Ever since I was young, I found myself documenting the world around me through storytelling, videography, and photography. My interest and fascination only grew stronger as I got older. I enrolled in a broadcast journalism class in high school where I learned how to edit and film videos, interview skills, write scripts, produce a daily news show, and anchor. It was through this experience I realized my love and passion for journalism. I knew it was the career path for me.
One of the main reasons I came to James Madison University was to join Breeze TV, a student-run broadcast organization. I joined the organization as a freshman and became a general reporter. My passion and commitment to telling impactful stories continue to grow stronger as I have gotten to know the Harrisonburg and JMU communities. I was accepted into the School of Media Arts and Design as a freshman with a concentration in journalism. I have enjoyed every moment of the program ever since.
I served as Senior Anchor and Managing Editor at Breeze TV from April 2022-March 2024. Throughout my time at Breeze TV, I have strengthened my journalistic skill set through editing packages, VOs, and VO/SOT/VOs. I have improved greatly by building camera and editing skills, getting to know my community, creating authentic connections with my interviewees and on-camera presence.
I became a mentor for newer members of the organization through helping them tell stories that matter. One of these stories was Gitchell’s Photography, a 114-year-old photography business in downtown Harrisonburg. My mentees and I made a great connection with my interviewee through genuine conversation. She told me that the published story made her cry. This made me realize how much of an impact local journalism can have on a community.