When entering the work field or even just starting an internship, becoming a Content Writer was something I never had in mind.
I mean, how could it be? I didn't like writing or have any interest or talent in that area. But that mindset began to shift when I reached my fifth semester at Universitas Airlangga.
This story begins with the PKKM internship program for English Language and Literature students at Universitas Airlangga. I wanted to gain real-world work experience. Something that can't be acquired simply by learning in the classroom. So, I decided to apply for the internship program without much thought.
Surprisingly, I got accepted. An internship at Harian Disway? A media owned by a famous figure, Abah Dahlan Iskan. I was excited at first. But then the big question hit me: I don't have writing skills!
Becoming a Sports Writer
Initially, I was interested in joining the Graphic Design division, since I often helped create posters and promoted my family’s business.
But that changed when I saw many sports articles were trending on Harian Disway’s website. I’ve always enjoyed following and updating international sports news, especially football.
Watching football matches late at night has become part of my routine. This opportunity led me to apply as a Content Writer for the sports section.
Our internship lasted nearly five months, or four months, and twenty days to be exact. It began on August 1st, 2024. And ended on December 20th.
In the first week, we underwent onboarding, training, and briefings with mentors of each division. After about a week, we finally got hands-on experience in the field.
Relying on my strength of staying up-to-date with football news, I confidently submitted my first article for publication.
But the result was not what I expected. My writing was deemed messy and needed a complete overhaul!
For those writing their thesis, it felt like a total revision. It was like being on MasterChef Indonesia and having Chef Juna spit my dish out with that expression on his face. How did it feel? Yes, it did hurt so much.
Honestly, it shook my confidence and pride a little. The writing standards at Harian Disway were incredibly high. Writing a good article involves a lot of creativity and needs a complex process.
Photo of the writer with Persebaya Surabaya coach, Paul Munster--
A well-written piece can captivate readers, pulling them into the story. Every element from the title to the lead paragraph and even the closing line (punchline) had to be perfect.