Meet Samuel Rodriguez, a senior Journalism major, who discovered that building self confidence is one of the keys to personal and professional success.
How has the UMass Journalism Department shaped you into the journalist you are today and helped prepare you for your future career?
Professors within the Journalism Department have helped me gain confidence and have provided the connections needed to pursue a journalism career. For example, Greeley Kyle really pushed me to be my best self. He helped me feel comfortable on-air and behind the scenes when we ran our shows. Even when I had no idea how to produce, he helped by working with me to get it right. I also admired his honesty. He never lied or sugarcoated anything, and he always told you where you messed up. I respect that kind of honesty as it helped me become a better person with and without journalism. I now feel confident and comfortable with my skills.
What have been your most impactful journalism classes or professors, and why?
I had a lot of classes that taught me a lot, but my favorites were my sports journalism courses with Steve Fox and the Sports Talk Live - Broadcast Performance class with Greeley Kyle. Both professors have had a huge impact on my life and made me want to pursue this field. They were and will always be in my corner with any questions I ever have. I will always be thankful for everything they taught me.
Which student media organizations or university clubs were you a part of, and how have you been involved?
I was a member of the sports section of WMUA radio my senior year. I had the chance to call a football game and a women's basketball game. These are chances that people wait their entire lives for, and I did it within a year. Each member has an opportunity to call a game, work on a podcast, or even host their own sports show. Overall I loved my time with WMUA, and I am very honored to have been apart of such a great group. I urge anyone interested in WMUA to reach out because they are very welcoming to newcomers!
What are your points of pride, accomplishments, or the skills you developed that you are proud of most?
I am most proud of my ability to create newscasts, and I'm also proud of my gowth in confidence with my on-air presence.
What are your most memorable UMass experiences as a journalism student?
My most memorable experiences would have to be almost every time I stepped into the broadcast studio. The energy there is unmatched, especially when everyone is feeling stressed on show day.
What advice would you give to the next class of journalism students?
Take as much in as you can, and always reach out to your professors because they love to help. Sit down and have conversations with them because you can learn much more from a personal question than from a group chat.
What are your plans after graduation?
I'm excited to announce that I have accepted a job in Decatur, Illinois, where I will be a Morning Show Producer at WAND-TV!
What is your dream job?
My dream job is to work at ESPN as a reporter or a producer.