Press Release
Aleksandra Fedorova Thanks the Paul Klebnikov Fund for Journalism Fellowship
February 27, 2008
Theoretical skills, as such, are important, but cannot replace practical experience. The internship at the Moscow bureau of The New York Times has been the most worthwhile activity in my four years at the Journalism department.
This was my first experience working as a researcher for an American newspaper. I was worried that my language skills and knowledge would not be sufficient. Though it took me a couple of weeks to get over the culture shock, I spent the entire first term concentrating on my work.
At the bureau, I learned much about journalism from writing the daily press review and conducting journalistic research. Each task was enjoyable and engrossing, and I overcame the difficulties to gain invaluable experience.
I did not expect to become a member of such a cohesive professional team. My first task was to find the contact information for the relatives of victims of the Moscow serial killer, Aleksandr Pichushkin. Chris Chivers, the bureau chief, was writing a story on this and wanted me to locate the murderer's mother for an interview. It was very difficult because police had forbidden victims' relatives from speaking to the press. After two days I found Mr. Pichushkin's mother and called her on the phone. I spent nearly a half an hour trying to convince her to give an interview.
Unfortunately, she did not accept our request, but I hope her contact information will be of use to the bureau's journalists in the future. Though Chris's article was published without my contribution, he said I did a good job. I enjoyed the praise.
I did not let the grass grow under my feet and continued learning every day. After some time, I learned some very interesting and important details about working for a Western paper. I learned, for instance, that checking small details and the accuracy of quotes is an important part of writing an article.
I wrote two briefs and contributed to some feature stories by the bureau's journalists. I also participated in web projects for The New York Times and worked as an assistant photographer. Such wide-ranging experiences-like covering press conferences with the Russian Energy Minister and the heads of oil companies-have given me a great opportunity for self-advancement in this field.
My personal goal before I began working for the bureau team was to achieve a great understanding of Western journalism. Now I want all of Russian journalism to reach these high ethical standards.
This internship was a unique experience for me. It changed my views not only on the profession of journalism, but also on my life. If at the start of your career you do not believe that you will be able to make any breakthroughs in your profession, there is no point in working. A great future is reserved only for those who maintain high standards and work as hard as possible.
I am thankful to you and to Paul Klebnikov Fund for this brilliant opportunity to work and feel myself a member of The New York Times.
Thank you again,
Sasha
Aleksandra Fedorova
The New York Times
Moscow Bureau
