Why did you choose to come to Nebraska and specifically the College of Journalism?
I chose Nebraska because I was awarded the Global Laureate Scholarship by the Office of Admissions. The award alleviated my parents' financial burden significantly. My research on UNL also told me that the College of Journalism has an award-winning faculty and many alumni who went on to achieve great heights in the field of journalism. That was why I made my decision to study journalism at UNL.
Who at Nebraska has helped you be successful? Is there a professor who has made a big impact on your education?
I have to thank Professor Jill Martin for supporting and encouraging me to cover stories that I felt like I lacked the skills to do so. Since taking two of her classes this semester, I have produced more stories than I ever taught I will during my time at UNL. She pushed me to become a better reporter. She made me feel confident and comfortable in my own skin. I'm really grateful for her.
Describe your current job/internship. Are there any other internships you've had throughout your time at CoJMC?
I'm an intern at Prairie Schooner, a well-known literary magazine that is headquartered on the first floor of Andrews Hall. I help screen manuscript submissions from all over the world and contribute directly to selected portions of their weekly newsletter.
Have you studied abroad—where, when, favorite city and memory?
I'm from Malaysia, so I'm technically studying abroad in the U.S. right now. I visited Seattle with my friends last spring break, and we loved the ocean view and seafood! My favorite memory of Seattle is when we had delicious dim sum in Chinatown.
Are there any organizations you're involved in on or off-campus? Any other hobbies?
I was involved in Nebraska University Malaysian Student Association during my first year at UNL. We held various events throughout campus to celebrate Malaysian holidays. Organizing these events is a great way to raise awareness of the Malaysian culture. My favorite event that we did was Diwali Night. The venue was packed, the Indian food we ordered was amazing, and everyone had a great time!
I like cooking and baking in my free time. My proudest achievement in the kitchen is a chocolate swiss roll.
Do you have any post-graduation plans? If not, what would you like to do?
I don't have any yet. Ideally, I would have found a full-time job in the journalism field by the time I graduate, but I think that sounds a little too optimistic.
My ultimate dream job is being a foreign correspondent for Vice News or the New York Times. It seems like a really distant dream though.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I was inspired by a TV show character to be an FBI agent when I was about 12 years old. Her name is Olivia Dunham from Fringe. Olivia was probably the first-ever female lead I've seen on TV who's independent, smart and confident in her own abilities. I obviously did not become an FBI agent, but I still love to watch crime drama though.
What has been your favorite class at CoJMC?
I like News Lab a lot. It's the Capstone class journalism majors have to take at the end of the senior year. We have the freedom to choose whatever stories or topics we would like to cover.
Advice for a new CoJMC student?
- Start your assignments early.
- Accept every opportunity you're given. You never where it will lead you.
- Don't take what you have now for granted. You still have professors you can go to for questions. You're still surrounded by your friends. You are still allowed to make mistakes.
