Speak Out
Taylor Smith
George Buchanan Award
 Dr.
Ken Campbell on Taylor's accomplishments:
The George
Buchanan Award is the second oldest award given by the
School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
It is given in memory
of George "Buch" Buchanan, an editor and publisher of The
Columbia Record, who was a legend among state reporters. He also
served as dean of the School of Journalism from 1955-1965.
Taylor Smith was the president of our SPJ (Society of Professional
Journalists) campus chapter in 2006-2007 when it received the South Outstanding
Campus Chapter Award for Region 3. That includes Georgia, Alabama, Florida
and South Carolina.
Taylor has worked for the Business Desk of the State
Newspaper and is currently a staff member of the award-winning
Carolina Reporter, our practicum newspaper.
Read more
Taylor Speaks
Out:
Why did you choose USC?
When I visited USC, months before my high school
graduation, I received such a warm reception from
faculty and staff I immediately knew this was the
place to call home for next four years.
Why print journalism?
Context-driven, detail-oriented journalism is
essential to a functioning democracy. I always wanted
to be a cog in the machinery of our republic and I
could think of no better place than the Fourth Estate.
Favorite/most beneficial class?
My favorite class at USC was Professor Randy
Covington’s journalism ethics course. Spirited debate
frequently ensued as the class tried to solve the most
precarious scenarios for journalists. The class was
difficult but enhanced my critical thinking ability
as I prepared to enter the Carolina Reporter capstone
sequence.
What will you miss most about college?
Homework – just kidding. I will most definitely miss
the relaxed learning environment that college
provides. USC is unique being able to maintain that
environment amid a busy state capital.
And you won't miss?
I won’t miss trying to park within a six-block radius
of my next class.
What are you really passionate about?
I am very passionate about developing an informed
citizenry here in the United States. Journalists play
an integral part in this and too often drop the ball
in favor of expedient, careless journalism that does
more to entertain than educate.
Has there been a "defining moment" or
significant event in your college experience?
As a freshman staff writer for the Gamecock newspaper,
I reported on the lack of football ticket access for
undergraduates in comparison to graduate students. The
piece was only pulled together minutes before deadline
but somehow managed to win a South Carolina Press
Association Award.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to work as a journalist for a few years and
then enter law school to study for a career as a First
Amendment attorney who represents journalists.
Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for other
students in your major?
Do not be discouraged by news of the industry.
Newspapers are not dying. They may no longer be
published on newsprint but there will always be a need
for the type of journalism that earns Pulitzers.
Any parting words or something you'd like to say
to your SJMC family, or anyone else, before you head out the
door?
It has been a remarkable ride here at USC. I have
enjoyed every moment of it and wish all the faculty
good luck. I owe them all my future successes and
education during this wonderful time of my life.
Read the other Outstanding Senior comments:
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