A student's convention viewpoint

WASHINGTON - Day one: Actually, it's my second day in Washington D.C. The flight arrived mid-day Wednesday, which gave us a chance to visit the U.S. Capitol.

The convention so far has been outstanding. I am currently standing in the expo room at the Internet cafe, gazing lustily at the large-screen Macs they've set up for us to use.

I just watched Sen. John Cornyn speak about FOIA and a federal shield law, and past SPJ President David Carlson (with a follow-up from Campus Rep John Patrick) asked a very significant question: Will student journalists recieve protection under the senator's legislation?

This is just one of the reasons why I needed to come to the convention. Although I'm still a student and SPJ is primarily an organization geared toward working journos, there are many specific avenues for me to learn. All of the expo boothiers and session guests have been receptive to my questions - most that specifically relate to my current status as a student.

More tomorrow.

Dale Denwalt II