Radio Department Intern Profile
Tiffany Magby is a junior radio major at Columbia College Chicago. During the spring 2008 semester she interned with NBC-TV, Channel 5. Last summer she interned at Radio Disney where she worked in production and promotions. Tiffany took time out of her schedule to answer some questions about her Columbia College experience.1. Before attending Columbia College Chicago, you were involved in the performing arts. At what age did you know that you were artistically inclined?
At the age of 5, my Twin sister and I were selected for the acting roles of Oprah’s daughters in a movie called, “There are No Children Here." I was naturally curious about what went on behind the scenes with the stage crew, and the lights, and the camera of course. It was like I was instantly plugged into the outlet of my passion.
2. What advice were you given by faculty and staff in regards to the internship?
Wow, where do I start? I was encouraged so much by faculty and staff at Columbia! I remember my first week or so in my “Intro to Radio Class” with Hope Daniels, I will never forget that Tom Joyce spoke about the importance of participating in internships before we (the class) graduated. And that stuck with me. The empowerment of my mentors at Columbia has kept me grounded and pushing for success.
3. Dance has always been a true love for you. Would it be correct to say that Radio Disney was a perfect choice because of the many options they offered (dance, music, writing, and production)?
Yes!!! Radio Disney was the complete package to mold me into an even more, well-rounded person. As an Intern, Road Crew Member, Board-Op, and Talent, you have to be well versed in all aspects. As an intern I co-produced the weekly Public Affairs show along side the Production Director, wrote copy, created/taught dance choreography to Disney Soundtracks, and edited interviews! Those were my building blocks. I not only gained technical experience, I gained the DISCIPLINE that is key to overcoming adversity.
4. How did the Radio Marketing and Promotions course assist you in the internship?
With that course, I learned about how a Promotions Department put together an event. My internship gave me the hands on experience and understanding of how closely the Account Executives in the Sales Department worked with the Promotions Coordinators.
5. What was a typical day like for you as an intern at Disney?
My day started at 8:45 AM every day at Radio Disney office on Michigan Ave. A daily checklist of projects I worked on was my best friend. From writing intro’s, packing for weekend events, I did it all. One thing I love about internships is that there is so much room for personal and professional growth.
6. During the spring 2008 semester you were at Channel 5. What made you pursue a television internship?
As a regular audience member at “In the Loop with I Village”, I came frequently for the giveaways. By my third visit, I wasn’t even paying attention to the show anymore, I was watching what was going on in the background. My mom asked me, “Why don’t you see if they have any internships?" And I did. It turned out that the Associate Producer I asked was a former Columbia College grad, and next thing you know, a month in a half later, I was a Production Intern for NBC!
7. The show you were originally working on was canceled in mid March. From an intern's point of view, what stood out for you during the closing days of the show?
What I realized was that, things like this happen all the time. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been in the business, no one is safe from the chopping block. If this is what you want, you got to develop thick skin, and never give up on your passion, and most importantly yourself.
8. Leaving the show opened up another avenue for you: Newsroom. How did that internship come to fruition?
It was not easy. I was blessed to have been transferred to the Newsroom. Staying persistent with staff definitely paid off in the end, because the News Assignment Desk was more than happy to welcome me in. There were so many doors that opened for me. From that perspective, I was in the middle of all the action. I got to work with Warner Saunders, Alex Perez, Art Norman, Camille Edwards (News Directors), Writers, Producers, and Assignment Editors. My proudest moment was when I worked on a Chicago Violence Package with Warner Saunders. It was such an honor. By the end of my internship I was even offered a job at CNN upon graduation.
9. What courses assisted you with both of the internships?
The Radio Producer and Television Production classes taught me a great deal about how to Direct, Write, Create, and execute live shows ranging from both Talk and News. What I didn’t learn at the internships, I learned in class, and vice versa.
10. What advice would you give to a potential intern?
Work hard, make as many contacts as you can and use them. Discipline yourself when it comes to school, and apply that in your internship. Take the extra step to set yourself apart from others. Practice your craft, and you will get better. Set goals for yourself. Have a plan, it will happen.
11. What things are you looking to accomplish before graduation?
Sooo many things are in store for me! Before graduation I plan to continue working for Radio Disney, complete my practicum at WCRX, and even do one more internship!