I woke up on time this morning at 6:30. I took my time getting ready, all the while listening to the CD I bought of The Priests. Overall, the start of morning was quiet and peaceful. As I left for work, I was pleased to find that the weather was pleasant as well. It was cold, but not a painfully cold. The slightest bit of a flurry also fell as I walked to the corner, just in time to meet a spacious railcar. As I found a seat to sit in, I quietly thanked God for letting my morning go so smoothly.
The office we also quiet when I made it in. I made myself a cup of tea and sat at my desk to begin working on my script for Zoom. The first step is to check the sites for stories. We use sites like the Vatican, ZENIT, Catholic News Service, and The Catholic Register to name a few. Usually if I'm helping write stories for Zoom, I'm able to find a few right away. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find anything this morning. Panic threatened to creep in, but I kept calm and checked all the sites again.
Everyday, they have the Zoom done in English and French, which means two hosts. I spoke to the French host and we both exchanged comments on what we had found. Both of us had come up with little, which wasn't as bad as I had thought. Zoom airs before a show called Catholic Focus, which takes up a 30 minute time slot. But, CF is never a full 30 minutes, it ranges from 23-27 minutes usually. The extra time is used for Zoom, which is why its length varies from day to day. Today's episode of CF was 27 minutes, which meant we had 3 minutes for our show.
After some help from one of the producers I was able to find three stories to cover: an address the nuncio for the UN gave at the Climate summit in Denmark, the Vatican's Christmas tree, and a promo for two specials that would be aired on S+L over the weekend.
Things got a little stressful when all of the producers were called into a meeting in the middle of my script writing - I had no one there to answer my questions or help me get my script in order. It really forced me to focus and get it done for myself - which probably was a blessing in disguise.
The morning flew by - I had been so busy trying to find stories and gather B-Roll (anything you want to add to your show, like clips from the Vatican or pictures of whoever you're talking about), that I didn't even realize it was already 11:30. I printed off my script and passed it off to a producer to read once they were out of their meeting and headed off to the bathroom to touch-up make-up and my hair.
I think this is when I panicked. In the solitude that was this small, two stalled bathroom, it hit me that this show would be broadcasted in hundreds of thousands of homes and streamed online. Now, of course, it doesn't mean that many people would see it - but the people I cared about, my friends, family, people from school and back in Louisiana - they would all see it. What if I sucked? What if S+L didn't like it, and I never would be able to do it again?
I think this was right about the time that I looked myself in the mirror and told myself to stop being a girl.
I left the bathroom with my nerves somewhat in check and was told we needed to begin filming immediately, and I was going first. My nerves came back. I hadn't practiced my script at all and I didn't feel ready to start. Regardless, they were ready now and faced with an editing deadline and I had to go.
I got my mic on and stood behind the table with my script in hand. I was told to hold the papers in my hands, look down at them as I switched stories, and try to look natural as I read the teleprompter. I have to admit the nerves got the better part of me. I don't think I was as nervous about people seeing this in a few hours as I was about wasting the peoples' time who were in the room with me with filming if I kept messing up, or if they thought I wasn't do a good job. I don't know why; they would never think that.
Any way, we got through it, and I can't remember much of it - just that I was nervous. I ate lunch after we filmed and found that I was too stressed out to eat very much of it - I was anxious to see the edited version of the show. I didn't have much to work on today, so I surfed the S+L site reading people's blogs. After an hour or so passed, the editor came to get me - the show was finished.
When word got out that the edited version was ready, Father Rosica, my supervisor, and some of my coworkers gathered around the small editing room to watch as well. I hovered in the doorway, scared to watch the finished product in front of so many important people. But, it was too late and before I knew it, I heard myself greeting all of Canada.
"Hello and welcome to Zoom!"
The viewing process was awkward. I looked nervous in the video. I had thought I had been expressive and warm when we had recorded the introduction, but my efforts didn't come across as blatantly as I had expected. It wasn't awful, but you could just tell I was a little uncomfortable.
Thankfully, no one else commented on this fact. Father Rosica offered great commentary with my coworkers. They thought I looked poised and put together, they thought I spoke at a good pace with good annunciation, and that over all it looked good.
I relaxed with the start of the second story on camera - that was easy to tell. They seemed to like my hook to the beginning and the smile I added with it. I was grateful for the B-roll on this story, it helped the whole thing look more natural. The final story or promo was alright as well - and again I liked the B-roll. With my closing statement, Father Rosica turned to face me and the office and shouted "That's a wrap; our Texas star is born!" I couldn't help but laugh.
When the video was posted online, I text messaged my immediately family and Ben to let them know they could watch the episode. A few minutes later I got a text from Ben saying his whole office had gathered around his computer to watch it and they all like it - I thought that was sweet. I also got a phone call from my mother saying her office just had watched, and ironically, a woman from ABC 13 was there (I think she's the wife of one of the doctors) and she was impressed as well.
It was over and feedback was good. I mentally gave myself a pat on the back.
We got to leave work early today for our Christmas party. We were having mass at 4:45 with Archbishop Thomas Collins of Toronto and then a dinner afterward. I caught a ride with one of my coworkers to St. Basil's Chapel (small world) around 4:30. The chapel we were having mass in was directly underneath their main church, so it was a more intimate setting. I sat back and took in the room - we had about 100 people there: employees, their families, our board of directors and donators. As I was people watching, one of my coworkers came up to ask me to do the reading. I wasn't really prepared for another stressful tasks, but I couldn't tell him no.
Mass began and the Archbishop came in with Father Rosica. When it came time for the first reading, I prayed to God that he wouldn't let me mess up - I was after all standing a few feet from the bishop and Father Rosica, and the last thing I wanted to do was make S+L look bad. I got through the reading, thankfully, and was able to resume my seat and enjoy the rest of mass stress-free.
After mass, we walked to the end of the hall for a catered dinner. I found some of my friends from work and we set off to find a table. Father Rosica met up with us in the middle of the room to say hello to my coworkers' significant others. Being the last one in line, and without my significant other, I told Father Rosica hello and planned to continue walking. However, he intended differently. He went to shake my hand, and then started to direct me to a table - the Archbishops table. "Ok, sit here," he requested and pushed out the seat directly next to the Bishop Collins. I tried to say no, that it was ok, someone else should take the seat, but the next thing I knew I was pushing elbows with the Bishop and introducing myself.
