Get to know some of our College 51吃瓜 students! Diamond Steward-Hutton is a Class of 2025 journalism major.
How did you become interested in journalism?
In high school I really liked media and writing, but I did not think I could turn that into a career. I ended up visiting Richmond Studio and realized that my hobbies in high school could be a reality. I was able to see and talk to students who were a part of Good Morning Illini, and I saw the newsroom and realized I wanted to do journalism. I changed my major to journalism, and I have loved it ever since.鈥�
What faculty member has stood out to you the most?
Colleen King, my professor for JOUR 313: Writing for Television & Streaming News. I went into this class without knowing anything about broadcasting. I was struggling and Colleen was always able to help me. She takes time with her students and has worked with me through Good Morning Illini. She always takes time for one-on-one work with students which is something I really appreciate. I understand why she is so respected in the industry, and it is because she cares about her students.
How did you start at Good Morning Illini?
I started my broadcasting position at Good Morning Illini by volunteering at Richmond Studio. I would go to the studio on Fridays and ask Ken Erdey, instructor and technical coordinator for Richmond Studio, if I could do a story, and he has never turned me away. I kept putting my best foot forward and I was able to get on Good Morning Illini. The show has allowed me to practice broadcasting skills in a low-pressure environment and to make mistakes and learn from them.
What experiences have you gained by being an Ebert Fellow?
Through the Ebert Fellow program, I have a mentor, Michael Phillips, a film critic from the Chicago Tribune. Michael gives us a lot of wisdom and advice through this program; he taught us to follow our hearts and to stick with what we love. Through this program, I was also able to attend the True/False Film Festival for documentaries. I love movies so this was a great opportunity to mix my love of movies with my passion for journalism.
How does your cultural background influence your role as a journalist?聽
UI7 Newsroom produces a show called U Know Illinois, which really highlights the Black community. I love to incorporate my Black culture into my work. Media has already affected us, and I want to change the script and represent the Black community on air.
How has the University of Illinois prepared you for your future?
Being a journalism major taught me to put my best foot forward and know even if you fail you can try again. Through my experiences in journalism at Illinois I was able to learn how to work in a professional environment. The UI7 Newsroom and Richmond Studio have shown me what being a journalist is really like.
鈥�Interview by Eva Franklin Morris, New Voices Intern
Share on social