Live from camp: It's not only about sharpening my skills, it's also about the experience gained

6/22/11: Day 4 of camp

The past couple days at ThreeSixty have been a wonderful experience. I have one of the best mentors that I’ve ever had. Dave definitely knows how to keep me more than interested in my topic and is very motivational. My experience with all of this wouldn’t be the same without my mentor. He keeps me up on my feet ready for action.

My fellow campers are great people to work and socialize with. We’ve only met for a few days but it seems like all of us have long-developed friendships. I’m very comfortable at this camp and I don’t feel like I have to keep anything to myself because I feel safe expressing my thoughts and ideas. Everyone has a say at this camp.

I’m very busy all morning until late in the evening. For the past two days I’ve been trying to gather as much information I can about Don Shelby in preparation for my interview with him on Thursday. I couldn’t be happier that my assignment gives me the opportunity to interview Don Shelby. I’ve always thought of him as a “Hall of Fame-er” in the journalism world. I’ve learned that he’s become very passionate on the issues of Global Warming and that he’s currently building a million-dollar Eco friendly house. I can’t wait to go visit this building and interview him about why he’s become so passionate on the issue of Global Warming and what he has done to educate the public.

I am definitely more interested in learning and continuing to learn about the environment because of this camp. I never knew the importance of the our human impact on the environment and now I’ve become more aware on how to be a part of this process. I know I’m going to be taking a lot of this knowledge home and spread it to everyone I know. I’ve also become a more confident journalist. I have gained more knowledge about capturing high quality photos and videos. This camp has not only helped me sharpen skills but also is giving me the experience of interviewing people and asking good questions.

- Yusra Mohamud, Intermediate Camp ’11