What was your first job as a journalist?
Staff photographer for a group of community papers just north of Dallas in DFW.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Back in high school, I was struggling in an AP class. For the novelty, I took a typewriter to take my notes on in class. Mixed reactions.
How is social media changing news?
It adds another level or immediacy to delivering the news, as well as transparency on our parts as journalists. Both good and bad.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To dig deep into the lives and ideas of those around us, those directly and indirectly affecting us. Seek out everyone's truth.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Any which way and any form. I welcome all types of stories and opportunities over email, phone, text.
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram
Why did you become a journalist?
The excitement of going to new places, trying new things, telling stories of those I never would have known and deserve to be told drew me.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked for Plano Senior High School's newspaper as a news writer, photographer.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
The money may not be there, you may owe a few past months' phone bills, rent was due a week ago, but the work you do demands it, worth it.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Photograph this event with the local chamber, but make it look like people actually showed up.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Out in the field or on assignment somewhere, anywhere.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Before its painful death, Lucky Peach was my favorite publication to read.
