value my time right now at my current job, and I think this job will help me get better organized and I can draw on my experiences now to help me in my future academic path, whether it be in mass communications, public policy, history or political science.

I would be lying if I said there weren't other factors involved... money is one of them. I don't think most people know that the broadcast business is such a low-paying profession, unless you've been working in it for a long time. That being said, it is also a very rewarding job. But I don't think I can wait long enough in this business to move up to where I can feel comfortable financially if I know I can go back to school and work my way towards a better-paying and more satisfying job.

Another factor involved... the hours. Right now, I probably have some of the worst hours in the working world. I know I won't have that job for the rest of my life, and I knew what the hours would be when I took the job, but it's still tough nonetheless for me right now. It's really put a strain on my relationships, especially with my girlfriend. It's so hard to find time for people anymore, and the time I do spend with friends always seems rushed. I think going back to school would get me back to a more normal schedule, and if I go back to UW, I'll basically be on the same schedule as my girlfriend. Plus, I'll have more time off to see my family.

So, my plan now is to go to grad school starting in fall 2008. That gives me plenty of time to prepare for the application process, and it gives me more experience working in my field. And hey, maybe in a few months, I'll start to really like this job and want to keep doing it. I really want this weekend show to succeed with me at the helm, but at the same time, there are many negatives to the job. However, I've been hearing a lot of positive feedback about the show, and that really keeps me motivated. I know there's always room for improvement, and maybe one day I'll feel comfortable enough to have a stress-free (or at least a reduced-stress) show.

I do have a lot of respect for those who stick with the TV business... it's such a stressful and sometimes time-consuming job, but when things go right it can be a really rewarding experience.