Rachel Knowlton of Cabot is working toward a master’s degree in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Strategic Communication. She received a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Journalism from the University of Central Arkansas.
Rachel is a morning news producer for KTHV, Channel 11 in Little Rock. This involves planning the morning show (including choosing the stories and video, planning the camera shots, etc.), writing the show, and keeping the anchors on track while live on the air.
Why did you choose to seek a graduate degree in Mass Communication?
“I decided to seek a graduate degree for future career opportunities. When I started, I wasn’t sure how I wanted to use it. I just figured doing it while I still had the time and energy was the best option. I didn’t want to wait too long, because I was afraid to lose any motivation/drive. The short version: I just felt ready to tackle it… It was not pre-meditated. None of my original plans included a master’s degree.”
What advice would you give to undergraduate students that you wish someone had given you?
“1) Follow your course guide (and your adviser). If you take all the necessary classes and make the required grades, you will graduate. I promise.
“2) Find some experience. You’ve probably heard the phrase “all bark and no bite.” That’s what classes are without the leg work. Apply for internships, temporary jobs, contract work… whatever helps prove you can bite.
“3) Be nice. Like Maya Angelou said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself?
“I love to sing. I’m on the worship team at my church. When I’m not working or doing homework, which is extremely rare, I like to read. My dream is to have a giant library with books organized by color. (It’s just so dang pretty!)
“I have a group of friends that I’ve known since birth. We still see each other every weekend. (We’re all in our 20s.) Coffee is my dearest friend and closest companion. I never leave home without it. I am addicted to Amazon. Send help.”
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