What was your first job as a journalist?
After graduating from Illinois State University, my first job as a journalist was being a Woman's Show Host at WCIA 3 News in Champaign, IL.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I used to type out news stories on a typewriter as a kid, I guess that was early practice.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is news. Without it, we would not get alerted to things as quickly as we do.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Lois Lane, because even though the perception of her character changed, she is always portrayed as determined.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means reporting news completely unbiased and providing accurate and current information to the general public.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
April 4th is National Hug a Newsperson Day.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email is the best and most efficient way to book a segment or story with me. Email me: acorradetti@wcia.com
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Social News Desk, iNews, YouTube, Latakoo, CBS Newspath, CNN Newsource, Twitter, Facebook, Media Centra, Instagram, & Lakana.
What's your favorite social network?
It depends based on what content I am posting. Right now, I think Twitter is my favorite. However, Instagram is slowly taking over.
Who do you wish followed you?
I wish that major journalists such as Diane Sawyer, Tucker Carlson and Bob Woodward followed me.
Why did you become a journalist?
I've always had a passion for storytelling and for people. Being a journalist allows me to live out those passions.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I was the Entertainment Editor of my high school newspaper--The Winged Messenger'.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Every single one of my stories.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Find something you're passionate about, and report about it. Never allow reporting bias, and always stand up for what's right.
When's the best time to pitch you?
The best time to pitch me is after the morning show at 10AM CT.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I don't think I can pick just one, everyone's stories are just as important as the next person.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Something that didn't have local news value.
What's your favorite drink?
I'd say nothing quenches my thirst quite like a good pun.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Talking to people in the community & finding out what interests them. I can also be found a lot in Chicago enjoying my hometown.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I enjoy The Chicago Tribune in my free time. I used to work for Tribune, and know how much work goes into those newspapers.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The Morning Show is both a balance of hard and soft news.
