Budding journalists from RMIT University embarked on their first official task in Melbourne’s CBD yesterday afternoon.
The six future writers, pictured below, were more than eager to begin their maiden assignment.
And if time permitted, catch a quick feed in Little Lonsdale Street afterward.
Brimming with excitement and a slight sensation of hunger, the keen journalists ventured to the Melbourne City Council Offices on Swanston Street – their task to display introductory journalistic protocol and collect a small memento from their travel.
A blurry photo outside the Melbourne City Council Offices was reflective of the journalists’ buzzing excitement that day. Pictured left to right: Athos Sirianos, Frank Gustalegname, Will Watson, Jack Alfonso, Chris Nice, Daniel Miranda
With the knowledge they had gathered in the tutorial that had just passed, the small band of journalists conducted themselves with self-described “due diligence and purpose”, and displayed the key skills necessary when introducing oneself to another person.
By stating their name, location and purpose, journalists can hope create a stable foundation with the person they hope to acquire information from.
But as Will Watson quickly found out, this protocol was not immune to potential awkwardness.
When asking to collect a brochure, the main objective of the assignment, Watson was met with a puzzled look from the council receptionist who, bemused by his request, told the young journalist to “help himself” to the countless brochures that filled the entire room.
Yet this did little to dampen the journalists’ spirit, who after posing awkwardly for a not-so-quick snap, headed down to the Wednesday Lunch Special in Little Lonsdale Street.
“First assignment done and a $16 meal deal to celebrate – doesn’t get much better than that!” – Jack Alfonso
“I’m glad we followed the protocol despite that little awkward patch,” Daniel Miranda said.
The newly formed group hope to have more journalistic travels together in the future, and hope to broaden their skills as their course progresses.
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