Also at the table was one of the executives of St. Joseph Media (they own Salt and Light and a lot of other TV channels and publications) and then a couple who I'm assuming is S+L's biggest donators. And finally, one of my coworkers, who's daughter I've made friends with while here, and of course Father Rosica. I think it is safe to say I was at the cool table.
Before we began eating, Father Rosica addressed everyone there and thanked them for coming. Part of his greeting was to announce the latest news of S+L, of which I was a part of.
"And tonight we have with us the first intern from The University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas, Michelle Gautreau, who I'm proud to say made her news debut on Salt and Light tonight with Zoom. We're happy to have her here and are pleased with the work we're doing." Everyone began to clap and scan the room to see who he was talking about - 1oo pairs of eyes found a slightly embarrassed, red-faced girl smiling in the middle of the room who waved nervously back.
After a prayer from the Archbishop, we were ready to begin dinner. Our table got to fix our plates first - a nice perk with being BFFs with the bishop. The food was really good - turkey with all sorts of veggies, mashed potatoes, salad and bread. After I ate, I realized how tired I was - I guess the day had finally caught up with me. I was able to talk some more with the bishop and the people at the table before everyone started to head off around 7:00. Two of the Sisters were able to attend the party as well, so I caught a ride back home with them.
I was glad to get back to the convent and into my pajamas. The first order of business was to rewatch my Zoom - I laughed pretty much the whole time, but I was still proud of my efforts. I was able to Skype with some of my family as well - Josh, Beckie and Joanie were in The Woodlands with my parents and their friends Zeke and Ashley, so I was able to tell them about the day's events.
It's weird to think this concludes my third week of work here in Toronto. Before I had left, everyone told me the whole thing would zoom by in no time, and although I had agreed at the time, it's only hitting me now that it has. I've had some hard moments without my family, and I've missed Ben and the puppy dogs pretty much every minute I've been here, but it all gets put on the back burner when you're busy.
I'll be getting back into Houston on Tuesday night, weather providing. I'll be in Houston/The Woodlands until January 3rd. I'll be back in Toronto from the 3rd until the 16th, when I'll go back to Houston just in time for the second semester of my senior year to begin.
If you haven't seen my Zoom yet, feel free to check it out at saltandlighttv.org - the video should be accessible on the front page on the right hand side. I believe I'm also doing Zoom on Monday, so I'll let everyone know if that goes through as well.
Wishing everyone a good night back home,
Michelle
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Working Girl
Today, for the first time ever, I made it to the corner just as a railcar was approaching. I took it as a good omen and quickly walked towards the open doors. I was too busy concentrating on getting a ticket out of my pocket that I didn't take the time to notice the capacity issues of this particular railcar - it was so full that people were standing on the steps of the entrances (which is illegal). I considered wedging myself in as well, but the conductor closed the door when he realized I wasn't acting as quickly as perhaps he'd want me to. Can we say rude?
I crossed the corner to Second Cup and got a muffin and some juice before returning to wait for another railcar. I'm not sure why they run at such inconsistent times, but it's very inconvenient. Eleven minutes later, a less full railcar approached and I was able to get on.
Work was chaotic. Salt + Light takes off the Wednesday before Christmas until January 4, which is a pretty nice break. However, because there is no one in the office, besides those managing the live TV feed, they have to produce their programs in advance to compensate. Everyone seemed busy with two or three projects today, trying to wrap voice overs up or finishing the editing of their special. So, fittingly, today was the day everyone realized they had an intern to use.
I've never been this busy since being at S+L - I kept getting things dropped off at my desk to work on. I like to think of myself as a typically organized person (the state of my apartment may suggest otherwise), so I like to complete projects one at a time. Today I felt overwhelmed as I had to jump from assignment to assignment. I was worried half the time that I would get tax receipts messed up, or something would get lost in all of the papers and I'd be accountable for messing something up.
I needed a break and a decent lunch. I tidied my desk, grabbed my coat and took my lunch break around 1:30. Typically for lunch I eat Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup, saltine crackers, and a fruit cup - all things that can be bought at a convenience store and don't require refrigeration. I'm sure I could use the Sister's refrigerator, but this is just less complicated.
Today, the last thing I felt like eating was another bowl of soup. A lot of people bring their lunches in, but in the event that they forget, almost everyone gets a lunch from Spring Roll, a Thai restaurant a block from work. I don't usually eat Thai food because of allergies, but I was set on finding something to eat there; I just wanted a warm and filling meal. Thankfully, it was an "Americanized" Thai restaurant and I was able to get Chicken, rice, and veggies. It wasn't anything special, but it hit the spot - with out giving me an allergic reaction. So, lunch was successful.
I jumped back into my work in the afternoon. I finally thought to bring my iPod with me to work, so I listened to Christmas music as I made DVDs, alphabetized letters and filled out receipt forms. Somewhere in the middle of "Jingle Bell Rock", I heard someone call my name. I looked up to see a friend of mine from Marketing with a bunch of Christmas cards and labels in his hands.
He wanted me to hand address the Christmas cards Father Rosica would be sending out to each of the bishops of Canada and two Cardinals. He asked me how my handwriting was and picked up one of the papers I was working on to assess it. I felt myself cringe - my handwriting may be neat, but it's not cursive or loopy enough to be seen on the outer label of a Christmas card going to a bishop. He remarked it was good and I should have no problem. He dropped off 100 Christmas cards and envelopes, as well as a list for the correct spelling, and left me to work.
I turned back on my Christmas music, which seemed fitting for the task, and started to work. I didn't know if I had any extra evelopes, so I couldn't count on messing up. The whole thing was stressful. My hand tensed as I wrote every letter, careful to center everything straight across the card. Halfway through my work, we broke for mass.
