Meet Cameron Sibert, a senior Journalism major with a Sports Journalism Concentration, who discovered that stepping out of his comfort zone along with hard work and perseverance paved the road to success.
How would you describe your time as a Journalism major, and how has the Journalism Department helped prepare you for your future career?
I was constantly trying to find ways to get comfortable being uncomfortable. I would get in front of the microphone and camera as often as possible. Professors in the Journalism Department have been great teachers and have always done a great job offering thoughtful critique and reflection.
Which classes, professors or experiences particularly stand out for you and why?
My classes with Professor Greeley Kyle in the broadcast studio were my favorite. Professors like Greeley are becoming rarer and rarer in a world where everyone receives a participation trophy. He will not baby you, he tells you how it is, and I will forever be grateful for his upfront critiques.
What are your points of pride, accomplishments or the skills you developed that you're proud of the most?
I worked as a Sports Broadcaster and Reporter at WMUA and later became the Sports Department Director. I'm proud of how I handled navigating the group through the Covid-19 pandemic and sports shutdowns.
While a Journalism major, what is your favorite memory or inspiring moment?
My favorite memories are of traveling to broadcast basketball games and simply covering sports in general.
Which student media organizations or university clubs were you a part of, and how have you been involved?
I was a writer at The Massachusetts Daily Collegian and was also Broadcaster and Sports Department Director at WMUA during my time at UMass.
What words of wisdom do you have for the next class of journalism students?
Take advantage of all that UMass Amherst has to offer. College is a time made for getting out of your comfort zone, trying everything, and finding your fit. Remember to keep track of your work and store it somewhere for when it's time to present it to employers. Try early to get an idea of what you want to do and mold your skillset for that profession. Develop your people skills, become someone people want to work with, get to know your peers, and develop your network. Everyone will end up somewhere after graduation, and you never know who might be able to help down the line.
What are your hopes and aspirations or post-graduation plans?
I am now a reporter for Channel 12 News in Beaumont, Texas. I hope to continue my growth as a member of the media. In Texas, everything will be new to me, so hopefully, I can be self-sustaining and make a positive impact on the station and the area that I cover.
What is your dream job?
I hope to be the host of a large production. Whether it be a show on ESPN or the nightly news on ABC, I'd like to be fearless on TV and truly master the art of on-camera performance.