Student Blog

3min read

Introduction:

Internships serve as an invaluable bridge between academic learning and real-world experience. For APU students with dreams of pursuing careers in media and broadcasting, opportunities to intern at a Japanese cable TV company offer an immersive and enlightening experience. Here, we delve into our journey in J:COM Oita Cable Telecom Company!

Some companies and organizations have exchanged memorandums of understanding with APU and offer our students internship placements through these agreements. Students who wish to take part in this program can apply through the university: Contract-type Internships.

1. Observe the Real Workflow:

The internship experience begins with a firsthand observation of the authentic workflow within the cable TV company. The joined effort of multiple departments: sales, marketing, etc., helped interesting, meaningful programs from many producers reach their valued audience, via the platform that is cable TV. Interns also witness the intricacies of content creation, production processes, and the collaborative efforts that bring original television programs to life. This phase of observation serves as a foundation, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's inner workings.

Inside the studio

Field work outside the company

2. Participate in Social Welfare Projects:

Us interns doing farming experience on our first day

Beyond the daily operations, interns are often encouraged to engage in social contribution projects that are a part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy. This not only allows students to break the ice but also fosters a sense of responsibility and community engagement. At Oita Cable TV, they have an agricultural project which regularly donates to children's cafeterias and needy households in the prefecture through food banks and other means. From such simple but physically demanding work like farming, interns learn about how the company strives to benefit its local community in many different aspects, discovering the broader impact of their work in community development and security.

3. Personal Training:

The internship journey can take a personalized turn with focused training sessions for aspiring students. For students like M., an aspiring announcer, this involves honing specific skills such as effective communication, and mastering the art of speech with guidance from the experienced announcer in the studio. In front of the cameras, she learned nuances of tone, modulation, and the importance of conveying information succinctly and engagingly.

We practiced our scripts and we were featured in a short program!

4. Build Work Contacts:

One of the most valuable aspects of the internship is the opportunity to build a network within the industry. Interns connect with experienced professionals, creating relationships that extend beyond the internship period. Building work contacts not only opens doors for potential future collaborations but also provides insights into the diverse career paths within the cable TV industry.

Final Thoughts:

As we students immerse ourselves in the multifaceted world of television broadcasting, we not only broaden our general understanding of the field but also develop a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts and creativity essential for success in the industry. One of the most significant lessons we embraced was the value of adaptability and versatility in the media industry. We discovered the importance of being adept in multiple areas, as it not only enhances one's skills but also opens up more opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Interning at a local cable TV company offers university students an unparalleled experience to comprehend the complexities and nuances of the broadcasting industry. For passionate individuals, these internships serve as a catalyst for nurturing dreams and gaining practical knowledge that transcends the confines of classroom education.

VU Thanh Thao

After 2 years of studying online, I'm trying to figure out how to make the best of my undergraduate life at APU. My questions might be your questions, but my answers are your answers for sure! Live, laugh, last-minute-draft-is-the-best-draft (It's not).