I still haven't gotten over the whole having daily mass five feet from my desk thing. I just think it's such a great opportunity for everyone that works there. Plus, I was extra appreciative today because I was able to rest my hand.
Mass ended around 4:00 and I had to finish the cards before the day was over. I went back to my Christmas music and addressing and was able to finish everything by 4:30. I looked back on the cards and figured I had done a nice enough job. Thankfully, I got the same response when I turned them in - they were happy with the final product.
I left work a little after 5:00 and headed over to the Eaton Center, which is the mall in downtwon. Of course I still wasn't convinced I had something good to wear on camera for my Zoom tomorrow. I browsed the shops and was able to find a burgundy dress on clearance. I think I'll wear it tomorrow - and because it's one of my wedding colors, it'll be a little shout out to Ben.
As I was leaving the mall, I was met with a crowd of people outside. Unknown to me at the time, the Olympic torch had just made its way through downtown Toronto on its way to Vancouver, which will be hosting the Winter Olympics in just a few weeks. The mass of people that had congregated to see this was ridiculous. Traffic was completely stopped, which - unfortunately for me - meant no railcar. Get home was intense - I had to walk several blocks against a stream of people flowing back from the event. Finally, I made it to the center of all of the commotion. They had Olympians taking photos with people, but I didn't see the torch. Apparently, they also had a protest by the Native Canadians. All I could hear was "No! (mumble, mumble)" I was later told that they didn't want the torch on their land.
I had to walk the whole way home. It was freezing and I was exhausted. I think the total trip took about 45 minutes or so. On the way home I stopped at Subway for a sandwich - I've figured out now that if you just get a veggie sub, it tastes fine. Something about their meat up here tastes funny. I was thankful when I made it back to the quiet convent and was able to eat dinner. It was an extremely long day, and tomorrow is bound to be similar with my Zoom attempt. I'll make sure to post a link so that everyone can watch it.
Sleep well everyone,
Michelle
I crossed the corner to Second Cup and got a muffin and some juice before returning to wait for another railcar. I'm not sure why they run at such inconsistent times, but it's very inconvenient. Eleven minutes later, a less full railcar approached and I was able to get on.
Work was chaotic. Salt + Light takes off the Wednesday before Christmas until January 4, which is a pretty nice break. However, because there is no one in the office, besides those managing the live TV feed, they have to produce their programs in advance to compensate. Everyone seemed busy with two or three projects today, trying to wrap voice overs up or finishing the editing of their special. So, fittingly, today was the day everyone realized they had an intern to use.
I've never been this busy since being at S+L - I kept getting things dropped off at my desk to work on. I like to think of myself as a typically organized person (the state of my apartment may suggest otherwise), so I like to complete projects one at a time. Today I felt overwhelmed as I had to jump from assignment to assignment. I was worried half the time that I would get tax receipts messed up, or something would get lost in all of the papers and I'd be accountable for messing something up.
I needed a break and a decent lunch. I tidied my desk, grabbed my coat and took my lunch break around 1:30. Typically for lunch I eat Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup, saltine crackers, and a fruit cup - all things that can be bought at a convenience store and don't require refrigeration. I'm sure I could use the Sister's refrigerator, but this is just less complicated.
Today, the last thing I felt like eating was another bowl of soup. A lot of people bring their lunches in, but in the event that they forget, almost everyone gets a lunch from Spring Roll, a Thai restaurant a block from work. I don't usually eat Thai food because of allergies, but I was set on finding something to eat there; I just wanted a warm and filling meal. Thankfully, it was an "Americanized" Thai restaurant and I was able to get Chicken, rice, and veggies. It wasn't anything special, but it hit the spot - with out giving me an allergic reaction. So, lunch was successful.
I jumped back into my work in the afternoon. I finally thought to bring my iPod with me to work, so I listened to Christmas music as I made DVDs, alphabetized letters and filled out receipt forms. Somewhere in the middle of "Jingle Bell Rock", I heard someone call my name. I looked up to see a friend of mine from Marketing with a bunch of Christmas cards and labels in his hands.
He wanted me to hand address the Christmas cards Father Rosica would be sending out to each of the bishops of Canada and two Cardinals. He asked me how my handwriting was and picked up one of the papers I was working on to assess it. I felt myself cringe - my handwriting may be neat, but it's not cursive or loopy enough to be seen on the outer label of a Christmas card going to a bishop. He remarked it was good and I should have no problem. He dropped off 100 Christmas cards and envelopes, as well as a list for the correct spelling, and left me to work.
I turned back on my Christmas music, which seemed fitting for the task, and started to work. I didn't know if I had any extra evelopes, so I couldn't count on messing up. The whole thing was stressful. My hand tensed as I wrote every letter, careful to center everything straight across the card. Halfway through my work, we broke for mass.
I still haven't gotten over the whole having daily mass five feet from my desk thing. I just think it's such a great opportunity for everyone that works there. Plus, I was extra appreciative today because I was able to rest my hand.
Mass ended around 4:00 and I had to finish the cards before the day was over. I went back to my Christmas music and addressing and was able to finish everything by 4:30. I looked back on the cards and figured I had done a nice enough job. Thankfully, I got the same response when I turned them in - they were happy with the final product.
I left work a little after 5:00 and headed over to the Eaton Center, which is the mall in downtwon. Of course I still wasn't convinced I had something good to wear on camera for my Zoom tomorrow. I browsed the shops and was able to find a burgundy dress on clearance. I think I'll wear it tomorrow - and because it's one of my wedding colors, it'll be a little shout out to Ben.
As I was leaving the mall, I was met with a crowd of people outside. Unknown to me at the time, the Olympic torch had just made its way through downtown Toronto on its way to Vancouver, which will be hosting the Winter Olympics in just a few weeks. The mass of people that had congregated to see this was ridiculous. Traffic was completely stopped, which - unfortunately for me - meant no railcar. Get home was intense - I had to walk several blocks against a stream of people flowing back from the event. Finally, I made it to the center of all of the commotion. They had Olympians taking photos with people, but I didn't see the torch. Apparently, they also had a protest by the Native Canadians. All I could hear was "No! (mumble, mumble)" I was later told that they didn't want the torch on their land.
