Voting has begun!
CLICK HERE FOR THE BALLOT
Voting is open until Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. Results will be announced the same day at 6 p.m. via an all class email.
Please select only ONE candidate in each category. You need not vote in each category if you do not wish to do so.
Each J-school student is eligible to cast one ballot for the elections.
While the votes will be kept confidential, we need you to fill in your name and e-mail to ensure the integrity of the ballot.
All ballots are final – no changes are allowed. PLEASE FILL IN CAREFULLY
and DOUBLE-CHECK BEFORE YOU SUBMIT!
Last Name
First Name
E-mail address
Voting open until 4 p.m. 09/11/24
The Election results will be announced on Wednesday 09/11/24 at 6 p.m. via an all class email.
BELOW ARE THE CANDIDATES’ PITCHES FOR THE 2024-25 SPJ BOARD
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CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES FOR VICE PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES FOR SPEAKERS DIRECTOR
CANDIDATES FOR STUDENT LIFE
Meet the officers who ran unopposed:
UNIVERSITY SENATOR
FILM/DOC COORDINATOR
COMMUNITY SERVICE CHAIR
COMP-SCI REPRESENTATIVE
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CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT
• SUBHANJANA DAS, M.S. Full-time
SEE MY VIDEO
past education: Bachelors in English Literature
qualifications: I have had scattered experience of every responsibility this role entails throughout my high school, college, and professional years of working. But some I am especially confident about are communicating with a team, filling in when someone couldn’t, and making sure everyone’s heard and on the same page. My friends and past colleagues would vouch for my unqualified therapeutic skills. I’m approachable, am a good listener, and as in my journalism, not only care about but highly value diverse perspectives and ideas.
why vote for me: I joined CJS with the ambition to make the most of this experience, and I believe that’s a sentiment many of us share. As your representative, I would prioritize programming, resources and opportunities that speak to our needs, especially those that might otherwise be out of reach. My plans include hosting speakers, filmmakers, and journalists from diverse backgrounds and beats, along with fun events to foster connections beyond our cohort and even the J-School. I’m eager to hear your ideas on how we can make the most of our time and build a community that reflects all of us.
I understand the challenges of settling in and the need for welfare initiatives. I am determined to implement programs that provide the support we all need to survive 12 hour days. Last but not the least, I’m inspired by CJS’ students’ legacy of impactful journalism and will ensure we have the resources to continue doing work that leaves a mark. (I’ll also aim to have snacks at SPJ events.)
• ALEX FOSTER, M.S. Full-time
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past education: Oxford University, 2023 – BA English Lit // wrote my undergraduate theses on radio plays and metatheatre
qualifications: Journalist at Private Eye – investigated politicians/candidates/media and did way too many comment requests/phone calls/emails, so I know how to be annoying and press people for the answers and changes you guys want. Oxford Union Press Director – I got sent way too many comment requests by journalists, so I also know the tricks people use to avoid giving in to valid demands! College Welfare Officer – DEI trained. Supported students through the pandemic, and liaised with college administrations to find the best solutions for the community. I know how annoying it is not to be listened to as a student! I also love having chats over coffee so if you need someone to listen to, I’m here :). Oxford Drama Soc VP – Working with the Prez and delegating properly to get the best results (and also developing a love of theater/re, feel free to ask). International Student – Getting an F1 visa was difficult, and life as a freelancer is literally harder with it!
why vote for me: Hi I’m Alex (he/they) and I want to Foster a better community! I’m friendly, ginger, and occasionally funny 🙂 I’ve got 3 big ideas that I’ve got space to talk about here:
1) CONNECTING W/ COMMUNITY: CJS needs to connect up with the wider Columbia community – atm it all feels localised to Pulitzer. In light of the campus protests last year, establishing connections with the Spec, WKCR, and other students is necessary!!
2) INTERNATIONAL REPS: We need a couple specialised events for visa students so we all graduate on a level playing field internships/extra experience-wise = will institute 2 international students reps on the SPJ board.
3) WELFARE: we’re all told CJS is very stressful, but not told about college-run initiatives to mitigate that stress. = Welfare rep on SPJ + regular ‘take a break’ events + Prez drop-in sessions to vent, be listened to, and see how we’re doing.
