What was your first job as a journalist?
Writing for Shock Till You Drop News.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes.
How is social media changing news?
I wouldn’t say it’s changing the news but it’s certainly changing the way it reaches people.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
April O'Neil
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Our job is to bring people the facts and let them make up their own mind.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Good question. I can’t think of a good example.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Via email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Wordpress, Microsoft Word, Excel.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
On Twitter? President Obama.
Why did you become a journalist?
I have been fond of writing since I was old enough to hold a pen. Writing feels like an art form to me. I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes. I did senior interviews and sold ads.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I did a set visit for the Evil Dead remake and I had an amazing time. I love the way the write up came out.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Anytime you get feedback about your writing that you don’t like or think is wrong, look for a shred of truth in it and use it to be better.
When's the best time to pitch you?
During the work week
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I get lots of great pitches. Not sure I can identify one as the best.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
No one in particular. But op-ed and listicle pitches that don’t have a strong angle are challenging.
What's your favorite drink?
Non-alcoholic? Probably flavored seltzer. Or Dr. Pepper.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Hanging out with my husband, watching a movie, or listening to music.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
NPR.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That horror movies inspire real-life violence.