I had to walk the whole way home. It was freezing and I was exhausted. I think the total trip took about 45 minutes or so. On the way home I stopped at Subway for a sandwich - I've figured out now that if you just get a veggie sub, it tastes fine. Something about their meat up here tastes funny. I was thankful when I made it back to the quiet convent and was able to eat dinner. It was an extremely long day, and tomorrow is bound to be similar with my Zoom attempt. I'll make sure to post a link so that everyone can watch it.
Sleep well everyone,
Michelle
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Change in Plans
I spent almost three hours at the mall last night trying to find something "camera appropriate". Of course, I'm sure the wardrobe I brought with me has plenty of viable options, but being the woman that I am, I was convinced otherwise at the time. My thought was some kind of blazer or nice blouse, but I wasn't finding much. As far as stores go up here, we share a lot of the same ones. The only difference I've found is that the selection is reduced. After some serious hunting, I found a nice cardigan that I figured would suffice.
As I explained in my previous post, I was scheduled to do Zoom today. I went into work, started assembling my script immediately. After I had began to write my script, we got word of a breaking story. The story, due to its content, is not blog worthy - especially because I don't know all the details leading up to it. Nevertheless, there were developments in an ongoing priest scandal incident in Nova Scotia. Father Rosica decided that it would not be appropriate to introduce a new host when the content they would be talking about included accusations of sex, pornography, etc. I very much respect and agree with his decision and we more appropriately scheduled me for Friday.
I guess my cardigan will just have to wait for it's time in the spotlight,
Michelle
As I explained in my previous post, I was scheduled to do Zoom today. I went into work, started assembling my script immediately. After I had began to write my script, we got word of a breaking story. The story, due to its content, is not blog worthy - especially because I don't know all the details leading up to it. Nevertheless, there were developments in an ongoing priest scandal incident in Nova Scotia. Father Rosica decided that it would not be appropriate to introduce a new host when the content they would be talking about included accusations of sex, pornography, etc. I very much respect and agree with his decision and we more appropriately scheduled me for Friday.
I guess my cardigan will just have to wait for it's time in the spotlight,
Michelle
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Can You Fail a Screen Test?
I set my alarm clock an hour early for this morning in order to get fully prepared for my screen test. Despite my better efforts, I woke up two hours late.
Ever since I've been in Toronto, my cell phone has shown Texas time, despite the fact that Toronto is an hour later. I'm sure if I reset my phone, the time would adjust to the new time zone, but I appreciate having a little bit of Texas with me at all times. This time difference, however, is sometimes hard to compute when you wake up in the morning. Today, faced with a digital image of 6:55, I couldn't grasp what time it was. For a moment I was bummed I had missed my 6:00 alarm. And then it hit me that it was actually 7:55 and the panic set in.
I don't think I've ever gotten fully ready - shower, hair done, make-up, etc. - in 40 minutes. It takes forever to get "work" ready in the morning if you're a girl. Despite this, I tried desperately to make the new time constraint work - an effort that actually paid off.
I made it to S+L a few minutes past 9:00. A cup of tea and a blueberry muffin in hand, I started to browse the Catholic news sites for possible stories for Zoom. I had planned to used whatever stories I helped to contribute to the actual Zoom show as my script for my screen test. I was able to write two - one on a former professor from the Univ. of Steubenville, Ohio who made an online version of the current healthcare reform bill the senate is trying to pass, and the second on the 5th missionary to be murdered in a short span of time.
As the hosts of Zoom put the finishing touches on their scripts, I sat at my computer quietly reading my script under my breath. I've done public speaking before - I was a lecturer at my home parish for instance - but I've never done anything with television speaking. I definitely don't have that "Tonight on the evening news..." voice and the last thing I wanted to do was sound differently than I normally do.
A few friends I've made at the office took turns coming up to me asking if I was nervous. In all honesty, I was. I assumed if they were asking me to even do a screen test, they were open to me actually hosting the show. But I was still nervous of "failing" the test. What if I did the screen test, and instead of giving me feedback and scheduling a show, they sent me back to my desk to stuff envelopes the rest of my internship? Talk about awkward. Despite my hesitations, everyone else was very encouraging and told me not to worry.
I watched the filming of the English and French Zoom before they filmed me. I was hooked to every word each of the hosts said during filming. I watched their movements, head tilts, and timing of smiles - I was desperate for any useful tips. Once their shows were done, it was my turn. Hopeful and anxious, I made my way onto the set and faced the camera.
The first read was beyond awkward. This was just testing out the teleprompter and my speaking speed. I stopped after my first story, gathered my nerves, and announced I was going to restart. My second time was decent. I started to adjust to the lights and hearing only myself speak in the quiet room. I felt my nerves start to ease - this was going to be do-able.
And then the door to the studio opened.
In walked my audience - friends from the office and a few of the producers. I couldn't do anything but laugh. To be honest, I didn't really mind their presence. By then, I think there was a total of 4 or 5 other people there just to watch how I'd do. It was then that I found out that my supervisor, and also a producer, wanted to join the crowd to watch me live. My nerves picked up again.
She fussed the crowd when she made it into the room, but I quickly reassured her that they were my support system. She allowed them to stay. Things went quick after that. All I heard was "Ok, Stanby.....roll camera....and action!" I had to use every fiber in my being not to laugh - it was just such a different intensity that newspaper journalism. I channeled my laughter into what I had hoped looked like a nice smile.
"Hello, and welcome to Zoom!"
Everything was quiet and still. I couldn't tell how loud I was. I focused on the yellow text of the teleprompter and tried to speak slow. I found myself thinking way too much - I felt like I was having a whole conversation in my head as I spoke aloud. I found myself getting dizzy by the teleprompter. I tried to look down at my notes. I tried to sound natural. I heard myself say "That's it for Zoom. If you're joining us on our digital cable network, please stay tuned for an episode of Catholic Focus." I told myself to smile. And then to breathe. And it was over.
Or so I thought. My supervisor interjected a question. "Tell us who you are and why you're here."
Surprisingly, I didn't miss a beat.
