Meet Jordyn Kamara, a senior Journalism and Communication double major with a Broadcast Journalism Concentration, who was empowered to develop her voice by sharing her personal experiences through her writing.
How would you describe your time as a Journalism major, and how has the Journalism Department helped prepare you for your future career?
In my Junior year, I decided to switch to the Journalism major because I didn’t feel fulfilled or interested in what I was previously studying. The entire Journalism Department, specifically advisor John Ciampa, was very welcoming and supportive. The last two years as a Journalism major have been both challenging and fulfilling. Coming into a major I didn’t know too much about was scary, but I learned about my interests and what the journalism field had to offer. Throughout my courses, I discovered that writing was one of my strong suits, and this helped me get a better idea of what kind of career I would pursue after graduating. I am grateful for my time as a journalism student and for the professors and staff who helped me along the way.
Which classes, professors or experiences particularly stand out for you and why?
Professor Nick McBride stood out for me the most. Each class I took with him helped me voice my life experiences and opinions while learning so much about myself and my peers. This year was my first year taking classes with him, but I immediately knew he cared so much about students and the future of our generation. I took the following three courses with Professor McBride this year, Covering Race, Politics of Sports, and Community Journalism. Each class was unique to its subject, but it was the way Professor McBride ran each course that made the experience so memorable. He encouraged us to question everything and didn’t limit class discussions to just the material we discussed that day. If I could take another class with him, I would!
What are your points of pride, accomplishments or the skills you developed that you're proud of the most?
I'm most proud of overcoming the online learning challenges I faced during Covid-19. This semester I took a multimedia course titled, Reporting for Radio and Podcasting, which was my most challenging class but the most rewarding at the same time. Before this course, I knew nothing about podcasting and had very little interest in it. However, it quickly became an interest of mine after learning more about it. This semester we had to create three different podcasts on our own. After several mental breakdowns and help from my professor via zoom, I felt relieved and had successfully learned to use podcasting software. I now enjoy making podcasts and might continue to create them after my time at UMass Amherst.
While a Journalism major, what is your favorite memory or inspiring moment?
My favorite memory as a Journalism major is of an inspiring moment during my summer Opinion Writing course with Professor Steve Fox. This class was one of my favorites because we were allowed to write about anything we wanted. Towards the end of the summer, we handed in our final opinion pieces, and Professor Fox asked if he could potentially submit my writing to the Daily Hampshire Gazette. It was the most inspiring moment because I never knew my writing was good enough to be published. It has motivated me to continue writing about personal experiences and sharing them with others.
Which student media organizations or university clubs were you a part of, and how have you been involved?
A classmate in my Covering Race class recommended that I write for The Rebirth Project. I had written a personal piece that I was interested in sharing, so I reached out to the editor at The Rebirth Project. They liked my piece and published it on their website. Although my involvement with The Rebirth Project was brief, it was an incredible experience for me because I'm still getting comfortable with others seeing my writing.
What words of wisdom do you have for the next class of journalism students?
I would tell the next class of journalism students to always go after what they're interested in and never give up even when things get tough. The Journalism professors and staff are helpful and care so much about their students. Never give up because the work is worth it!
What are your hopes and aspirations or post-graduation plans?
My goal post-graduation is to continue writing about topics I'm passionate about in life. I hope to get a job with a radio station or news outlet, but regardless, I will continue to follow my passions and see where life takes me.
What is your dream job?
My dream is to be a news reporter, but ultimately, I hope to continue learning new skills and gain more experience in the journalism field. I enjoy helping others and want to have some impact on the world with my writing.