Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school? 

I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and earned my BA in journalism and political science from the University of Denver. After graduating, I taught high school Spanish in Lynn, Massachusetts, during the pandemic before returning to Denver two years later.

Before enrolling in graduate school, I worked as an arts and culture reporter for Denverite, a digital publication owned and operated by Colorado Public Radio. There, I reported and wrote daily digital stories and occasionally produced radio segments for CPR.

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg? 

I first learned about Annenberg in high school and kept it in the back of my mind for years. I chose to pursue my graduate studies here because I’m committed to a long career in journalism, and I knew this program would help elevate my work to the next level.

USC Annenberg’s location in Los Angeles—a global city where national and international stories often intersect—was also a major draw. The city’s neighborhoods are rich in history and home to people from diverse backgrounds with important stories to tell. But what truly sets Annenberg apart is its faculty and students, who come together to create an unparalleled learning environment for ambitious journalists.

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program? 

Since starting at USC Annenberg, I’ve most enjoyed the wealth of opportunities available. I’ve gained valuable experience in newsroom leadership as an Executive Radio Producer for Annenberg Radio News and as an Assistant Editor for LA School Report. I’ve also had the chance to work shifts on the TV broadcast side, further expanding my skill set.

Additionally, one of the most rewarding experiences has been participating in USC’s open-source investigative reporting program. Through it, I’ve learned to use satellite imagery, social media networks, and online databases to enhance my investigative reporting. Courses in coding, data journalism, and business and economics reporting have also given me fresh perspectives and new problem-solving skills to apply to my own stories.