Updated elevator pitch
Now that I have a better idea of what these are, here’s my second go: 
Hello, my name is Harmony Huskinson and I am studying journalism at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. I am enrolled in a dual master’s bachelor’s program, which is a part of Barrett, the Honors College. In my three years here I have worked for several parts of student media, including The State Press, our school newspaper, and my current position as assistant editor at State Press Magazine. I have interned at the Phoenix Magazine and am currently a community reporting intern in Mesa at The Arizona Republic. Whenever I can, I write stores about pop culture and nerd communities. I know nerd may sound weird, but really it’s my passion for these seldom-covered cultures that drives my love of journalism. For the past two years I have focused a beat around these communities and continually try to learn about the subject, which is surprisingly vast.
It is my opinion that the general public should know more about nerd culture; it’s art, it’s literature, it’s science, it’s technology, it’s fantasy, it’s everything people have ever cared about or held meaning for. However, I also have plenty of experience in more mainstream beats such as business, education and science. So, if you ever need a reporter who can delve into these subcultures and share their stories, or just need someone dedicated and truly interested in the world, I can do the job.
OK, that was my pitch! Please include any thoughts or advice in a comment!
Elevator Pitch – Nicole Lavella
I am a senior at ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication graduating in Spring 2013, earning both my bachelor and master’s degree in public relations in just four years.
A lover of writing, reading and history, I’ll also be graduating with a minor in history with an emphasis on European culture/communication.
I have an insatiable craving to learn that fuels my passion for people, travel, food, music and fashion. In fact, once I graduate, my goal is to practice public relations globally in the travel, luxury and lifestyle industry – something I didn’t know until interning for the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau last year.
I want to explore and change the world, and hope to do so through telling my future clients’ stories.
Elevator Pitch — Sara Steffan
by Sara Steffan
My dad always told me that communications was the key to success in all aspects of life. Without it, the world’s corporations would crumble and marriages would fall apart. So I chose to major in it. Getting my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in four years from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University has been an exhaustive whirlwind of information, but if I weren’t truly committed to it I wouldn’t be in my final semester before a rapidly approaching May graduation date. I want to help people realize what my dad did: that communication will make us happier and more successful, while also allowing us to be ourselves, in the workplace. My experience working for APS (the largest Arizona public utility) in internal communication has been extremely rewarding. Conducting satisfaction surveys and writing articles focusing on the people of our business are small ways I’m impacting how employees view their jobs (that take up much of their daily lives)! When I’m not helping that cause, I’m dabbling in many other things important to me, such as improving human rights through supporting organizations recognizing equal marriage opportunity or the quality of life of refugees. By the end of 2013, I’d like to take my skills to perhaps in sports or the nonprofit world to continue making an organization’s most important public feel respected in what they do.
Harmony’s Elevator Pitch
I decided to attend journalism school because I’m curious. I’m curious about people, about what they do, about what they mean to other people. As a journalist, I want to connect people; I want people to understand each other and relate to my writing like two friends discuss life over coffee.
As an individual, I devote my time to analyzing and participating in all things pop culture and nerd culture. This does not mean ignoring more complex issues for something simple and entertaining. This does not mean valuing television or video games or comic books over religious, political and social issues. My passion for pop culture stems from pop culture’s seamless integration into these everyday challenges of life. My goal, as a journalist and as a human being is to tell the story of those impassioned by these stories — nerds. As a result, the larger public will better understand these nerd populations — Trekkies, Otaku, Harry Potter fans — as people with valuable perspectives.
I consider these stories about nerds to add to society’s wider perspective. My coverage of cosplayers and comic book shops is not my own simple embrace of characters like Batman or genres like anime. I uncover the most truth about life from the realm of the imagined.
Fandoms like Star Wars have amazing cosplayers who make their costumes from scratch. Such skill!
It is my opinion that the general public should know more about nerd culture; it’s art, it’s literature, it’s science, it’s technology, it’s fantasy, it’s the epitome of the human spirit, for better or worse.
So, while some journalists will do amazing, necessary work covering the election, dodging bombs during war coverage, or investigating corporate finances, I will be at comic book conventions, covering the community that deserves a voice.
Newspapers and Art: win-win for all
My first passion was reading. As I child, I was the crazy kindergartener sitting in the corner trying to sound out words during research rather than play ball. The only assignments I remember from fourth grade are the short creative stories I had to write. I still have them at my parents house. I still think they were a work of genius.
