Two days, Two articles!

The first two days at my internship have been surprisingly smooth. I was anticipating a culture shock but it's been quite the opposite. I was put to work right away yesterday inputing a list of NGO events for Third Sector's website. I have my own corner office space with plenty of room for supplies, papers, even food. Offices in the UK are much more spacious and collaborative than those in the U.S due to the lack of cubicles. In fact, 4 or 5 staffers usually share one long desk.

The editors have trusted me enough to man the phones myself. My first task yesterday was to call several British NGOs including the Institute of Fundraising and acevo and fact-check/get additional info on their upcoming events. Every person I spoke with was friendly and helpful.

Today, I upped the stakes by researching and writing not one but two web articles. One was on "Charity Talks," a year-long lecture series for non-profit workers. The second article was on a contest offering a total of 6 million pounds for two organizations that demonstrate effective social enterprise, i.e. charity or something that benefits society. I conducted a quick interview for each story. Considering I used to loathe interviewing sources, it was a remarkable turnaround and it's giving me confidence that I can continue with journalism in the future. I can't wait to see the articles on the site tomorrow. I will post the links then.

This is the first time in a while I've worked full day hours, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. I really like the whole scheme. Dressing up, getting my coffee, taking the tube, arriving at my desk...The working world is underrated.