What was your first job as a journalist?
Volunteering as a reporter/anchor for my university broadcast group.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Once!
How is social media changing news?
More people than ever use social media for news. It's where public figures post press releases and updates. Also, it allows for short stories
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
My favorite fictional journalist is William Miller, kid music journalist from "Almost Famous".
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Integrity, honesty, justice, and passion. Journalists must think ethically and in the public's interest when covering any story.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Hashtag DumpTrump.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to come up with ideas on my own, but like detailed pitches. It's helpful to know preferred angles or details to cover in a story.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Wordpress, Google docs, Social Media sites, Adobe Suite, contacts, and a stable internet connection.
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram
Who do you wish followed you?
I would love it if popular artists followed me. As a creative by word, I wish I could talk to more musicians/artists who craft differently.
Why did you become a journalist?
I have always been fascinated by journalists as the fourth estate. Also, I love music and am always curious about the musical process.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I am most proud of covering stories relating to musicians. I truly love getting to sit down and talk with musicians about their journey.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Swing for the fences and don't let criticism weigh you down. Like Kelly Clarkson says, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger".
When's the best time to pitch you?
Any time! Preferebly in the A.M.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever got was a fastball down the middle of the plate. Seriously, the best pitch was breaking news on a triple homicide case.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
No pitch is the worst.
What's your favorite drink?
Old Fashioned
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Hiking, playing guitar, working out, or scoping out potential stories in the field.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I enjoy reading and listening to stories on NPR. Otherwise, I admire the work done by Pitchfork and The Fader.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Music Journalism is largely thought to be paparazzi or clickbait attention seeking articles. I prefer human interest and relatable content.