"Hello, my name is Michelle Gautreau and I'm a senior history major at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Tx. I'm interning at Salt and Light in order to gain a better understanding of Catholic television broadcasting."
Someone shouted "Tres bien!" - the screen test was over.
I got a lot of feedback from those who had come to watch. For one, I needed more colorful clothing - I was wearing a black cami under a black blazer. Secondly, I needed jewelry - preferably a necklace. I was also told to slow down - I knew I'd struggle with this one. And also I apparently "sing" when I speak - I hit a lot of different notes, high to low. I'd have to bring the notes closer together - not necessarily monotone, but I think it strikes the right starting point.
The video was taken from the camera and placed onto a computer - I was called in to watch myself. Seeing myself speak on screen was really weird. It wasn't even an appearance issue, it was more so little things. I was blinking weird - I'm thinking due to the teleprompter. I could tell that I was nervous just from watching - something I'd have to overcome before the next filming. And boy did I talk fast. At the time, I thought I was talking annoyingly slow, but seeing it now made me laugh.
I was immediately booked to host Zoom tomorrow - the fastest turn around they've done. I'm flattered and appreciative that everyone thought I did well and I'm excited to do it for real now. I'll make sure to post the link so that everyone can watch the edited video on the S+L website.
The rest of my day was pretty quiet in contrast to this, so I am afraid I will have to leave it at this. Make sure to check back for a link to see my Catholic Canadian Television debut!
Available for autographs,
Michelle
Ever since I've been in Toronto, my cell phone has shown Texas time, despite the fact that Toronto is an hour later. I'm sure if I reset my phone, the time would adjust to the new time zone, but I appreciate having a little bit of Texas with me at all times. This time difference, however, is sometimes hard to compute when you wake up in the morning. Today, faced with a digital image of 6:55, I couldn't grasp what time it was. For a moment I was bummed I had missed my 6:00 alarm. And then it hit me that it was actually 7:55 and the panic set in.
I don't think I've ever gotten fully ready - shower, hair done, make-up, etc. - in 40 minutes. It takes forever to get "work" ready in the morning if you're a girl. Despite this, I tried desperately to make the new time constraint work - an effort that actually paid off.
I made it to S+L a few minutes past 9:00. A cup of tea and a blueberry muffin in hand, I started to browse the Catholic news sites for possible stories for Zoom. I had planned to used whatever stories I helped to contribute to the actual Zoom show as my script for my screen test. I was able to write two - one on a former professor from the Univ. of Steubenville, Ohio who made an online version of the current healthcare reform bill the senate is trying to pass, and the second on the 5th missionary to be murdered in a short span of time.
As the hosts of Zoom put the finishing touches on their scripts, I sat at my computer quietly reading my script under my breath. I've done public speaking before - I was a lecturer at my home parish for instance - but I've never done anything with television speaking. I definitely don't have that "Tonight on the evening news..." voice and the last thing I wanted to do was sound differently than I normally do.
A few friends I've made at the office took turns coming up to me asking if I was nervous. In all honesty, I was. I assumed if they were asking me to even do a screen test, they were open to me actually hosting the show. But I was still nervous of "failing" the test. What if I did the screen test, and instead of giving me feedback and scheduling a show, they sent me back to my desk to stuff envelopes the rest of my internship? Talk about awkward. Despite my hesitations, everyone else was very encouraging and told me not to worry.
I watched the filming of the English and French Zoom before they filmed me. I was hooked to every word each of the hosts said during filming. I watched their movements, head tilts, and timing of smiles - I was desperate for any useful tips. Once their shows were done, it was my turn. Hopeful and anxious, I made my way onto the set and faced the camera.
The first read was beyond awkward. This was just testing out the teleprompter and my speaking speed. I stopped after my first story, gathered my nerves, and announced I was going to restart. My second time was decent. I started to adjust to the lights and hearing only myself speak in the quiet room. I felt my nerves start to ease - this was going to be do-able.
And then the door to the studio opened.
In walked my audience - friends from the office and a few of the producers. I couldn't do anything but laugh. To be honest, I didn't really mind their presence. By then, I think there was a total of 4 or 5 other people there just to watch how I'd do. It was then that I found out that my supervisor, and also a producer, wanted to join the crowd to watch me live. My nerves picked up again.
She fussed the crowd when she made it into the room, but I quickly reassured her that they were my support system. She allowed them to stay. Things went quick after that. All I heard was "Ok, Stanby.....roll camera....and action!" I had to use every fiber in my being not to laugh - it was just such a different intensity that newspaper journalism. I channeled my laughter into what I had hoped looked like a nice smile.
"Hello, and welcome to Zoom!"
Everything was quiet and still. I couldn't tell how loud I was. I focused on the yellow text of the teleprompter and tried to speak slow. I found myself thinking way too much - I felt like I was having a whole conversation in my head as I spoke aloud. I found myself getting dizzy by the teleprompter. I tried to look down at my notes. I tried to sound natural. I heard myself say "That's it for Zoom. If you're joining us on our digital cable network, please stay tuned for an episode of Catholic Focus." I told myself to smile. And then to breathe. And it was over.
Or so I thought. My supervisor interjected a question. "Tell us who you are and why you're here."
Surprisingly, I didn't miss a beat.
"Hello, my name is Michelle Gautreau and I'm a senior history major at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Tx. I'm interning at Salt and Light in order to gain a better understanding of Catholic television broadcasting."
Someone shouted "Tres bien!" - the screen test was over.
I got a lot of feedback from those who had come to watch. For one, I needed more colorful clothing - I was wearing a black cami under a black blazer. Secondly, I needed jewelry - preferably a necklace. I was also told to slow down - I knew I'd struggle with this one. And also I apparently "sing" when I speak - I hit a lot of different notes, high to low. I'd have to bring the notes closer together - not necessarily monotone, but I think it strikes the right starting point.
The video was taken from the camera and placed onto a computer - I was called in to watch myself. Seeing myself speak on screen was really weird. It wasn't even an appearance issue, it was more so little things. I was blinking weird - I'm thinking due to the teleprompter. I could tell that I was nervous just from watching - something I'd have to overcome before the next filming. And boy did I talk fast. At the time, I thought I was talking annoyingly slow, but seeing it now made me laugh.
