MY designation: Television journalist

What's my job: "I started as a TV journalist in 1999, interning with Zee News, Delhi, for about a year. Wanting the feel of the bigger picture, I joined Asian News International, which also does programming for Reuters in India. The channel decided to post me to Goa, after recognising Goa's cultural potential. Being one of the first representatives of the electronic media here, I learnt how to handle my own camera, a small Panasonic AG EZ 1, and had to single-handedly put together feature capsules for the network. We were getting noticed. Two years later, I joined the India Today group as a reporter for Goa and parts of Sindhudurg and north Karnataka.

On the field: There were teething problems, like getting people to talk on camera. It wasn't easy initially. But it was a learning experience. Fortunately, I haven't faced too many professional lows and the on-the-field highs are euphoric. People are generally co-operative towards women reporters in Goa (though I can't say the same for the rest of the country), since most times I end up handling shoots alone, even on unfamiliar territory. Covering an accident in Maharashtra for example can be quite a challenge for a single reporter, travelling through rough, almost barren terrain or hauling equipment up slippery hills. But it makes for exciting coverage and the mix of people you meet on your way is enriching.

I know this is the field for me: Whenever I meet a tight deadline, even before any other channel can smell the story. It's like walking a tightrope, because one tiny mistake can spell disaster. Verification of facts and sources hence is very crucial for credibility. The thrill of seeing my stories on screen is addictive.

My inspiration: Goa! I think the national media is finally beginning to see Goa in a different light, rather than simply the beaches and churches. This is encouraging for the electronic media fraternity, especially since we all realise that cyber journalism is the fastest means of getting news to the people. The sky's the limit if you enjoy what you do.

— Shami Prabhu spoke to Ethel Da Costa