Now, reading is my escape and writing is what I do.
I think that there are many people in the same boat as I am, people who love wonderful stories, but perhaps do not always set aside the time to sit down with a new book from the library or Kindle or whatever and enjoy. If it were conveniently presented though, we would soak up every word, devour each chapter.
The concept of fusing the world of journalism and the arts truly isn’t new, but I agree that right now, there is a chance to revolutionize the concept. There are so many avenues it can be taken. Like the Minneapolis Star revamping the concept of serials in the newspaper of old. It worked. People loved it. It is proof that people will take a second look at the paper if it is art infused.
While sure, a newspaper in my hands is nice, I can get it free online. What is harder to get for free is a beautifully written novella, a series of poems or perhaps even a photo essay.
I could see the Arizona Republic building relationships with local artists. What a mutually beneficial relationship! The artists get their work into the public eye, and earn more money than they would self-publishing on the web, and the paper brings in more readers and advertising. Win-win.
That is a paper I would pay for.
Elevator Pitch – Gerald Bourguet
Hi, my name is Gerald Bourguet and I’m a print journalist at ASU with a passion for sports and music. The most important thing to know about me is that I love to write: I’m good at it, I do it every day and I believe quality writing opens the door for discussion of the news. I’m originally from Albuquerque, NM, and yes, in case you were wondering, it is a part of the United States. I grew up playing and watching basketball, so I know the game inside and out. I’ve published numerous articles of sports analysis for multiple websites in addition to maintaining my own personal NBA blog. I’ll soon be writing a sports column for the Downtown Devil and I’m also in the process of creating a music website reviewing rock albums backed by a literature review of rock music history and its criticism. I’m skilled in social media, I enjoy interacting with people by sharing topical sports and music stories and I’m actively seeking employment for a writing position covering professional or college basketball.
Taati pitch
My Name is Taati Niilenge. I am a reporter at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation. I report on various issues in my region and has developed special interest in disadvantaged women and children. During my seven years of employment as a journalist, I have discovered that many people in my country lack computer kills. Many people try to make a living by selling arts and crafts, but they do not succeed because they cannot market themselves. Our region is often visited by tourists who do not know about these products . My goal after completing the Humphrey program will be to help them in gaining computer skills, especially online and social media. It will also help them to have a voice like the rest of the world, and to participate in information sharing. I have so far attended classes that will help them to reach this goal and I am eager to learn more.
This is me!!
I’m Andreza Andrade from Brazil, I’m a journalist with focus in environment causes and Indigenous rights issues. For several years, I have been working in a Socio Environment Organization as a communication advisor. Throughout of my 10 years living and working as journalist in Amazon Rainforest I have gotten an unique experience in work with Indigenous People and understand in the first hand what are the needs for that important region. Currently, I’m improving my multi media skills in order to be a specialist in New Media. I strong believe that my knowledge and skills will help me achieve my mission that is to help maintain the integrity of the Amazon Rainforest, as well to help the empowerment and recognition of the traditional cultures that live there, such as the Indigenous People.
Jessica Von Schell
Hi (insert name) – I’m Jessica Von Schell, a recent graduate from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism andMass Communication at Arizona State University, it’s a pleasure to meet you. My background is primarily in public relations and organizational communications.
Through five professional internships and a variety of academic courses I have mastered the art of communications writing and my body of work has supported the successful development of online web content, social media strategies and public relations campaigns for companies like the Phoenix Suns and the Flinn Foundation.
I am passionate about animals, hiking and anything public relations related! I am positive that my breadth of experience can support your organization’s mission and vision and produce metric-driven results. If you are ever looking for apublic relations or communications specialist, please do not hesitate to contact me. Here is my business card.[cid:ii_1352d37c52f9a5d8]
Jessica Choi
My name is Jessica Choi and I am a student at Arizona State University pursuing a degree in journalism and mass communication, with an emphasis in public relations. I am sufficient in using content management systems such as WordPress and can effectively communicate through a variety of social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter. I also have a background in film and media studies, which include movie promotion and marketing as well as special event planning, management and execution. My goal is to get an M.B.A. from the University of Washington’s School of Business and to someday either become a top public relations executive at a major movie studio or to own and operate a public relations firm in Los Angeles.
