By Karen List
Jackson Cote, class of 2019, has been covering COVID and other issues as a breaking news reporter for MassLive.com. He recently wrote a three-part series on the statewide drought in Massachusetts. Here is Part 1 of his drought story focusing on why – despite plummeting water levels, more than 1,000 fires and toxic algae outbreaks – it has not received the attention it deserves. He quotes U.S. Rep. James McGovern: "We need to do something on climate change. Something big and bold."
"Working as a breaking news reporter in 2020 has been an adventure through and through. I've covered numerous protests, allegations of abuse at a prison, a statewide environmental crisis and more. Despite the crazy hours and breakneck speed, though, I love my work, and I wouldn't be where I am without my education in the UMass Journalism Department. A highlight of my job is reporting on a story and frequently seeing fellow alumni at other news outlets covering the same issue. I know the University prepared us well."