In September 2023, I began my internship as a journalist in the AL.com newsroom through the Birmingham Promise program while I finished my senior year at Ramsay High School. I got to work for AL.com for two semesters and am grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a rewarding program that has contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth.

My overall experience was incredibly valuable in terms of networking opportunities and skill development. I’ve had the chance to connect with industry professionals, potential mentors and other interns, while also improving my communication, time management and research skills.

I wasn’t quite sure what journalism was when I first started, but I wanted a chance to tell stories and make a difference.

When I started work, I was nervous and worried about making a mistake. I assumed that if I made a mistake, I would be fired. But my mentor showed me how my mistakes can be turned into lessons, and how my lessons can create a perfect story.

Meeting with AL.com journalists taught me about versatility and the value of networking. I admire reporter Carol Robinson’s energy and the network she has built in Birmingham. I talked with lots of reporters working on interesting stories. My main editor, Ruth Serven Smith, taught me a lot about the basics of journalism and how to conduct interviews, write and research.

Working in this very field has provided me with a great deal of clarity on many of the issues that we face as humans on a daily basis.

I’ve interviewed some incredible people about topics including local government, taxes, cicadas and student projects. I learned information that I doubt I would have known otherwise. Birmingham Promise taught me how to use my voice to advance coverage of issues that are important to me in a professional manner.

My favorite article that I worked on is my government shutdown story. I learned that a national shutdown of federal offices was possible, and asked if I could write about it. I learned how to quickly research, find useful information and put it together in a way that would be helpful for our audience.

Not in one million years did I think that I would get the pleasure of working with such an amazing news company. I’ve met and learned a lot from many different types of journalists, who have all given me such great advice.

I intend to study journalism at Alabama A&M and I’m grateful for Birmingham Promise’s support with prepartion for college and sholarships. I plan to use my skills and work to assist other Black journalists. Maybe I’ll even come back to work at AL.com.

As I think back on this experience, I am appreciative that I had the chance to take part in such a fulfilling program that has helped me advance both professionally and personally. I can’t wait to use the information and abilities I’ve acquired from this internship in all of my future undertakings. So to all that contributed to my success as an intern; THANK YOU.

Editor’s note: AL.com is a supporting partner of Birmingham Promise. To learn more about the college scholarship and apprenticeship program, visit its website.