Q: What drew you to Willamette? 

I was drawn to Willamette through its civic engagement opportunities at local, regional, and statewide scales. At the admitted students event I attended I learned about the possibility to get involved with the local health department via a research project within the public health department. The opportunities for engagement have only grown during my time at Willamette, including the chance to take part in this internship.

Q: What drew you to journalism?

There was a journalism program at my high school which first introduced me to newswriting; I wrote for both their news site and newsmagazine. Upon arriving at Willamette, I joined The Collegian, which expanded my knowledge and passion for journalism, both as a writer, and then as an editor. My interests in journalism as a whole stem from a place of curiosity. Through different stories, I have been able to cultivate expertise in a multitude of niche areas that I otherwise would not have been aware of. As a journalist, I have the privilege to talk to people otherwise largely unreachable to a wider audience, and the subsequent work that is published can allow for further conversations, and even become a catalyst for change. 

Q: Why did you apply for the AAJA Portland-Peter Wong Political Reporting Internship?

It was an incredible opportunity to expand my journalism skills on a scale outside of being a student journalist. Additionally, as someone that is interested in government, the proximity to Willamette, and receiving the experience to get involved with the happenings of the state legislature is incredibly important to me. Like with most things, I feel that journalism is a great platform for learning, and as a journalist, I feel that the best way for me to learn about what’s happening at the state legislature is to be able to report on it.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish during this internship?

I hope to grow my skills as a journalist regarding both speed of reporting and with the ability to cover a diverse range of topics. Even in the first few weeks my reporting has grown. Additionally, I have been incredibly happy to see my stories published and receiving feedback about my coverage.

Q: What do you hope to take away from this internship?

I hope the skills that I learn here can also help as I continue in a student journalist role. With one more year at Willamette, I want to continue being a part of my student newspaper, and I predict that the skills I have acquired and honed through this internship will help me become a better writer, and a better editor in general. Additionally, as I look towards my future career — whether that be a role in journalism or in government — the abilities and habits I have gained regarding communicating complex legislative policies, improvements in storytelling, and the highlighting of marginalized voices are all invaluable tools I’ve been able to hone; which I expect will transfer well to what my future work may entail.