My word for the day is frazzled

I always like to try to broaden my vocabulary and today I was feeling overwhelmed. So I decided to look up synonyms for this wonderful state I was in, and “tada” there it was.

Frazzled: noun, pronounced fraz-uh ld
1. the state of being frazzled or worn-out.
2. to become exhausted physically or emotionally.

This was my way of bringing a little humor to the stressful state I have been in.

School has officially begun, along with the rest of my life, and it seems as if I’m just not ready for it. It’s about that time in the semester when I have to start turning in papers, taking exams/quizzes, and anything else you could dream up.

As I was finishing up the ‘Happenings’ section for Indianapolis Woman, I realized writing upcoming events that included: who, what, when, where, why and how, was somewhat monotonous and time consuming. Although, to be clear, I am in no way complaining. I am appreciative of every opportunity that is given to me.

Recently, I’ve been working on the ‘Enhancing You’ section for the March issue. I am enjoying it; it is a lot more exciting than other things I am used to writing about. I get to talk about botox, liposuction, hair replacement, facelifts, basically all types of body contouring. I get to interview with many doctors or surgeons with an abundance of information to offer.

At first, I was somewhat uncomfortable with doing interviews over the phone, but now after doing more than enough, it is almost second nature. I am starting to learn what works, what doesn’t, the easiest way to obtain information and much more.

Recently, the hardest thing for me to has been how to write my articles as if I was speaking (i.e adapting a conversational tone). I have learned it is a much better way for the reader to connect with what they are reading. Shari, the editor-in-chief, explained it to me like this, “write as if you are talking to your best friend.” After that it made much more sense, and I feel like I am getting better.

Overall although the last week indeed has had me frazzled, not to get confused with defeated, I have learned a lot and gained many experiences I wouldn’t have had without this opportunity.

I am more than excited to see how much my writing will transform by the end of my internship. One of my favorite quotes, that keeps me going, from good ole’ Abe Lincoln, “Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing.” When I say this to myself repeatedly, I always find a way to push forward.

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by Crystal Abrell

I’ve Only Just Begun, So far, so good for new IW intern

Where do I even begin?

The first day I went into the office, I was not sure what to expect.

When I first got there, I sat in on a staff meeting with the editorial and production staff. It was somewhat intimidating at first, especially when the president/CEO and publisher, Mary Weiss, sat right next to me in the meeting and later asked me about my schooling and myself.

I was surprised at how down-to-earth and nice everyone was. Being the new intern and very low on the totem pole, I didn’t really expect that, but it was definitely a relief.

Editor-in-Chief Shari Finnell was very helpful. She sat down with me and helped me with my edits, which was very cool. I felt in a way I learned more with her in an hour than I had all throughout my newspaper job at my college. It is easy to see why she is such a good writer.

After I finished all of my first assignments, to be quite frank, I was surprised with how well everything turned out. I was worried they were terrible, but after Shari helped me figure out how to write my profiles, I felt pleased and reassured.

After my first day, I felt special to have a desk, e-mail, login name and password. I know it sounds kind nerdy, but it felt good to get addressed as Miss Abrell during an interview and to dress up like a big girl. It made me realize I was becoming an adult, and it was an exciting feeling.

Realizing how long my Tuesdays were going to be was somewhat hard for me. Going into the office at 10 (even though I shouldn’t complain with a late morning), then to night class, dance practice and getting home at 11 p.m. will be one of the things to which it will be hardest for me to adjust.

I’ll find a way to manage. When I’m busy, I’m more successful –– or at least I stay away from the peer pressures that come with the “college life.”

Although I worked all weekend and am not really ready for the new week to begin, I’m excited to see what the week brings –– whether it’s more assignments like before or something new and fun.

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by Crystal Abrell