So, hello to the capital Abu Dhabi. So far, it has been an overwhelming experience moving here from my hometown Dubai.
Despite not having my friends and family close by, I couldn’t spot much of a difference between the two cities. Although the streets are definitely easier to navigate here in Abu Dhabi.
But now I can no longer blast Ozzy Osbourne’s song “Mama I’m Coming Home” every time I’m on my way back home!
This is show time, a kick start to the new world I have been anticipating and longing for.
Thankfully, I managed to survive the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, which, to be frank, was very wearying.
And then I arrived in the office, hoping to give a good impression on my first day. I was excited yet nervous.
Thankfully, the move to Abu Dhabi has been worth it. The National newspaper has achieved a great prominence in the United Arab Emirates and the whole region.
Thanks to the great workers who made the newspaper what it is today, seven years running and standing strong. Every journalist is outstanding in their own way.
Although I see myself as a journalist already, I know I have a lot to learn before I reach my full capabilities.
So I know I must strive further to reach my potential and match the standards at the newspaper.
As my first day as a trainee, I met my mentor Hugo Berger, a senior national editor.
He showed me around the department, pointing out all the different sections of the newspaper, starting from local news, to business to sports.
I was also given my first assignments, to write this blog, and brainstorm 10 story pitches. Not bad for my first week!
The atmosphere in the office seemed somewhat quieter than I’d been expecting. It wasn’t the loud and chaotic newsroom I’d seen in the movies and TV.
However, I was told, that as it is the beginning of the year it was a quiet week and everyone was working on their own individual projects.
But I could see the diligence, passion and enthusiasm among the staff.
Hugo and I first worked on how to write a story, whether it is a lead story, down page, stick or brief.
My first practice with Hugo was to write a brief story and he guided and pinpointed the errors on how to improve on my writing skills.
One thing Hugo explained is how to write clearly and just to keep it simple and easy to read. This is an advice I will keep in mind throughout the journey.
I also worked on a project with Jennifer Bell, a beautiful and intelligent journalist, who gave me so many insights on how to create a story.
One of the hardest tasks facing a reporter is how to start the story. So I have to genuinely thank Jennifer who gave me some great advice on how to write the first sentence.
All in all, I hope to evolve and learn more throughout my training as a journalist.
I am confident the staff in the department will gladly help me to improve.
There is no better feeling than when you help others, and what better way to work hand in hand, guiding and teaching us for a bright future.
malshamsi@thenational.ae
