This week, former CT Editor-in-Chief Jackie Borchardt ’07 offers some advice for students pursuing a career in journalism and sheds some light on the role that media plays on UR’s campus. After studying English and Spanish at UR, Jackie earned a graduate degree at the University of Missouri. Recently, she started a job as an education reporter in Casper, Wyoming.

What’s life like as a journalist?
I see journalists as part scientists and part artists who work for a wide audience of readers. After doing the research, the journalist presents the findings in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable. It’s possible to plan ahead, but news happens and you have to be flexible and willing to adjust. I like that unpredictability. I enjoy the challenge of working against a deadline. Of course, I like some stories more than others, but in the end it’s about what matters to the reader.

Specifically, what kind of work do you do?
I’m the education reporter, so I write news and feature stories about preschool through college for our newspaper, Web site and my education blog. I also cover state issues because we have a statewide circulation. I find topics or events of interest to readers and then learn the story. I write everyday. On a good day, I get out of the office, meet people, and see things first-hand. On those days, the story usually writes itself.

What opportunities can students interested in journalism pursue while at UR?
Although there isn’t a journalism program, there are journalism and media courses. The best way to try out journalism is to write for the Campus Times. The CT throws brand new reporters right into the story — you learn best as you go and later from your mistakes. I left UR with some reporting basics and a love for storytelling, which prepared me for my journalism classes in graduate school. I also interned at my hometown (Rockford, Illinois) paper in between my junior and senior years and turned the experience into an independent study through the supportive English department.

What role do you think media plays in UR’s future?
UR is a small campus. Word travels fast, so it’s important that the truth gets out. Despite the small student body, people still group together. The media have time and resources to highlight diverse parts of campus life that go unnoticed during the daily grind. The increase of social media demonstrates a shift in how people communicate. People are constantly seeking connections, and services have to change to meet those needs.

Now that you’re a professional, what expertise can you offer the Campus Times?
Newsrooms tend to be exclusive, but should be more welcoming and inclusive of people who want to try reporting or taking pictures. Don’t be afraid to write about what people are talking about. Get out of the office and get some fresh air and sunlight every once in a while. The best journalist experiences a story and tells it genuinely.

As an alumna, how do you personally stay connected to UR?
I’m a member of the Young Alumni Council, so I talk with alumni from various years. I donate annually because alumni support is essential for a college’s livelihood. I went back for two Meliora weekends and will probably go again in the future. I also read the Campus Times and keep in touch with friends on Facebook and Twitter. Everywhere I move, I connect with people from UR, usually by accident. I have yet to meet someone in Wyoming, but I know they’re here or close by.

Are you enjoying life out west?
You can’t beat the scenery and options for spending time outdoors — hiking, skiing, camping. Sure, there’s no Tiffany’s and the big buzz in town is that we’re getting an Olive Garden, but you don’t see this many stars in Rochester or New York City. I lived in Louisiana before moving to Wyoming, so I’m looking forward to a full winter. I live about ten minutes from downhill and cross-country ski areas and the season goes into April.

Favorite UR food item?
I spent a lot of time in Wilson Commons, so I ate a lot of sushi and Blimpie subs. And Oreos with peanut butter milkshakes. I looked forward to tater tots at Danforth brunch. Rochester has fantastic restaurants. At least once a month I crave food from Chen Garden, King and I or Sinbad’s.