The Society of Professional Journalists hosted the annual conference in New Orleans these past few days. It was a meeting of journalists of old, young, print, broadcast and online.
No one (who could pay the registration fee) was turned away. Students met and mingled with seasoned journalists; seasoned reporters learned new ideas from students.
The sessions were split up in near-hour increments.
Sunday was the first “super session.” Soledad O’Brien hosted with John Cochran. John, a seasoned ABC reporter, interviewed Soledad in front of everyone. It didn’t seem like a real interview as much as a forced conversation between two folks who didn’t really know each other.
The following night didn’t have any sessions other than the reception. Cocktails were served, and folks really mingled. After that, I left and walked up Bourbon Street with my sister. The next day (Monday for those keeping track) I went to my first “real” session: “Writing that works online.” Victoria Lim, a former WFLA reporter presented; she worked at WFLA with Rod Carter. Carter taught at the NABJ short course at FAMU.
Being in a convention center (the Sheraton on Canal Street) with other people who love journalism like I do really made me feel connected. I didn’t expect to be so well received.
Today’s sessions were also fantastic. It really was a great opportunity to meet and network with people from all over the country.

It’s hard to believe the New Orleans weekend is already here.
We’re on Interstate 10 just west of Mobile. We left about an hour ago. This little blue Volkswagen Jetta is running smoothly; trucking along I-10.
We’re staying at the JW Marriott on Canal Street. Canal Street is apparently the heart of New Orleans. We’re staying (literally) right next door from the hotel that is hosting the conference.
Oh yeah… Thats why I’m headed to NOLA It’s not a pleasure trip; well, it’s not intended to be. The Society of Professional Journalist and the RTDNA (Radio and Television Digital News Association) are co-hosting the 2011 Excellence in Journalism convention.
This could be the single most important thing I do this year. SPJ is THE organization for journalists, according to one of my professors from last semester. I can’t believe I’m going to a professional convention. Soledad O’Brien is hosting the opening “super session” tonight. This weekend will be the second time I have met her. Now I can even name-drop her friend Bina, whom I met while covering the Rick Scott inauguration. She works for CNN and CNN Español in Miami.
This convention could be my “big break.” We’ll see though; I don’t want to get my hopes too high and fall hard. If anything, this is my weekend away from school and away from all the stress that comes with anchoring, editing and managing three different media on campus.
Actually, I just texted Bina. She asked me to send Soledad her regards and tell her Bina is glad her knee is better.
I cannot believe I’m going to this convention. I really could not be happier with my life right now.
More updates to come from the convention.