Danielle Trusso - Spring 2006

A career in journalism was not something I aspired to, but months before my senior year of high school, the yearbook adviser kindly asked me to join the editing staff. While writing was my strong suit, I had much to learn about the world of reporting. Much has fueled my desire to work in the news business, but seeing my work in print for the first time gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment.

My curiosity and ambition have continued throughout the three years I have studied journalism and psychology at Ohio University. Working at the student newspaper, beginning in my freshman year, gave me much-needed practical experience, and covering education started my deep interest in our nation’s public education system.

Other jobs I have tried in college include telemarketing to request donations from alumni and being a resident assistant in one of the school’s only all-female dormitories. I plan to graduate in March 2007 and begin one of the most daunting searches in my life – for my first job.

Last summer I wrote for The Chautauquan Daily at Chautauqua Institution in western New York. As a reporter for the Daily, I had the opportunity to write feature stories and profiles of people with interests varying from medicine to Oriental carpets. The culture and beauty of the institution, coupled with being in my hometown region, gave me a great intern experience.

During fall of 2005, I learned of an internship opportunity in Washington, and the experience sounded too good to miss. This is my first time here, and so far I am intrigued and excited to learn about the busy lives people lead in the nation’s capital.

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