Hi! I’m Amy Villarreal
I’ve learned from my time at ASU that I have a genuine passion for writing, problem solving and learning. When I graduate in May 2013 from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Barrett, the Honors College, I want to practice public relations in the fashion industry. I belong in PR because I am patient, yet ambitious, trend setting, yet adaptable, a listener, yet a networker and I have an imagination to work creatively. My background includes working as the head social media producer for a women’s health and lifestyle company and representing the Fiesta Bowl organization as a Queen and Court member. Both of these positions have prepared me for taking on large responsibilities, working with all kinds of people and speaking effectively. I am always seeking more experience to learn more about public relations while also exploring what I can offer to the field.
Justin Beatty
I’m Justin Beatty and I am a 20-year-old student pursuing a masters in journalism. I love documentary film and I love storytelling. I spent 3 months of my junior year producing a documentary as part of one of my college classes. It nearly killed me, but it was the most rewarding experience of my life. Having that under my belt, my goal is to get a M.A. in social documentation from UC Santa Cruz in its competitive SocDoc program. I want to combine my experience in video production and my journalism background to examine and critique society through the stories of real people.
Kelsea Wasung
Hello, My name is Kelsea Wasung. I am pursuing my master’s and bachelor’s degrees in journalism with an emphasis in broadcast at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. I am currently a producer for NewsWatch, Cronkite’s award-winning student broadcast. I have interned with Fox 5 San Diego and Know99, a government-run television station in Phoenix that focuses on stories about youth and education. The stories I filmed for Know99 aired every night. I was invited to Germany last summer where I met with media and government officials to discuss the differences between German and U.S. journalism. My goal as a journalist is to make a positive difference by reporting on issues that have the potential to change lives for the better. I am also interested in business reporting to help keep corporations honest and help people make informed decisions about their finances. I want to help restore trust in journalists by participating in truthful, accurate, clear, transparent, objective, and meaningful reporting.
Love Journalism
My name is Goran Rizaov, and I am a business journalist with more than 6 years of experience in the finest daily newspaper in Macedonia. The years of practical work have made me think of making good journalism as of making love. You just forget about the fear of death while you’re doing it.
Currently I’m going through a Professional Development Year fellowship at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism. The school’s outstanding professors and students are helping me learn advanced Computer Assisted reporting, data analysis, and Online media skills. I believe this knowledge will help me make a recognized contribution in the efforts to make my country and the whole region of South East Europe a more decent place for it’s citizens.
I strongly believe that not a single elected official or influential company has the right for wrongdoing in order to get higher profits or stay on power. That’s why I try to use all available platforms to tell stories that scratch the surface and dig deeper in every important matter for society. I prefer to tell the people what they need to know instead of what they want to know.
Everybody to Slovakia!
I am Elena and I am from Slovakia. Currently I am on a one year Fulbright Scholarship at ASU’ s Cronkite school of Journalism and Mass Communication. Back home I work as a travel journalist writing and editing for various magazines and newspapers. I also work as a lecturer of professionals in the tourism industry.
As a journalist with background in tourism industry my main goal is to research new methods and PR tools on how to effectively promote my country as a tourist destination. That is why I would like to cooperate with Convention and Visitors Bureaus, Chambers of Commerce and other authorities with tourism on their agenda.
My other goal is to find a better way of promotion of Slovak hotels and resorts with similar product (golf & spa) as those in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
I would also like to cooperate with travel magazines, guides or travel shows, where I could contribute with my knowledge of my country and Central European region.
Finally, I would like to research a way on how to establish an effective, objective and reputable system of evaluation of the hotels and restaurants in Slovakia.
To Be Elevated
Hi there, my name’s Lujain.
I’m from the Maldives, and currently on a US State Department Fulbright Fellowship at ASU’s journalism school.
Back home, I’m a national news anchor, a university lecturer on multimedia journalism, and also a Communications Director for an IT company.
I have also worked on creative and media related projects for the Maldivian government, the UN and other major organisations back home.
During my time here in the USA I won a video competition that was organised by Harvard University, which in itself was a dream come true for me. I submitted an animated piece on how the future of news would look like.
As part of my time in the US, I wish to gain relevant experiences in how communication tools are utilised to convey effective messages, whether it be in the media, or for it.
Such aspects that I want to explore include the formulation of communication strategies that would aid in branding and the spread of public awareness campaigns, amongst others.
Therefore, I think it would be ideal for me to work for an advertising and public relations agency that would allow me to explore how they deal with the creation and execution of communications related content.
I would love it, if you could just point me in the right direction on how to go about doing this, as you are someone who is well versed in this field.
