Looking back on this past summer as a management intern at Morris Communications in Augusta, Ga., it seems unbelievable that less than three years ago I was in South Africa busily researching graduate journalism programs to apply to.

I remember how exhausting it was to go through this process overseas, as my Internet connection was slow and most of the Web sites were confusing. One by one, I went through the 106 accredited journalism and mass communications programs, crossing out schools that did not mirror what I was looking for until I finally decided on the University of South Carolina.

Having based my decision on the program’s solid national reputation, excellent faculty, and professional and theoretical focus, I was confident in my decision. Still, I had no idea that choosing to spend the next two years in the windowless Coliseum would be one of my wisest decisions.

My goal was to become a magazine food writer. With my interest in the culture, history and sustainability of food, I saw this as a form of food activism, a way in which I could enlighten and, more importantly, engage the public with issues I care deeply about.

But as in any process, my career goals have continued developing since I entered the Master of Arts program in summer 2004. I remain interested in the power of the press, but I realized at USC that my love for the printed word does not necessitate a career as a writer. My coursework, in particular my media management, marketing, media law and research courses, further solidified my interest in the larger umbrella of media organizations and cultures today.

The J-School has allowed me many opportunities to advance my academic and professional careers. In addition to editing two newsletters for the South Carolina Consumer Affairs Department, editing The Convergence Newsletter and serving on the board of the school's chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, USC opened the door for me to spend last summer as a Morris intern.

For more than 20 years, the Morris Management Internship Program has welcomed fewer than 10 undergraduate and graduate students to the company’s corporate headquarters in Augusta.

This year, J-School undergraduate student Shawn Rourk and I joined four others from Georgia and Texas Tech for 10 intensive weeks of exploration, education and, above all else, excitement.

Unlike other skill-based internships where hands-on applications and experiences in a concentrated area are the norm, I spent time in almost every department in Morris’ corporate operations and visited company operations in several other cities.

I talked with the presidents and vice presidents of each outlet, asking and answering questions and observing the daily activities of a midsize media company. My mind consistently ached from all the knowledge I was gaining. I relished every second.

In the corporate offices I learned about Morris’ insurance plan and why the company is changing its 401(k). In Jacksonville, Fla., I discussed the threat Craigslist poses to classified ad sales, and in Savannah, Ga., I saw a new breed of gatekeeper in action – a group of female editors holding a budget meeting in the middle of a newsroom outfitted with an interactive screen several feet square.

I realized the bottom line is not met just by cutting expenses. It is about investing in employees and creating a culture where creative energy and excellence is fostered.

I saw this firsthand in St. Augustine, Fla., during a week of focus training. I sat side by side with the publisher and the editorial, advertising and production departments mapping the St. Augustine Record’s goals and brainstorming how those could be met. There, as well as at other Morris holdings, I and my other management intern colleagues were part of the action.

Dean Charles Bierbauer once said in a conversation that one of the program's goals is to broaden students’ awareness while focusing on an interest. The journalism and mass communication program has done that for me.

By sharing the principles of journalism in the classroom and opening doors to opportunity such as the Morris program, USC has propelled me to where I feel confident about the future. While I cannot say exactly where I will be after graduation, I know I will be prepared.