Issue 1-Fall 2012

Kelly Gifford

Kelly Gifford is a junior studying journalism at the E.W. Scripps School.

How did you get involved in journalism?

I got involved in journalism through my high school paper. I moved up the ranks and became Editor-in-Chief. But I really caught the journo-bug when I was really young watching Diane Sawyer and Charlie Gibson on Good Morning America, and Peter Jennings when he was still around. I just was entranced by everything they said. I wanted to be able to captivate people with stories about the world. Super romantic, I know. But that’s where it bit me.

Why did you decided to attend Scripps, and how has Scripps helped you reach your goals?

I decided to attend Scripps for a multitude of reasons. First, Ohio has a fast swim team. Ever since I could walk, I could swim. I thought I was going to swim all four years of college, and to be honest I wanted to do that more than journalism, up until I came to school. But like I said before, I loved journalism so I figured “what the hell.” It wasn’t until I got here and took J101 ( JFreshman Newsroom) that I realized I had to give up my first love (swimming) to pursue my true love (journalism and the news). So I was very lucky to have found my perfect match on so many levels. Scripps has helped me achieve my goals by putting me in contact with some of the most amazing staff and students around. I wouldn’t have gotten the internships or the experience I have now if it weren’t for some amazing mentors, both peer and professional. The internship connections, the advice and the real world experience at The Post have taken me to a whole new level in my journey to becoming a top-notch journalist. My younger brother goes to Indiana University and he always tells me he is jealous of how OU’s professors seem to really be invested in their students. I always tell him “It’s a Scripps thing,” and it truly is.

What has been one of your most influential internship and what would be your best advice for someone about to start an internship?

My most influential internship would have to be my Statehouse Bureau experience with the Cleveland Plain Dealer last spring quarter. I was fortunate enough to be selected as a sophomore, and pardon my french, but I was scared shitless. I got to work with the big dogs, me, a lowly sophomore. But it was the most rewarding experience and it helped me attain another intern­ship at the Commercial Appeal in Memphis, TN immediately after. I was taken out of my comfort zone and that was the kick I needed to get better as a reporter. The best advice I could give anyone looking to get an internship has two parts. The first part is to seek out any and every opportunity you can. There is nothing wrong with applying for tons of different things and getting a few “nos.” It’s probably the best thing for a young journalist to face some rejection. The second part of my advice is to show employers who you truly are. Newsrooms can become a very dismal place to be. Youngsters like us bring back the fire for news for a lot of reporters in a newsroom. Don’t be afraid to be excited in an interview or show a side of yourself you may not think is pertinent. One of my old swim coaches used to tell me, “Nothing great was every accomplished without enthusiasm.” Whether he coined the phrase or not, it is true. If you want an internship, showing them how much you want it can only help you.
Issue 2-Fall 2012

Aaren Host

Aaren Host is a sophomore studying journalism at the E.W. Scripps School.

Why did you choose to study journalism?

I think writing is something I’m most comfortable with. As a student you are always writing so when it came to picking a major it just seemed
right. When I have to say something I always feel more comfortable writing it down and putting all your ideas together on paper and organizing
it all.

What would be your dream job?

My dream job would be something that you can put your personality into. Not just reporting this and this  happened. Maybe something like a column or blogging but something
that pays off in the end.
What has been the most important thing you have learned at Scripps?

That you really have to go out and get what you want. You can’t just sit on the side and watch things happen.
- Interview completed by Talyor Petras

Issue 3 Fall 2012

Jacob Betzner

Jacob Betzner is a junior studying journalism at the E.W. Scripps School

Why do you want to be a journalist?

Growing up my parents always had the news on and listened to the radio and I realized that I could do that to. I started taking some journalism classes and loved it.

What clubs or organizations are you involved in?

I am the treasurer for SPJ and I write for ACRN, Backdrop and Essay Magazine. I’m also a Scripps school ambassador.

What is your favorite thing about Scripps?

The professors, they have a lot of experience and have a lot of knowledge and are willing to get to know you.

What made you want to go to Leipzig?

I wanted to go because my entire ancestry is German and I’ve always wanted to go to Germany. The trip being based on journalism was a big factor to go. I was excited to get going and learn about their culture.

What was your big moment of culture shock?

Everybody was a lot more friendly; they weren’t always on their phones and their were complete strangers that wanted to have conversations.

What was the most memorable experience on the trip?

We got to work with a radio station and I got to do a sports story about the Euro Cup and get out to talk to soccer players.

How do you think this trip built you as a journalist?

It made me better prepared to deal with people of different backgrounds and helped me get out of my comfort zone.
–Interview conducted by Holly Moody

Fall 2012-Issue Four

Jim Ryan

Jim Ryan is a sophomore studying journalism at the E.W. Scripps School.
When did you know you wanted to study journalism?

The first sign of me being a journalist is when I was 7 and my mom wrote in my journal that I was going to be a successful sports writer one day. I have known no other profession that I wanted to do.

Why did you choose to come to Scripps?

I Googled top journalism schools in United States and this one was closest to home. I remember meeting with Professor Stewart and asked him the question, “What can I get at Ohio and not anywhere else?” He said, “Nothing. It’s what the students choose to do on their own terms that set it apart.”
What are you involved with on campus?
I am the Assistant Sports Editor for The Post. Everyone finds their thing at school and I would say that’s my thing. I live and die by the Post. It’s the best time to be a sports writer at Ohio University ever and I have been fortunate to step into that role early in our time here.

Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years I’ll be working my way up telling stories that matter, regardless of the medium.

- Interview conducted by Taylor Petras