Freshman Shelby Reynolds brings existing love of journalism and storytelling to ESC
Why did you choose to be a journalism major?
I chose my major because I lived, ate and breathed journalism in high school. I knew by my sophomore or junior year that I wanted to pursue a career
in journalism. I was on my school paper for four years. My first year I was a page
editor, then an online editor, then editor-in-chief for two years. I can confidently
say that I changed my paper and changed my staff. I accomplished a lot!
Have you had work experience in your emphasis area?
The only work I've done in this field since I've gotten to college is become a reporter
for the Sunflower. I've only done two stories so far though, but I'm really picking
up the pace so I'm constantly interviewing. But before college I was a sports reporter
for CatchItKansas.com.
How have you applied classroom experience in real life?
I think that the experience I have learned through journalism and the Elliott School
so far have GREATLY impacted my daily life. I am constantly interacting with strangers,
which is something that most people don't get the chance to do every day. I feel like
I am a much more approachable person because of my experience in journalism and communications
in general.
What advice would you give to Communication students trying to pick an emphasis area?
For students that want to pick up an emphasis area (specifically in journalism),
you just really need to put your name out there. Even if you just let the school know
you're interested, they're probably going to remember your name.
How has receiving the Murdock scholarship affected your college experience so far?
The Murdock gives me a little more credibility now. If people know that I won, then
they're much more likely to take interest in me. And that was definitely the case
with the Sunflower.
Finally, just tell me a little bit about yourself. What makes you unique?
I think I'm unique because I care about the little things and the moments. I love
covering special moments for people and telling their story. I've covered some really
special things and have been there to record someone's reaction. That sort of thing
fuels me to continue, and I think many of today's journalists have lost that. I think
journalism has transformed me into a genuine people person, or maybe I just have an
older soul.