I’ll also pledge that as an ex-theatre kid/failed stand-up comedian, I’ll write a good grad speech x
• CAROLINE MCCARTHY, M.S. Full-Time
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past education: •Manhattan College, Bachelor’s Degree in Communication with a concentration in Journalism
qualifications: •Sportswriter/Digital Producer at the New York Post. Published 100+ articles on the NYP website, all pertaining to sports and sports entertainment.
•President of the Pen and Sword honor society, the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society at Manhattan College. Led meetings, chaired scholarly seminars and organized the annual secret midnight ceremony/initiation events.
•Managing editor and sports editor of the Manhattan College Quadrangle. Facilitated relationships between faculty/staff and student reporters, served as a liaison for the sports information desk and handled threats of legal action after two (factual) investigations.
•Editor in Chief, LOTUS magazine. Met weekly with editors to ensure deadlines were being met and writers/artists/photographers felt supported. Oversaw production and content of magazine
•Team Coordinator, Manhattan College Dance Team. Advocate for the student athlete experience to higher administration and organize a team of 20 people.
why vote for me: As seen in my experience listed above, as well as other organizations I led and chaired, I am well versed in handling relationships between a university administration and students. My experience is not just a testament to my ability to lead, but also that my colleagues and classmates trust in me to do so with their best interest at heart. I was able to host 20+ student events, multiple with the largest turnout in their program’s history. At the Quad, I saw a lack of enthusiasm for sports reporting. So, I organized a first of its kind Q&A session with WSJ sportswriter Jared Diamond. At LOTUS magazine I noticed how many emerging student designers owned their own labels and co-chaired the first ever LOTUS fashion show to showcase them. At a school of only 3,000 undergrads, 500 were in attendance. I have extensive experience managing committees that strengthen the student experience, both in and outside of journalism. I would be thrilled to continue doing so for the J-School.
• ANDREW MERCEIN, M.S. Part-time
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past education: BA, International Political Economy, Fordham University (2022)
qualifications: I have occupied various leadership positions in education and extracurriculars dating back to my youth. I taught elementary school in 2022-23, which may not seem directly applicable, but it taught me to be patient and attentive to other people’s concerns (which is generally easier with adults- but not always, unfortunately). In my role at Mental Health Television Network, I occupy a leadership position (Producer), coordinating the operations of 4-12 people at any given time, depending whether we are in production or not. I also serve as liaison for MHTN’s creative team and the various people we interact with, so I’m comfortable representing an organization.
why vote for me: Any other qualifications notwithstanding, my classmates should elect me to this position because I am 100% dedicated to fostering a sense of unity and togetherness in our class. I know how important it is to people’s mental and emotional well being to be a part of a strong, caring community network, and I want to help create an environment where we have each other’s backs, no matter what. Our diversity is our strength, and despite all coming from different backgrounds, we find ourselves here now in the pursuit of the same goal. That’s a beautiful thing. For all of our flaws, human beings are wonderful creatures, and when we feel safe, seen for who we are, and valued as individuals, there is no limit to what we can achieve. It is my dream to make that a reality for this class, and I’ll do whatever is required of me to make it so.
• NICHOLE WHITELEY, M.S. Full-time
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past education: Bachelor of communication, media and culture from Brigham Young University–Hawaii
qualifications: In high school I was a member of council, which was a wonderful experience, but it pales in comparison to the service I provided to my peers as an undergrad. At my university I was president of the Embody Love Club. This club was formed by Kylee Denison, a coworker of mine at the student magazine. The inspiration came from a story I pitched about the lack of mental health resources available to students on campus and in the community. Kylee joined me working on what turned into an investigative article exposing the unmet mental health needs of students, specifically international students since the university was their only health resource. The club focused on educating students about mental health and providing support and resources. After Kylee graduated I took over as president of the club. I organized speakers, trainings, relaxation and bonding activities for the students. As class president at Columbia, I will ensure the student’s needs are met so they can follow their dreams.
why vote for me: We are all here at Columbia to further our careers and one day soon find our own version of success. We came to this university specifically to create connections with bright-minded people and to learn from the experts. As president of the Columbia Journalism Class of 2025, I will not let any of us lose sight of why we came here. I promise to learn what each of you hope for your future, and to hold activities and workshops to bring you one step closer. We will explore the city and laugh together, but at the top of my priority list is ensuring each student’s voice is heard so we can tell the stories of overlooked voices in the community. As president I will welcome suggestions from everyone for activities, organize events for students to meet influential journalists, prioritize community outreach and ensure each student feels they have a place here at Columbia. I am so excited to work with all of you as peers, friends, future coworkers and hopefully president of this year’s class!
