When I was 5, my family moved to a new city, and I started kindergarten at Ursuline Academy of New Orleans, the first all-girls Catholic school in the United States. Located on State Street, it sat just four miles from the French Quarter, where jazz music, street performers and tourists roamed streets still recovering from flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina four years earlier. I was surrounded by a diverse community of classmates from a wide range of cultural, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds, each bringing their own stories and traditions to our shared learning experience.

As I grew older, I became curious about current events, sparked by discussions in social studies class. I watched the 10 p.m. news with my mom, who supported my concern for humanity and answered my questions. I prefer listening to people speak about their experiences rather than talking myself, and I especially enjoy writing about what they say.

Growing up in New Orleans fostered my appreciation for and curiosity about the diverse human experience. As a journalist, I am committed to understanding and sharing people’s stories. When I conduct interviews, I am sensitive to sources’ concerns and ensure they are accurately represented. Given a hands-on opportunity, I am eager to apply my passion for journalism and determined to improve my skills while learning new ones.

I am currently a senior at the University of Arkansas, majoring in journalism and political science with a minor in Spanish. After earning my bachelor’s degree in May 2026, I will earn a master’s in journalism the following May.

Best Lifestyles Reporter - Fall 2023-Spring 2024

Issued by The Arkansas Traveler - April 2024

Omni Bill Moyers Investigative Reporting and Editors Travel Fund

Issued by the School of Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Arkansas - April 2025