As Jim suggests, it never hurts to be able to plead your case convincingly in person, and that's why INBA conventions are a great place to be.
Speaking with news directors, though, I'd say it helps if you can bring a demo tape/DVD/CD and resume with you that stresses any background that you may already have, be it a previous internship, collegiate or high school media, or anything else that can show your abilities off.
So, register for the convention, be ready to ask questions, and bring materials that are designed to put yourself at the top of those ND's lists. Make sure your demo has your best possible examples up front because news directors are by definition busy people and don't have hours to devote to watching or listening.