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CANDIDATES FOR VICE PRESIDENT
• MEGHA GUPTA, M.S. Full-time
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past education: University of California, Los Angeles * BA in Global Studies * Columbia University * MS in Journalism * MIA
qualifications: I’ve served in a few leadership roles, whether in student government or for my undergrad newspaper, but I’ll always be a student first, and I’d love to use my past experiences as a student with concerns to implement initiatives that will be beneficial to US as a cohort. Working in the past with my university’s student government, I know a thing or two about advocating on your behalf – which usually means badgering our university boards about student concerns 😉 I am a very vocal and outspoken person who isn’t afraid to voice her opinion, and I want to be able to speak out on our behalf! While I might not have nearly as much journalism experience as so many others in our cohort, I’d love to take what I’ve learned as a student journalist to work towards translating our academic excellence at the J school to hands on journalism in NYC!
why vote for me: Hey future journalists! I’m Megha, and I would love to serve as your next Veep 😉 I’m excited to be learning alongside all you amazingly talented people, and I’d love the chance to make this year full of opportunity, inclusion, and fun! I know this year is stressful, and I want to emphasize academic wellbeing. I’d love to serve as a link between the student body and the deans – leftys, I’ve heard you, and I WILL be working towards getting lefty friendly desks 😉 I think it would be great to have “Study Debriefs” as an open forum to discuss what SPJ can do for YOU. I’d love to initiate “Mind Matters” events for you all to enjoy a safe space in between classes if you ever need a breather. Homesickness is very real – trust me, I feel it all the time – so looking out for each other is super important! I’m tall (5’11 !!) so I’m hard to miss, but you can always find me around campus if you ever need a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand, or just want to vibe on campus <33 Cheers, M
• BONNIE SUEN, M.S. Full-time
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past education: B.A. at Stanford class of 2008
qualifications:
am running for Vice President of our Student Government. With over 15 years of experience in the finance and tech industries, I’ve had the privilege of leading teams to achieve significant milestones, including launching products, raising over $10 billion in funds, and successfully managing private equity investments that generated strong returns. Setting ambitious goals, executing them, and collaborating with various stakeholders has been a core part of my career. In addition to my professional achievements, I’ve also been deeply involved in building culture and organizing events, which has given me a strong understanding of teamwork and community.
why vote for me: I bring a wealth of experience in leadership, goal-setting, and collaboration. I will bring this experience to the student government, ensuring we set clear goals, follow through on them, and make a positive impact on our school community. I’m passionate about addressing the issues that matter most to us and fostering an environment where everyone’s voice is heard. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and work alongside all of you to make our school even better. Thank you for your support!
• CHI VO, Data Degree
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past education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design (Hons) at DJCAD, University of Dundee
qualifications: I was president of my college’s student body during my undergraduate studies and represented more than 1,200 students, both from undergraduate and postgraduate studies. My team and I launched the first meditation room on campus and an anonymous online feedback box to help students log complaints. Furthermore, I worked collaboratively with the school’s administration team and students to develop virtual delivery of the Art school curriculum during COVID. Through this collaboration, I was chosen to be the first student to speak at the United Kingdom’s Art Education Conference (CHEAD). As your vice president, I will utilize my experience to be a friendly face, assist in voicing your needs, and boost the organization of events.
why vote for me: Why journalism? Why Columbia? As your vice president, I want to hear your stories. I’m passionate about assisting students to make the most of their studying experience. The J-School should be an inclusive space to learn, investigate, and make friends. Representation is important to me, ensuring that everyone’s interests, backgrounds and topics are respected, and covered. I want to ensure that the Presidency team delivers our board’s promises to you. Let’s make this studying experience memorable together!
