Speak Out
Jennifer Robinson
Outstanding Electronic Journalism Senior
for Leadership

Rick Peterson on what makes Jennifer stand out in broadcast journalism:

Jennifer Robinson has done outstanding work this semester for the students’ daily Carolina News television show.

Beginning this semester, WBTW-TV in Myrtle Beach has requested to showcase our students’ best stories on their Web site and Jennifer has been a regular contributor all semester long.

In addition, Jennifer has been the recipient of the WYFF-TV Scholarship and the South Carolina Broadcasters Association Scholarship.

Jennifer Speaks Out:

Why did you choose USC?

It didn’t hurt that USC was the home of the Gamecocks. What really reeled me in was a brochure I got with information about USC’s J-School. I already knew journalism was what I wanted to pursue, and the J-School’s reputation and programs were a perfect fit. After seeing campus, I was sold.

Why broadcast journalism?

I’ve always enjoyed journalism. In high school, my passion for the field led me to a radio job. It was an amazing experience, and I knew that I wanted to make a career of it. Unfortunately, the radio aspect of the J-School program was dropped my freshman year, but I’ve learned so much even so. I got to learn all about and experience the television side of broadcast, and I’ve come to love it just as much.

Favorite/most beneficial class?

Senior Semester has been the most challenging yet enjoyable experience. It has given me a taste of the “real thing,” and I’ve really been able to get to know and build close friendships with my classmates. I’ve learned more in that class than I have in the previous three years. Lecture classes are more common, but it’s the hands-on experience that really helped me get a feel for it. Oh, and I also have to say Erik Collins is amazing. His class was challenging and even intimidating but always fun, and I will never forget it.

What will you miss most about college?

It’s great to finally be graduating, but I will definitely miss scheduling my own hours and the friends that I’ve made.

And you won't miss?

I definitely won’t miss paying college tuition! (It’ll be nice to finally have someone pay ME!)

What are you really passionate about?

My passion is journalism. That may sound like a shameless plug, but it’s true. I’ve enjoyed writing for student newspapers throughout school, and my radio job was the most fun thing I’ve ever done. Even here at USC, I’ve been busy with some form of student media every semester. I enjoy getting to know new people, finding out about things that are going on in the community, and then being able to tell people about it. Whether it’s print, radio, television, or another medium, I am right at home.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

Right now, I’m job hunting. I would love to stay in South Carolina, because it is truly my home. Besides, nothing beats living in the South. I hope to be hired as a reporter or for some type of producing job at a TV news station in state or nearby at least.

Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for other students in your major?

To anyone who is currently making their way through the broadcast journalism tract, I would advise you to work hard, look for and take advantage of opportunities, and don’t let the horror stories of no pay, crazy hours, and sleep deprivation scare you away. If you truly love journalism, then you can make it. At the same point, soak up everything your professors tell you because at some point the information will come in handy. Also, make sure you take advantage of internships!! They will pay off big when you’re job hunting.

Any parting words or something you'd like to say to your SJMC family, or anyone else, before you head out the door?

To my friends in senior semester: We made it!! Thanks for keeping me sane. You’re a great team.

To my senior semester professors: Thanks for challenging me, and helping me be a better journalist. I also thank you for giving me confidence when I was feeling anxious or unsure of myself. You guys are the greatest!!

To my roommate: Thanks for putting up with all my crazy antics, my after class vent sessions, for always doing the dishes, and I’ll definitely miss having you as my roomie.

To the rest of the Gamecock Family: Go Gamecocks! My blood will always run garnet and black. No matter what you’re doing, have confidence (even when you’re unsure), stick to your principles (even when you’re under pressure), and believe in yourself (no matter what). I’ve enjoyed my time here, and hopefully I’ll go out and make you proud.

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