What was your first job as a journalist?
I was an unpaid intern, then paid freelancer for my hometown newspaper: The Goldendale Sentinel. I was later news editor there in 2016.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
As a child I was fascinated with anything writing-related, so I did have a typewriter for a time.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is adding a way we make news accessible. I don't believe print is dead; I believe we're only expanding how people access news.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To be a good journalist one must broaden their perspective to represent the community they write for but also always keep focus on the truth
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel as well as a few proprietary programs created by Pamplin Media Group. I also manage our social media.
Why did you become a journalist?
I have a passion for informing and entertaining communities on topics that impact them while amplifying voices that often go unheard.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked for my high school newspaper as a photo editor and reporter, though I attribute most of my early experience to my hometown paper.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Keep your areas of study broad. A basic education in journalism is useful, but knowing how to write well is essential.
What's your favorite drink?
4Hearts Kombucha's Lavendula kombucha, made locally (to me) in Boring, Oregon.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
If I'm not typing or emailing, I'm usually conducting in-person interviews. I've interviewed while walking a 5K, on a dogsled and more.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I don't have a favorite. I'm a connoisseur of a variety of media from The New York Times, to Vanity Fair to Portland's own Bitch Media.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
People most commonly just don't know that The Sandy Post only as one reporter covering three communities and expects more.
