Think of a person from this school who you think is worthy of having a feature story written about them. This could be a teacher, a student, an administrator, or even a support staff, and the subject could be about anything: a passion, a sport, a position or job, or anything that makes that person unique. Interview that person with these two goals in mind
Make the reader feel like they know the person you’re profiling.
Make the reader feel like they’re there with the person you’re profiling.
The first goal is going to be achieved through your sharing of details about the person’s life–background information that your reader would like to know about your subject. You’ll have to do research on your subject, most of which will come from a fairly long conversation with that person about their life. You’ll need to take notes so you can get the details correct when you go to write your story.
Letting your reader sit down with your subject The second goal is something you’ll achieve through quotes. You’ll want to record and write down exact words your subject says during your interview. Then you’ll pick precise words to share in your article so your reader feels like they’re talking with your subject. Quotes should dominate the text of a good profile article.
The Interview
Before tackling this assignment, read the chapter called “The Interview” by William Zinsser’s On Writing Well. His tips and suggestions are essential.
Go into your interview with at least 8 open ended questions prepared + as many closed or information questions as you think you need. Anything less indicates you’re not ready to conduct the interview.