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CANDIDATES FOR SPEAKER’S DIRECTOR
• REENO HASHIMOTO, M.S. Full-Time
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past education: Brown University, Bachelor of Arts in Literary Arts with Honors 4.00/4.00 GPA, magna cum laude * Relevant coursework: Computing Foundations Data
qualifications: During my senior year at Brown University, I served as Co-Director of Fashion@Brown’s Industry Programming Team. I averaged 40 weekly hours planning, briefing, organizing, and executing high-level interviews for our annual Distinguished Speaker Series, which is, in a nutshell, an occasion for Brown and RISD students to hear from and converse with the world’s leading fashion professionals including Diane von Furstenberg (whom I interviewed), Wes Gordon, Kouka Webb, Brooke Shields, and Tina Leung. While continuing to contact potential talent through more traditional networking platforms such as LinkedIn, alumni directories, and IMDb, I proactively identified emerging fashion talent on TikTok and Instagram to ensure our line-up captured the zeitgeist.
why vote for me: I’m committed to inviting/presenting talks/lectures by guest speakers who might not otherwise be invited to the J-School, speakers who represent a breadth of perspectives, not simply mainstream media’s prevailing view. In our first weeks at the J-School, I’ve felt disappointed by the singularity of opinions presented in/out of the classroom. Columbia is dedicated to teaching students how to think and not what to think, so it is essential that we prioritize intellectual diversity. Moreover, while I acknowledge that the world desperately needs sharp investigative reporters covering politics, civil unrest, etc., there is also a huge swath of talented journalists who wish to interview authors/actresses/other creatives, or produce nature documentaries à la David Attenborough. Wherever our careers lead us, we need tools/knowledge/contacts that enable us to pivot, and that starts with being exposed to as many different alumni/guest speakers/employers as possible during our time here.
• MADELINE REILLY, M.S. Full-time
past education: Sarah Lawrence College
qualifications: In my undergraduate studies, I was the Chair of the Committee of Student Life and the Student Representative on the Administrative Committee. On Both committees, I actually brought what students wanted to the table and I think that’s essential for this role.
why vote for me: There are so many facets to Journalism and I want to represent a wide range of people’s and student’s needs we are all here for different reasons and it will serve us well to meet with other people who will help shape our path after we graduate. There is more to being a Journalist than TV and writing.
•ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL, M.S. Full-time
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past education: BA, Hamilton College – Interdisciplinary Social Movements & Community Organizing
qualifications: Throughout my work, I’ve been deeply invested in the subjects and traits that make for creating meaningful speaking and networking opportunities. In my college interdisciplinary major, I was tasked with putting unique perspectives into conversation with one another. In and out of the classroom, I’ve studied how people build mutually beneficial coalitions together. I’ve served in and covered student government, and worked in nonprofits and government. Many of my roles have required meeting facilitation and event planning. As a journalist, I’ve engaged with media trends and criticism via reading publications like the Columbia Journalism Review, experimentation as editor-in-chief of the Monitor, and writing about media issues. My own reporting usually has an investigative bent. I’d leverage my experience in project management for an organization, background in a wide range of fields, and education in combining a variety of perspectives to develop engaging programming for the school.
why vote for me: Journalism was a choice those in my life concerned with financial stability, and even journalists themselves, advised against. It’s no secret that our field is changing. Where many see doom, I see opportunity. As Speakers Director, I will steadfastly foster the kind of reflective, interdisciplinary, and even difficult discussions necessary to chart our shared path forward. While my goal isn’t to ruffle feathers, like any good accountability journalist I’d feel derelict in my duty to facilitate important discussions if I don’t. Many of you have approached me about my questions during classwide sessions. This role, in partnership with you, is a way to ask bigger ones. What is objectivity, and is it possible? What role might nonprofits, unions, and worker cooperatives have in journalism’s future? How do we fairly cover war crimes, genocide, and resistance to them? What does it mean to build authentic relationships with our audiences? How do we fight for democratic principles through and outside of our work? Whose voices have been prioritized, or left out of, these conversations? And perpetually, as if I were still that five-year-old interrogating my parents: “why?” Because it’s on us to build the future of our sacred work.
