What was your first job as a journalist?
Editor/Journalist for Patch.com
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes! A part of me loves it... However, I am very grateful for how far we have come in the computer world.
How is social media changing news?
Sometimes i feel that it definitely killed the industry... However, I also believe that it creates more transparency with politics.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Carrie Bradshaw! She's more of a columnist- but I still love her. :-)
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To have a lot of grit and wit...
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
It's amazing what a typo can do.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
It feels like I use everything... But I do use Adobe Creative Suite, iMovie, Word, and Canva (when I need to create a graphic).
What's your favorite social network?
I really love Instagram! It allows for photos and video to tell the story without even sharing one word (at least sometimes).
Who do you wish followed you?
Billy Corgan... I just love The Smashing Pumpkins. :-)
Why did you become a journalist?
Because I want to share stories. I also wanted to experience historical moments and be a part of that recording.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yep! Susan E. Wagner High School on Staten Island, NY.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I personally am proud when I am able to write a story that helps to make legislative changes.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
You need to learn how to adapt. Now just with environments, but also when it comes to skills. Technology is always changing.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime is a good time to reach out to me- I always make sure to respond to all requests that I receive.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I think that the best pitch is when there is a hyperlocal hero.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
An email full of stats.... Numbers mean nothing without a story to back it.
What's your favorite drink?
Sangria!
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
At a coffee shop or a diner.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love to read thriller novels... I just read A Woman in the Window and I am very excited about the movie!
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That rock is all about drugs and alcohol. It is really is about the struggle to be successful and to break the mold.
