Broadcast Journalism
I joined broadcast to expand my skillset. I never could have expected the sheer amount I have learned and been challenged.
While yearbook and broadcast are similar in many ways, their differences are huge. I had to learn how to use new equipment and programs and get used to being in front of the camera, too.
Sports and News Stories
2025-2026 | Final Cut Pro
Code Blue Steps Onto Campus
Last year, Code Blue started performing at pep rallies and basketball games. It was a group two girls had been developing since their time at the junior high. I wanted to cover the start of their growth, as despite their short time of existing, they had very dedicated members and fans.
Their coach, Karla Jones, was enthusiastic in helping me pick members to interview. After broadcast adviser Michael Westbrook shared the story with her, she sent him the screenshotted email. Then, she came and found me in person and gave me a big hug and thanks.
Yearbook Weathers the Storm
Who better to create a story on yearbook than an editor-in-chief? I did this story as an additional broadcast assignment to expand beyond just sports stories.
I worked very hard on this to showcase the work ethic and vibe of the yearbook staff.
Diving Into New Waters
While proofing a yearbook spread, I read a caption about a swimmer who was a foreign exchange student. I thought this was really cool, and wanted to do a whole broadcast story on it. While researching, I discovered there was another foreign exchange student on the team.
Hornet Media Extravaganza
2024-2025 | Anchor
2024
As mentioned in my personal statement, I was terrified of anchoring. Even with all of my prep, I was unable to eat or drink anything beforehand because of how nervous I was.
However, when everything was said and done, I did fine. I even enjoyed it. According to other broadcasters, I did amazing, which made me feel much better about it, too.
2025
I was not originally set to be an anchor for this year. I didn't have a partner and the hours quickly filled up. However, morning of the stream, I walked into the classroom and quickly found out an anchor was sick and could not make it. I volunteered to take his two hours, and his partner caught me up as I made my own notecards and we prepared our bits.
Unlike last year, I had no nerves over this because I learned that it was not as scary as I made it seem. Again, I enjoyed doing it and playing a bigger part in the livestream.
Concluding Thoughts
I've put a lot of work and tears into broadcast, and it has been extremely worth it. I came into this with the goal of expanding my skills further than print; I expected I would just make stories, but I have learned a whole new graphics program, developed graphics for sports productions, anchored livestreams, etc.
Recognitions: 2025 Mid-America High School Student Awards, HS Sports Program Nov. 2024 "The Hornets Nest," Student Television Network Broadcast Excellence Award
