What was your first job as a journalist?
My first commission was for Femedic
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, but not for work, more for the sound of the keys clacking.
How is social media changing news?
Social media can spread news quickly, but it can also spread misinformation, so it's a double edged sword regarding its impact.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I can't say I have one.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
For me, journalism is about lifting the voices of underrepresented people.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Probably sounds bad for a journo, but I don't focus too heavily on hashtags.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
N/A
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I just Google Docs to write in, then use the internet, interviewees, and data to complete my research.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter, even though it's crumbling right now.
Who do you wish followed you?
No one in particular; it's not about the name, but rather if we're likeminded.
Why did you become a journalist?
I love writing, but I wanted to write about topics that are important to me; journalism allows me to do that.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, I didn't – our school didn't even have a newspaper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
My article for The Guardian, about how video gaming can help with grief, really allowed me to deep dive into a topic very personal to me.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Rejection is a big part of this job, and while it can be disheartening, don't let it talk you into giving up.
When's the best time to pitch you?
I don't have a preferred time, I only ask that people make sure the pitch is relevant to my expertise.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
N/A
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
N/A
What's your favorite drink?
Tea
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Tending to my 135 indoor plants.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
My favourite varies depending on my mood.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
People assume writing personal essays is easy, but I find it to be the hardest beat of them all.
