Video by Mya Trujillo
Story by Jayden Armant
Howard University journalism professors came together for a Journalism Town Hall March 20 to share opportunities and offerings for students in the Cathy Hughes School of Communications.
Journalism sequence professor Jennifer Thomas and Department of Media, Journalism & Film chair Ingrid Sturgis opened with greetings, followed by a meditation by professor Stacey Patton.
Thomas displayed a video recapping the sequence’s best work and organizations, including the work by senior students and events from the Howard University Association of Black Journalists (HUABJ) and Cover2Cover Magazine.
This video showcased the post-graduate success of former students, illustrating to current students the avenues they can go once they graduate from Howard University.
Professor Christine McWhorter emphasized this as someone newer to the Howard scene, illustrating the differences in networking between Howard and other institutions.
“Make sure to utilize your connections at Howard,” McWhorter said. “I’ve never seen this level of networking at any other school. Companies care about what you have done, not what you can do.”
Sturgis said the prominence of the Howard brand and the elevated networking opportunities within SOC can help students succeed.
“It’s important to immerse yourself in things you came here to do,” she said. “Don’t just do it for the grade.”
The event also highlighted Howard’s student-centered publications and programs, including 101 Magazine, The Hilltop newspaper, HUABJ, Spotlight Network, WHBC Radio, and the Ida B. Wells Society.
Jada Ingleton, the student editor-in-chief of 101 Magazine, called the town hall a “very beneficial and powerful tool, especially for underclassmen.”
She emphasized the importance of getting involved in these groups to build professional relationships and gain experience outside just coursework.
“You’re taking advantage of these tools and organizations at your disposal, and you’re already aware of what’s next for you and what you’re working toward,” Ingleton said.
Professor Dominic McKenzie ended the event with words of encouragement to those still feeling isolated or unsure of themselves.
“You’ve proven yourself, so now it’s time to work,” McKenzie said.
