Jessica started the Women in Sports Media student group.
Why did you decide to become a journalism major?
I wanted to share stories. I’ve always enjoyed informing others about what’s happening and talking about current events. I also like to make people smile and I believe journalism has the power to bring people together.
What has been your favorite part of your experience at the Hubbard School?
My favorite experience has been the mentorship program. My mentor has given me advice, critiqued my work, connected me with other sports reporters in the Twin Cities and answers all my questions. My mentor cares about my career, development as a person and genuinely wants me to succeed. It’s a great program. I still talk to my mentor and ask for advice!
Which professor has had the biggest impact on you?
A couple professors have made an impact on me. Gayle Golden pushed me to be a better writer and challenged me to go outside my comfort zone. She also offered me guidance when it came to forming Women in Sports Media. Scott Libin has taught me how to tell a good story and has provided feedback to help my writing, shooting, editing, and overall story structure.
Are you pursuing any minors, internships, or fields of interest outside your major? If so, how do you think these enhance your study of Journalism?
I’m a communications minor. I’ve interned at KARE 11, Twin Cities Live, and North Metro TV. I was able to get hands-on experience shooting video, editing, writing scripts, interviewing, and creating my own stories. I’m also a production assistant at Gopher Digital Productions and work as a sideline reporter for Big Ten Network StudentU. Both of these positions have allowed me to learn multiple broadcast roles and gain experience in a field I hope to work in one day.
Why did you start the Women in Sports Media club?
I started Women in Sports Media because there wasn’t a student group like ours on campus. As a woman, pursuing a career in sports media can be difficult to navigate especially when the industry is predominately male. I wanted to create a safe space for conversation to talk about any concerns and issues that women face. I also want to provide networking opportunities with professionals in the community and with each other. My goal is for women to feel more confident about themselves, their work and to know they can have a future working in sports media.
What is your dream job?
My dream job is be a sideline reporter for a professional sports team. I would eventually love to have my own segments at a network like ESPN, where I conduct sit-down interviews, share stories from athletes and coaches, and connect underprivileged youth to their local professional sports teams.
What advice do you have for future Hubbard School students?
Take advantage of every opportunity and your surroundings. Our school is located in one of the top news markets in the country. There are so many inspiring and talented journalists who are more than willing to help, you just have to reach out. If you’re not sure about something, try it anyway. I decided to apply to the mentorship program as a junior and it was one of the best decisions I made. The mentorship program helped me grow in so many ways, so I encourage all juniors and seniors to apply!
