Giving a Voice to Everyone

Hannah Castro, writer

A crucial characteristic of journalism is providing people the opportunity to have their voices heard. For the past several months, I’ve worked as a general reporter at Utah Public Radio (UPR) producing stories in mediums of sound. Through my experience there, I’ve learned the concept of being a “jack of all trades,” and giving a voice to everyone.

I’ve covered many events that gave me new perspectives and interests. I’ve covered stories for USU’s Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art, Inclusion and Diversity conferences, press conferences and town grand openings. These stories left an impact on me and, I hope, a positive mark on our community.

At UPR, I work closely with news director Sheri Quinn, and we’re confident that we make an unstoppable team. There were countless times when news stories had sensitive deadlines, and Sheri and I worked hand in hand to get it out timely and accurately.

As a USU Journalism and Communication (JCOM) student, I attest the JCOM faculty is the reason I’m where I am today.

I’ve been mentored and pushed by my JCOM professors because they see my potential and want me to put my best work into everything I do. I learned from the hands-on projects and classes because they prioritize each student and how to make their future bright.

Along with the help I receive on my schoolwork, JCOM also provides students with countless opportunities to be seen and heard. Whether it is internships, class field trips, or tagging along with Professor Brian Champagne on one of his stories, the opportunities are endless.

Seeing things in the bigger picture is what I always want to achieve and I’m a firm believer that everything and everyone has a story and a voice. It is my job to help bring it to life.

I have learned through reporting that stories don’t always have to be that obvious, you can spark a story from anything, but it is your job to tell it. Storytelling is a language everyone can speak.