Reporter Interaction

My attempt to form a positive relationship with a "Retriever Weekly" journalist is still underway. I looked at all the staff members and viewed their facebook profiles if possible. Many of the writers had privacy settings that limited the viewing of personal information. I was not able to touch base with anybody at the 214 University Center address this week. My daytime schedule is very filled between class and softball practice. When I went by later at night nobody was there. I then resorted to looking at facebook profiles to get AIM screen names. Two members offered this information, Magan Zlock (production) and Andrea Thomson (news). I sent both writers instant messages and Andrea responded. She was hesitant to talk to me because she did not recognize my screen name. I then explained that I was contacting her for academic purposes and although I blew my cover, I think we had a positive conversation. I know that an online conversation eliminates some of the principles in HTWFIP, but I tried to make up for these losses wherever possible. My initial message read "Hi Andrea :-)". This was my attempt to smile. We had a very in depth conversation and I sent her my UMBC softball biography so she could get to know a little about me. My picture was also included so that we will recognize each other on campus. Even if we are not yet friends, I think I have laid a good foundation for a positive personal interaction.