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CANDIDATES FOR STUDENT LIFE CHAIR
• APOOVA CHANGEDIA, M.S. Full-time
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past education: •High-school in India. •Socially-Engaged Design Graduate from the Art Institute of Chicago. •Mental Health First Aid. •Non-Violent Communication.
qualifications: I have a background in organizing events and fostering engagement, having led national mental health awareness campaigns on national radio stations and led vocal performance workshops to help participants understand themselves through their bodies. My experience in alternative education through Montessori and Waldorf methods, as well as hands-on, student-led learning, has given me the ability to design activities that are both educational and playful. My counseling background provides insight into student needs beyond the academic lens, allowing me to create inclusive spaces for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am multilingual and have also lived in intentional communities across the west coast of the US that adopt various experiments in engagement, communication and most importantly – connection. That is my drive – to create a welcoming, enriching atmosphere where students can unwind and, above all, find connection.
why vote for me: A lot of education happens outside of the classroom. Graduates tend to have less support when it comes to life beyond academics and professional networking. Given the strong diverse student body here, it is an amazing opportunity for students to engage in intentional methods that allow them to learn from each other. Programming should not be limited to undergrads and, in fact, be more curated, if anything, for graduate students. Given the limited term, I am here to bring in activities specific to diverse cultures, and encourage health – the most neglected aspect of college – mental and physical. There isn’t a better time to maximize learning than now, where a rich exchange can happen in between students from around the world, so I would like to bring in events that allow people to play sports, board games they have not played for, watch movies they otherwise wouldn’t watch, dance to music that would otherwise be foreign to people, and image new ways to foster belonging and play.
• LAINY JERNIDIER, M.S. Full-time
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past education: Masters degree in communications and Marketing
qualifications: II am the friend in the group chat that organizes the trip. More seriously,In my Undergrad studies and my jobs I used to organize little events to celebrate special days, it always went well. (One example is breakfast week ). I am thinking about having different events that would bring comfort to all the communities in the school.
why vote for me: I value mental health and joy a lot. I will try to make smiling and breathing possible between coffees and assignments.
I am open to suggestions of what would made the cohort feel good.
Also I am a Pisces so I do care. We are all in this together (not to quote High School Musical).
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YOUR COMMUNITY SERVICE CHAIR (ran unoppsed)
• AUGOSTINA MALLOUS, M.S. Full-time
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past education: B.A. in Journalism – Hofstra University
qualifications: I have a strong background in community service, starting from a young age when I organized school supply drives and continued through my work as Miss New Jersey. I’ve led numerous initiatives, including clothing and food drives, care packages for nursing homes, and teaching dance to underprivileged children. My passion for service deepened in college, where I spearheaded the “Stop the Traffic” campaign, collaborating with survivors to raise awareness about human trafficking and advocating for protective legislation. I’ve also partnered with organizations like the NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking, raisied over $50,000 in scholarships for women, and I continue to be actively involved in awareness campaigns, self-defense classes for at-risk youth, and supporting local women’s shelters. My dedication to service has been recognized with the Presidential Volunteer Gold Service Award.
why vote for me: I have a genuine passion for service and a strong track record of organizing impactful projects. From leading service campaigns to raising funds for scholarships, I’ve always tried to focus on making a real difference. I’m committed to using my experience to help our class engage in meaningful service that benefits both our school and our surrounding community. I’m ready to work collaboratively to ensure our efforts are thoughtful, effective, and aligned with our shared values!
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YOUR UNIVERSITY SENATOR (ran unopposed)
• ALEX ROUHANDEH, M.A Student
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past education: Syracuse University, BA
qualifications: As an undergraduate at Syracuse University, I served on the University Senate where I advocated for student positions, notably as protests against institutional racism were dividing the school. Furthermore, I spent over two years covering Congress for Newsweek, focusing on the Senate. This has afforded me knowledge of how such a body operates and the ways in which committee work and coalition building influence outcomes.
why vote for me: My classmates should elect me to this position because I bring the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed. In the role, one is placed on equal footing with faculty and must advocate for the interests of students while maintaining cordial relationships. It takes about a year to understand Senate dynamics. Given that most J-School programs last a year, anyone entering this position is at a bit of a disadvantage compared to those in the Senate who serve multi-year terms. Because I have served in this type of role before, I will not experience the same degree of uneasiness as one occupying this job for the first time. I should be able to get to work fast and will establish objectives that can be carried out by the end of my term. As a former Congressional Correspondent, I’ve seen how power is exercised. I will utilize this knowledge to serve as an effective senator who can support the Journalism School in extending its influence and reach within Columbia.
