Journalism is turning away from the traditional print, broadcast and radio writing. Convergence is the new phrase on everyone's lips. Rather than being a journalist, I consider myself a "Wordsmith" who artfully paints a story whatever medium or section appears in. I am cross-trained through print, broadcast, magazine, Internet and public relations writing as a "Wordsmith."
Wordsmithing
Journalism Experience
Student Media Experience
Index Newspaper
At Truman's student produced paper, the Index, I work as a reporter and copy editor writing one to two stories weekly. Through copy editing, I thoughtfully read stories to find AP errors and edit understandability.
Detours Travel Magazine
Detours is the student produced travel magazine for which I am a writer and designer. I travel throughout Missouri, Iowa and Illinois writing about travel destinations. Then I design four to six page spreads.
News36 TV Station
Prepared packages for Truman’s student produced weekly news show.Duties include pitching story ideas, interviews, field shooting, writing a script and editing b-roll. I directed and produced a five-minute television show called Leader By eXample in Truman’s state-of-the-art studio.
Academic Experience
Journalism Experience
As part of Truman’s comprehensive Election Day coverage, I served as the photographer for the team covering events from the state capital Jefferson City, as well as from Columbia, Missouri, in which we attended press conferences and parties for local candidates along with interviewing voters at the polls.Public Relations Experience
Projekt Oskar, a student-led initiative to bring a Russian Pop Superstar to Kirksville April 17, 2009, was a project that culminated with a press conference, colloquium and concert. I was responsible for coordinating backup dancers for the concert show by organizing practices, choreography and acting as a liaison between the dancers and The Oskar.
Recently I organized a fundraiser with a partner to help the local Humane Society. I created a sponsorship package, a flyer about the Humane Society and sign up sheets for volunteers. My partner reserved tables, made signs and budgeted the event.
Work experience
May 2011 - Jul 2012
Lead Support Professional
Chariton Valley Association
I managed a home for two young men with developmental disabilities. My work included daily paperwork, planning activities and events for the individuals, managing and hiring staff, managing finances, planning meetings, and, most importantly, fostering independence for the individuals. The position required me to be organized, creative, and flexible. I was also required to communicate with several businesses, caseworkers, staff, and family members.
Sep 2010 - May 2011
Direct Support Professional
Chariton Valley Association
I support two young men with developmental disabilities. Our goal is to help them live as independently as possible. Tasks include cleaning, daily hygiene for the individuals, paperwork, passing medication, and much more to enhance their daily life.
May 2010 - Sep 2010
Communication Intern
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
I traveled throughout Missouri during the summer of 2010 to the state parks to gather footage, photos, and interviews to update the parks web site. I used iMovie to edit videos, iPhoto to edit photos and Microsoft to write copy. My work can be found at http://www.mostateparks.com/. I worked on Arrow Rock State Historic Site, Scott Joplin House, Harry S. Truman State Park, Battle of Athens State Historic Site, Boone's Lick State Historic Site, Sappington Cemetery, Iliniwek Village, Thousand Hills State Park and Long Branch State Park.
Jan 2009 - May 2010
May 2009 - May 2010
May 2009 - Sep 2009
Writer
Video Marketing USA
I researched and wrote about travel destinations in the 50 states. The position lasted for one summer. The web site is http://www.family-vacations.net/. My writing is located under the destinations tab.
Skills
Technology Experience
Education
Aug 2006 - May 2010
2008 Election Photos
No campaigning within 25 feet tape outside of University of Missouri-Columbia's polling place.
An Obama supporter waves a flag at the watch party for Missouri governor candidate Jay Nixon.
Missouri governor candidate Kenny Hulshof gives his concession speech
A student decorated bike in Columbia, MO.