After leaving Ole Miss and the Meek School, I never took my eyes off of my career goals. I earned a master’s degree at Syracuse University in broadcast journalism with an emphasis on sports communication. The educational foundation at both schools gave me everything I needed to be successful in my first job.
I started in December 2014 as the weekend sports anchor at KBJR/KDLH in Duluth, Minnesota — a good challenge to begin my career. It tested my creativity, flexibility and ability to meet deadlines. Working in small-market television develops each of these (especially when dealing with shared services agreements), and it is a necessary first step when it comes to becoming an excellent communicator. Finding a mentor figure is a near-critical part of professional growth.
I have just accepted a weekend sports anchor job at WOWK in Charleston, West Virginia, where I will be helping to bolster local sports coverage. The most exciting part about that to me is working in a newsroom full of sports fans to build relationships in the community, and navigating that process alongside experienced, excellence-driven journalists.
As it was for me (and plenty of Rebels), you know when a place feels right, and when a person is earnest. When you know where you belong, it takes the pressure off and you’re able to perform at your best.
Hotty Toddy!