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YOUR APPOINTED WEB MASTER (ran unopposed)
• BLYTHE DEGIA, M.S. Full-time
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past education: Double major in political science and broadcast journalism from Syracuse University
qualifications: In undergrad, I was involved in a club where I ran social media and PR for a magazine on campus. Additionally, I did website work for an NPR affiliate in Syracuse.
why vote for me: I am really passionate about journalism and want to ensure that this board will benefit every student. I want to make sure we host events to get everyone together and excited about the year ahead!
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YOUR APPOINTED FILM | DOC COORDINATOR (ran unopposed)
• MASON LEIGH, M.S. Full-time
past education: Columbia U, Georgetown U, Academic Magnet High School, First Scots Kindergarten (had to repeat a year)
qualifications: As Dante once said, “the secret to getting things done: is to act.” And, this is precisely my philosophy in seeking this position. Hopefully none of you can relate, but I have never really been the best or the most skilled at any one particular thing in my life. (Currently getting out the tiny violin for myself lol) However, I have always believed that hard work beats natural talent every single time — and that is how I have made it through my life and to Columbia. Like all of you, this is not an educational opportunity that I take lightly, and I have high hopes for training and experiences we will encounter here. Ergo to achieve this end, I offer you my endless passion, creativity, and execution to ensure that you get everything you want and need out of this year. To whom much is given, much is expected — and I will always deliver to you with hard work and persistence.
why vote for me: Hello dearest classmates! All of us were admitted last spring because Columbia saw something in each of us — our passion, our persistence, and our potential. In meeting many of you, it is evident to me that we are much more than students. We are storytellers, creators, and change makers who are driving society’s conversations every day. During our time here, I will be an unwavering advocate for everything you want and deserve from this experience. Specifically, my priorities are connecting students to job opportunities and placement, creating source databases for beats, and hosting social events. Foremost, I am committed to job placement for our class through hosting increased alumni networking events, freelance boards to find work, a peer referral network, and a portfolio review program. Yet as you all know, journalism is much more than a paycheck — it is a calling. So, let’s embrace the opportunities of this year with courage, knowing that we can shape the world of tomorrow.
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YOUR APPOINTED COMP-SCI REPRESENTATIVE (ran unopposed)
• ANNABELLE JIANG, CompSci Dual Degree
past education: Bachelor of Science in CS at UNC Chapel Hill
qualifications: During my undergraduate studies, I held several positions in various clubs. I was on the director board for HackNC for two years. HackNC is the largest hackathon in the southeastern United States, where I led the graphic team to create HackNC’s logo, t-shirt, website, swags, and social media posts. I worked with the board members to create an enjoyable and inclusive hacking experience for over 500 HackNC participants. We receive feedback from participants each year and look for new ways to enhance their experiences. I developed new ideas with my team to promote the hackathon more formally and professionally by redesigning the website with the development team and ideas for consistent branding for HackNC.
why vote for me: I aim for everyone’s experience at Columbia Journalism School to be meaningful and impactful, especially those of the dual MS community. Since the dual MS cohort consists of only five students and we are part of both schools, I want to form a strong bond between the dual MS students and the rest of the CJS community. My goal is to make everyone feel included and encourage collaboration. Brainstorm compelling projects and ideas for the CJS community, working with my classmates to make an impact. For the past two weeks, I have noticed that communication could have been more apparent to the dual MS program students, including course registration, career services, and welcome events. As a student, I contacted both schools’ faculty with questions raised in the dual MS community to find a solution. With these ideas and improvements in mind, I can support the dual MS community and be qualified for the dual Computer Science Representative role for the dual MS students in SPJ.