Thanks and have a great day.
(*Ping* Door Opens)
Emily Timm’s Elevator Pitch
Hello, it’s so great to run into you.
My name is Emily Timm.
I have a range of experience in media and public relations and I think we have a lot to offer each other. My strengths are in writing and oral communication, and mobile and web marketing.
Here’s one of my business cards. You’ll find the URL to my website, too – emilytimm.com – to see my past work. I’d love to meet up with you soon, please email or call me.
Do you have a business card I could have?
Great, thank you. Have a wonderful day and I look forward to talking with you soon.
Julia Tylor
My name is Julia Tylor, and I am a digital journalist. I attend the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, one of the top journalism schools in the U.S., where I am working toward both a bachelor’s degree in digital journalism and a master’s degree in mass communication. I will graduate with both in a year, when I’m 21. I work as a copy editor at The Arizona Republic and as a managing editor, chief copy editor and designer for the Downtown Devil, a student-run publication. I have also worked as the social-marketing consultant for a software startup. I have experience in reporting, writing, editing, designing, shooting video and photo, using social media and coding websites. All of these skills contribute to my goal of being a backpack journalist, able to cover the news in a comprehensive and compelling way no matter where my career takes me.
Annie Carson
My name is Annie Carson and I am studying Journalism and Mass Communication (specifically Public Relations) and am set to graduate with both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in May 2013. I am also pursuing a minor in Justice Studies and hope to attend law school to study Entertainment and Media Law following graduation. I enjoy studying both the positive and negative aspects and uses of social media, and the way that mass media can affect various aspects of justice. I was a Public Relations Intern for the past year at The Lavidge Company, a full service advertising, marketing and PR firm in Phoenix, and worked on accounts such as Banner Health and Discount Tire. I also had the opportunity to check various media into the red carpet at Celebrity Fight Night, where I got to work with and meet publicists for different celebrities. I am currently working at a restaurant in Phoenix called La Grande Orange. I am extremely organized, thorough and creative. I am a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, am 20 years old, a fourth generation Arizonan, and I hate cold weather.
Gardenia Coleman
Hello Humphrey Fellows, I’m broadcast-focus multimedia journalist interested in utilizing my journalism skills in a non-profit or corporate setting. I’m also a huge fan of public radio and would like to contribute to a local station by either reporting and/or producing. I’ve directed and co-produced a documentary, “The Keepers”, which aired on AZ PBS. It’s a behind-the-scene look at zookeepers and the animals they care for. Additionally, I’ve interned at PHX11, the city of Phoenix government channel, producing/reporting for the channel. Currently, I intern at ABC15 KNXV. Here I produce segments, write scripts and prepare the show rundown at Sonoran Living, a lifestyles show. After I graduate in May, I plan to stay and work in the Valley.
Elevator Pitch
a>I am Lubna Benjamin, a broadcast Journalist from Pakistan, working in a news channel of the country named Geo Television for six years as Associate Producer with its current affairs talk show Capital Talk. Presently I am in Walter Cronkite School of Journalism studying as a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, a fellowship offered by the US State Department for mid-career professionals. During my six years of experience as a broadcast journalist, I have not only produced some special programs, but also made several reports on the topics such as: violence against women, judicial crisis in Pakistan and obsolete condition of government schools. I,as a broadcast journalist and as a part of the talk show always and will continue to highlight the issues that have significance in the life of common man in Pakistan as their problems are usually neglected owing to the political upheavals in the country.
While we are in the elevator…
Hi! My name is Evgeny Kuzmin and I am a journalist from Russia. I live in Siberia and am holding there the local news agency chief position. My background came from 5-year-long work at a TV station as a news reporter, I also hold ‘specialist’ degree in journalism. Now I am entirely online as our agency has huge website and all of our activities happen there.
There are hard times for the profession of journalist back home since press is being strictly censored. Things are slightly less complicated in the Internet, since it is not censored yet, unlike specific media that are being established there.
I try to do my best in promoting press freedom principles in my region and my country. I also promote New Media and citizen journalism, as there are still a lotof states, including mine, that are still underdeveloped in terms of Internet usage.
I believe the right way to extend freedom of speech in my society is to help ordinary people realize their voices have power and can be very influential. I help this happen by establishing news platforms for sharing opinions that governmental officials can’t just ignore. My team also makes any possible attempts it can to keep governmental activities as open as possible.
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