What was your first job as a journalist?
I worked as a freelance style columnist for the Salinas Californian. I interviewed locals on their personal style and profiled boutiques.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes! When I volunteered at a Salinas public library at 14 years old, I used a typewriter to write memos and letters for patrons.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is requiring journalists to be more aware, immediate and present. Community is quick and accountability is swift.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Josie Geller from Never Been Kissed — not because she's an example of what to do, but because she's a perfect example of what NOT to do.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being where others can't be and telling them what happened — and when something doesn't make sense, finding out why.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
With the 2016 election in the works for who knows how long, there are too many to count.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Send me an email or tweet with your proposal, and if I like the idea I'll gladly call you on the phone.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Recording: Canon Vixia HF R600, Blue Yeti mic, iPhone 6S (for on the go!). Editing: MacBook Pro and Final Cut Pro X.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter, because it allows me to filter through multiple perspectives and links me to interesting content I otherwise might not find.
Who do you wish followed you?
Anyone who could get me free pizza.
Why did you become a journalist?
It's not just about the thrill of the chase (though that can be fun), but about giving people a chance to share their lives with the worId.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I homeschooled, but I made my own student newspaper with my sisters. I'm not sure if that counts.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I spent a day doing Live Action Role Play, or LARP, in the woods. 95 degrees and muggy, it was so much fun!
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Work for the student newspaper, because jobs often won't accept homework as work samples. Also, get an internship.