I was immediately booked to host Zoom tomorrow - the fastest turn around they've done. I'm flattered and appreciative that everyone thought I did well and I'm excited to do it for real now. I'll make sure to post the link so that everyone can watch the edited video on the S+L website.
The rest of my day was pretty quiet in contrast to this, so I am afraid I will have to leave it at this. Make sure to check back for a link to see my Catholic Canadian Television debut!
Available for autographs,
Michelle
Monday, December 14, 2009
A Case of The Mondays
Thankfully, as a student, Mondays aren't so big a deal. The whole week tends to blend together, and interrupting this laid-back blend, is the occasional obligation to attend class. It wasn't until I started this internship that I understood why Monday's are so difficult for people who have full time jobs.
For one, they come out of nowhere. My weekends blink by mockingly these days. My schedule this past semester was ideal - I had no classes on Friday and my first class on Monday did not start until the afternoon. And even more delightful will be my schedule this upcoming semester - no class on Mondays or Fridays.
Secondly, I have nothing to do. Most things are tied up and finished on Fridays and with the new week, I find myself without assignment. I think this is largely because everyone else is wondering "What should I begin with?" too.
Thirdly, Mondays are bad because on Mondays, you're hit with the realization that another week has passed and you haven't accomplished anywhere close to what you meant to. I used to be able to get some work done on the weekends. Lately, I'm too tired. I don't know how working people get their errands done. I space mine out daily over an entire week; if you work full time, you'd have to try and get everything done in one day. I just can't comprehend.
So on this Monday, I was definitely having a case of the Mondays. Again, I worked more on receipts and sending letters. I also had the opportunity to write one of the stories for Zoom. To be honest, I can't remember very many details about my day, except this one.
My supervisor called me into her office this afternoon to assess how I was doing so far. I've been keeping an Excel sheet (my dad would be so proud), compiling the hours I've worked and what tasks I did on that day. I had my supervisor look this over and sign off on it for documentation for my class. At the end of our meeting, I was told I'd be doing a screen test tomorrow for Zoom. As I've talked about before, Zoom is a 4-5 minute broadcast done every night on Catholic Canadian and world events. It's just you and the camera basically. Though I got a little nervous, for the most part I was just excited for the opportunity.
I think I'll close on that note. I'm too tired to try and be more creative with this entry.
Sweet dreams,
Michelle
For one, they come out of nowhere. My weekends blink by mockingly these days. My schedule this past semester was ideal - I had no classes on Friday and my first class on Monday did not start until the afternoon. And even more delightful will be my schedule this upcoming semester - no class on Mondays or Fridays.
Secondly, I have nothing to do. Most things are tied up and finished on Fridays and with the new week, I find myself without assignment. I think this is largely because everyone else is wondering "What should I begin with?" too.
Thirdly, Mondays are bad because on Mondays, you're hit with the realization that another week has passed and you haven't accomplished anywhere close to what you meant to. I used to be able to get some work done on the weekends. Lately, I'm too tired. I don't know how working people get their errands done. I space mine out daily over an entire week; if you work full time, you'd have to try and get everything done in one day. I just can't comprehend.
So on this Monday, I was definitely having a case of the Mondays. Again, I worked more on receipts and sending letters. I also had the opportunity to write one of the stories for Zoom. To be honest, I can't remember very many details about my day, except this one.
My supervisor called me into her office this afternoon to assess how I was doing so far. I've been keeping an Excel sheet (my dad would be so proud), compiling the hours I've worked and what tasks I did on that day. I had my supervisor look this over and sign off on it for documentation for my class. At the end of our meeting, I was told I'd be doing a screen test tomorrow for Zoom. As I've talked about before, Zoom is a 4-5 minute broadcast done every night on Catholic Canadian and world events. It's just you and the camera basically. Though I got a little nervous, for the most part I was just excited for the opportunity.
I think I'll close on that note. I'm too tired to try and be more creative with this entry.
Sweet dreams,
Michelle
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Good Morning, Salt and Light Television
For the first time ever, I was early to work today (I'm sure my parents are cringing now). I'm supposed to work from 9-5:00, and I usually show up around 9:05 - it's all the railcar's fault. Any way, I'm typically a late person, so showing up 15 minutes early for work is quite an accomplishment.
At 9 AM, we open our phone lines for calls, which meant I had to be seated and ready to answer them at 8:55. I was briefed on how to work the switchboard earlier in the week, so I felt confident that I'd be able to manage things. When the first call came through, I calmly answered the phone with a "Good morning, Salt and Light Television" and the person on the other end politely answered back in French.
This was one aspect I had not anticipated. I faltered for a moment, trying to decided whether or not I should responded with a "Bonjour!" and try to wing it. I quickly decided I wouldn't be able to make it two or three sentences in, and I explained to the caller that I would be transferring them to our French department. A few moments later, one of our French speakers came up to the front desk with a written out pronunciation of how to say "Hold on one moment, please" in French. Apparently the French caller did not appreciate that I didn't speak to them in their native tongue. I practiced it a few times and kept it by the phone just in case the situation were to happen again.
The morning passed quickly - the phone rang every few minutes it seemed. I also had to let in any visitors, get them signed in, bring stuff to the mail room to get shipped and deliver messages to people if there were not in the office when someone called for them. For the most part, it was just quiet. Because I was working the front desk, not many people pass that way during the day. Even if things are boring when I'm working in the main office, at least there's people constantly moving around you.
Before everyone broke for lunch, Father Rosica celebrated mass. Because I couldn't leave the front to go sit in the chapel, I stood close enough to hear and see, while still being able to make it to the phone if it would ring. I had to step away from mass a few times to answer the phone. They would politely ask for so and so, and I would respond "I'm sorry, but everyone is in mass right now. May I take a message." Everyone responded the same way - "They're in mass? Oh - I'm so sorry to interrupt. No, no it's not that important. I'll call back later." Thankfully the phones stayed quiet long enough for me to receive communion.
