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Ashley Neckel on Muck Rack

Ashley Neckel

(She/Her)
Los Angeles
As seen in: The Poly Post
Covers:  News, arts and entertainment, politics, sports, profiles, opinion

Interview

What was your first job as a journalist?

I did yearbook in high school and I loved writing and interviewing; that’s how I chose my college major.

Have you ever used a typewriter?

I have not, but they’re pretty cool.

How is social media changing news?

A lot more younger people are involved, and with a lot more perspective. We’re seeing live-action footage to a degree we’ve never seen before

Who's your favorite fictional journalist?

Kermit the frog! He was a journalist back in the 80’s.

What does it mean to be a journalist?

Being a journalist means calling for accountability and having a duty to truthfully inform the public.

What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?

#bonghits4jesus was most definitely an attention grabber.

How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?

I’m fine with anything. Maybe a bit less inclined to get a phone call, but if it’s not after hours then that’s fine too.

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

microsoft word, adobe cloud

What's your favorite social network?

Twitter

Who do you wish followed you?

Probably Chris Cuomo.

Why did you become a journalist?

I like being informed and I like keeping others informed. Plus I love writing.

Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?

I did yearbook. Lots of photos and interviews and sitting in front of a computer.

What story are you most proud of writing or working on?

I’m most proud of my story “CPP prepares for possible online summer term”

What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?

Reach out! Contact your favorite writers and ask for advice.

What's the worst pitch you ever got?

I haven’t received a pitch in that way. I either pitch my own to my editor or choose from a list the editors create every week.

What's your favorite drink?

My morning coffee.

When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?

On the run! walking the dog, getting groceries, running errands. If I’m home I’m probably cooking.

Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?

Chicago Tribune

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