Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. I actually own a typewriter given to me by my mother. Though data journalism requires technology, I'm a huge history nerd.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Python, JavaScript, D3, jQuery, ArcGIS, Excel, Access, SQL, Tableau and Adobe Illustrator
Why did you become a journalist?
I like the idea of having a different day every day. It's also important. It's our job to educate others on what's happening in the world.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, so I got to college and was terrified to start writing for the student newspaper. But I jumped in and worked hard to get where I wanted.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Email everyone. There's always 5 mins for coffee. Keep in touch. Get quality clips. Pitch stories. Critique makes you better. Apply all over.
What's your favorite drink?
Hot coffee. I hate iced coffee.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I hate a few for data journalism. I really admire ProPublica's work. Also LA Times, Washington Post and NY Times.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That math and English are incompatible. I grew up told a person was good at one, never both. But there are data-driven stories to be told.