I had someone relieve me while I ate my lunch. I walked to the corner to a McDonalds to get a salad. It was awful. I don't know why this is, but every food place from America that has been brought in simply does not taste the same. I really don't understand why. I forced myself to eat some just so I wouldn't be hungry and then tossed the rest.
The afternoon was slow as I anticipated leaving at 5:00 to go meet my sister, Jamie, in Buffalo. She was there doing an interview for a residency program. We had planned earlier in the week that I would drive there and stay the night, and then drive back the next day when she left for Houston. I was able to get a driver service to take me there and back and had scheduled for them to pick me up from work for 5:00. My driver arrived five til; right on time.
He told me the drive should take anywhere from 2-2 1/2 hours, depending on traffic. The driver was pleasant - a older man, married with four grown sons. We talked pretty much the whole way up. When he found out I hadn't experienced Tim Horton's coffee yet (it's like the Dukin Donuts or Starbucks of the North), he stopped to get us both a cup. He also assured me we would have to stop and see Niagara Falls - he said it would be a shame if I didn't see them while I was in the area.
During the Christmas season, the falls are decorated with lights. When we pulled up to the side, I immediately noticed that anything close to the mist - the guard rails and side walk for instance - were completely frozen and covered in ice. They were quite a site to behold. The waterfalls are broken up into the American Falls and then the Canadian Falls, which are the U-shaped falls and more commonly known. They sit right next to each other though. At that time, green lights were shining over the falls - giving them a very eerie, almost fake look.
I made it to Buffalo around 7:45. The area was covered in snow. This time it was nice snow - not the nasty slush I had encountered earlier in the week. The temperature was similar to Toronto's - perhaps a little less windy. Nevertheless, it was still freezing. Jamie and me were able to catch a cab and eat at a little Italian restaurant. The food was cheap and the portions were huge - I didn't even eat a third of my plate and it still could have served 3 or 4 more.
After dinner, we walked around a bit and ended up at a small coffee house. After getting some hot chocolate, we made our way back to where Jamie had been staying. A friend of hers, named Jaime actually, was out of town and let us stay there. I had brought some of S +L documentaries with me, so we watched one before going to bed.
In the morning, we were able to get a nice brunch in at IHOP before she left for her flight. The driver from the day before picked us up at 1:00 and brought us to the Buffalo airport, where we dropped Jamie off. On the way back to Toronto, the driver stopped again at the falls and let me take some pictures of it in the daylight.
I got back to Toronto around 3:30 utterly exhausted. But, I'm glad I was able to see Jamie and get out for a night. I felt a little more homesick than normal, though, when I returned to the convent. In an effort to lighten my mood, I downloaded some Christmas music. I dozed off listening to "O Holy Night" and dreamed of the Christmas celebration me and my family will be having back in Houston in eleven days.
An Early Merry Christmas from Up North,
Michelle
At 9 AM, we open our phone lines for calls, which meant I had to be seated and ready to answer them at 8:55. I was briefed on how to work the switchboard earlier in the week, so I felt confident that I'd be able to manage things. When the first call came through, I calmly answered the phone with a "Good morning, Salt and Light Television" and the person on the other end politely answered back in French.
This was one aspect I had not anticipated. I faltered for a moment, trying to decided whether or not I should responded with a "Bonjour!" and try to wing it. I quickly decided I wouldn't be able to make it two or three sentences in, and I explained to the caller that I would be transferring them to our French department. A few moments later, one of our French speakers came up to the front desk with a written out pronunciation of how to say "Hold on one moment, please" in French. Apparently the French caller did not appreciate that I didn't speak to them in their native tongue. I practiced it a few times and kept it by the phone just in case the situation were to happen again.
The morning passed quickly - the phone rang every few minutes it seemed. I also had to let in any visitors, get them signed in, bring stuff to the mail room to get shipped and deliver messages to people if there were not in the office when someone called for them. For the most part, it was just quiet. Because I was working the front desk, not many people pass that way during the day. Even if things are boring when I'm working in the main office, at least there's people constantly moving around you.
Before everyone broke for lunch, Father Rosica celebrated mass. Because I couldn't leave the front to go sit in the chapel, I stood close enough to hear and see, while still being able to make it to the phone if it would ring. I had to step away from mass a few times to answer the phone. They would politely ask for so and so, and I would respond "I'm sorry, but everyone is in mass right now. May I take a message." Everyone responded the same way - "They're in mass? Oh - I'm so sorry to interrupt. No, no it's not that important. I'll call back later." Thankfully the phones stayed quiet long enough for me to receive communion.
I had someone relieve me while I ate my lunch. I walked to the corner to a McDonalds to get a salad. It was awful. I don't know why this is, but every food place from America that has been brought in simply does not taste the same. I really don't understand why. I forced myself to eat some just so I wouldn't be hungry and then tossed the rest.
The afternoon was slow as I anticipated leaving at 5:00 to go meet my sister, Jamie, in Buffalo. She was there doing an interview for a residency program. We had planned earlier in the week that I would drive there and stay the night, and then drive back the next day when she left for Houston. I was able to get a driver service to take me there and back and had scheduled for them to pick me up from work for 5:00. My driver arrived five til; right on time.
He told me the drive should take anywhere from 2-2 1/2 hours, depending on traffic. The driver was pleasant - a older man, married with four grown sons. We talked pretty much the whole way up. When he found out I hadn't experienced Tim Horton's coffee yet (it's like the Dukin Donuts or Starbucks of the North), he stopped to get us both a cup. He also assured me we would have to stop and see Niagara Falls - he said it would be a shame if I didn't see them while I was in the area.
During the Christmas season, the falls are decorated with lights. When we pulled up to the side, I immediately noticed that anything close to the mist - the guard rails and side walk for instance - were completely frozen and covered in ice. They were quite a site to behold. The waterfalls are broken up into the American Falls and then the Canadian Falls, which are the U-shaped falls and more commonly known. They sit right next to each other though. At that time, green lights were shining over the falls - giving them a very eerie, almost fake look.
