First Five Days in France

I'm interning in France this summer, along with fellow classmate, Alison Kilts. So far, it has been an adventure! 

There are about 18 students from the U.S., Canada, and Indonesia, and we are based out of a language school (www.alfmed.com) in Perpignan, which is in Southern France. We are busy getting to know the city, making contacts, touring, taking French classes, and brainstorming story ideas. All of our journalistic work will be on www.inperpignan.net. It is not a working site yet, but it should be ready by the end of the week.

I have had so many exciting moments so far! For instance, I was in the grocery store today, and a lady standing next to me began speaking to me in French. I was pleased that she thought I knew French, but I had to admit to her that I did not speak French well enough to communicate with her. She then began visiting with me in English, and we had a great conversation. Many people here are very friendly and willing to help translate or communicate with us in any way they can. I hope they feel as welcome in the United States as I feel here.

Also today, we toured a French television news station (see above logo). I was excited to see that they use Avid NewsCutter! It was interesting to learn how they produce newscasts (which are only 7-10 minutes long, depending on the time of year) and that they even have time for a two-hour break in the middle of the news day! Their news corporations are also undergoing some of the same economic changes as those in the United States.

I'm looking forward to gaining more insight on different journalistic techniques while I'm here. I will continue to keep you updated!

Gillette Vaira