I made it to Buffalo around 7:45. The area was covered in snow. This time it was nice snow - not the nasty slush I had encountered earlier in the week. The temperature was similar to Toronto's - perhaps a little less windy. Nevertheless, it was still freezing. Jamie and me were able to catch a cab and eat at a little Italian restaurant. The food was cheap and the portions were huge - I didn't even eat a third of my plate and it still could have served 3 or 4 more.
After dinner, we walked around a bit and ended up at a small coffee house. After getting some hot chocolate, we made our way back to where Jamie had been staying. A friend of hers, named Jaime actually, was out of town and let us stay there. I had brought some of S +L documentaries with me, so we watched one before going to bed.
In the morning, we were able to get a nice brunch in at IHOP before she left for her flight. The driver from the day before picked us up at 1:00 and brought us to the Buffalo airport, where we dropped Jamie off. On the way back to Toronto, the driver stopped again at the falls and let me take some pictures of it in the daylight.
I got back to Toronto around 3:30 utterly exhausted. But, I'm glad I was able to see Jamie and get out for a night. I felt a little more homesick than normal, though, when I returned to the convent. In an effort to lighten my mood, I downloaded some Christmas music. I dozed off listening to "O Holy Night" and dreamed of the Christmas celebration me and my family will be having back in Houston in eleven days.
An Early Merry Christmas from Up North,
Michelle
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Getting the Creeps in Canada
Last night I kept replaying the moment during Hurricane Ike when a twister drove a tree through the ceiling of my parents home. It's an odd memory to recount, but in context it makes sense. The convent I'm staying at is a 130 year old Victorian home. Beautiful though it may be, it creeps and moans with the slightest of movement.
Last night as I was going to bed, I kept hearing the strangest sounds. For one, the glass moves in the windows. All it takes is a little force and it sounds as if someone is knocking periodically on the window. My windows happen to be kind of set in to the house, causing the wind to funnel through - the sound reminds me of hurricane wind, honestly - thus my recount of Ike. With the change in cold weather, all the wood in the house is beginning to buckle and change as well. As I was drifting to sleep, I'd keep hearing a noise that literally sounded like someone just took a step in my room. My eyes would snap open and I'd nervously scan the room. I may have watched too many episodes of Ghost Hunters, but honestly, you could film a Halloween "Scary Sounds" CD in this house.
Unfortunately I didn't sleep very well and I was tired when I finally left for work. Thankfully I made it to the stop in time to catch the first railcar. Crowed though it was, I was able to find a seat by an elderly woman. As I tried to collect myself, fixing my windblown hair and readjusting my coat, the woman I had sat down next to leaned in to about an inch from my face. Caught off guard, I simply sat there starring back. She began to speak in a lanuage I could not understand and all I could so was say "I'm sorry, I don't understand." Because of the crowded car, there were about 7 people who were either watching our exchange or simply listening in.
The woman looked down after she realized I couldn't understand what she was saying and I followed her gaze. I looked just in time to see her pull her left hand out of her coat pocket, exposing only a palm. Her fingers had all been cut off, or so it appeared to me - all at a different length. I tried not to show my shock, and again all I could do was apologize. I looked up to see two guys witnessing the whole thing - their faces didn't hide their shock as well. I looked back when the woman began to laugh, a very low, eerie laugh. Slowly she pulled out her right hand; a perfect match to the left. As she continued to laugh, I again said I was sorry and stood up, excusing myself past the two gentlemen, and made my way to a different part of the car.
I have no idea what she was asking for or trying to tell me. At first I assumed she was homeless, but I find it hard to explain why a homeless woman would get onto a railcar for $2.75. I don't know, either way it creeped me out thoroughly.
Work passed as normal. I've been asked to work the receptionist desk tomorrow. I'll be answering phone calls and welcoming guests as they come in. It should be a simple enough tasks, but I'm worried about getting bored. I guess we'll see how it goes.
A safe night to all back home,
Michelle
Last night as I was going to bed, I kept hearing the strangest sounds. For one, the glass moves in the windows. All it takes is a little force and it sounds as if someone is knocking periodically on the window. My windows happen to be kind of set in to the house, causing the wind to funnel through - the sound reminds me of hurricane wind, honestly - thus my recount of Ike. With the change in cold weather, all the wood in the house is beginning to buckle and change as well. As I was drifting to sleep, I'd keep hearing a noise that literally sounded like someone just took a step in my room. My eyes would snap open and I'd nervously scan the room. I may have watched too many episodes of Ghost Hunters, but honestly, you could film a Halloween "Scary Sounds" CD in this house.
Unfortunately I didn't sleep very well and I was tired when I finally left for work. Thankfully I made it to the stop in time to catch the first railcar. Crowed though it was, I was able to find a seat by an elderly woman. As I tried to collect myself, fixing my windblown hair and readjusting my coat, the woman I had sat down next to leaned in to about an inch from my face. Caught off guard, I simply sat there starring back. She began to speak in a lanuage I could not understand and all I could so was say "I'm sorry, I don't understand." Because of the crowded car, there were about 7 people who were either watching our exchange or simply listening in.
The woman looked down after she realized I couldn't understand what she was saying and I followed her gaze. I looked just in time to see her pull her left hand out of her coat pocket, exposing only a palm. Her fingers had all been cut off, or so it appeared to me - all at a different length. I tried not to show my shock, and again all I could do was apologize. I looked up to see two guys witnessing the whole thing - their faces didn't hide their shock as well. I looked back when the woman began to laugh, a very low, eerie laugh. Slowly she pulled out her right hand; a perfect match to the left. As she continued to laugh, I again said I was sorry and stood up, excusing myself past the two gentlemen, and made my way to a different part of the car.
I have no idea what she was asking for or trying to tell me. At first I assumed she was homeless, but I find it hard to explain why a homeless woman would get onto a railcar for $2.75. I don't know, either way it creeped me out thoroughly.
Work passed as normal. I've been asked to work the receptionist desk tomorrow. I'll be answering phone calls and welcoming guests as they come in. It should be a simple enough tasks, but I'm worried about getting bored. I guess we'll see how it goes.
A safe night to all back home,
Michelle
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
