Alumni Journalists Share Insider Advice with Emerson Students

Several noted Emerson College journalist alumni offered students a unique look into their journeys from college to the heights of their careers at a luncheon and panel in the SPC/Black Box on October 16.

WCVB Channel 5 news anchor Maria Stephanos ’88, MA ’93, kicked off the conversation, moderated by Senior Executive-in-Resident and Journalism Department Chair Lu Ann Reeb, by reminiscing about her time working at WERS.

“[T]hey had the Associated Press wire coming in, I would run to get it, read the news, and I talked so fast – it was ridiculous,” Stephanos said. “But I was talking about news, journalism, and stories that really mattered to our communities. I could not believe I was doing that at this school.”

Stephanos expressed her gratitude to Emerson for encouraging her to be herself.

“This was a place that allowed me to just be weird… and to tell beautiful stories,” said Stephanos. “I was attracted to the lights, to production, and when I got here, I learned everything I could about what happens behind the scenes and this is how I got to where I am today.”

Meghan Keane ’10, founder and managing producer of NPR’s Life Kit podcast, and Boston Globe Business Producer Dana Gerber ’22, echoed similar sentiments about Emerson opportunities.

“You don’t have to wait [for permission] to do something,” said Keane. “I didn’t wait for someone to tell me to report a story, try something new, or practice my writing. I was heavily involved in EIV News and WERS at Emerson. Get hands-on experience as early as possible, and keep practicing.”

Gerber emphasized the importance of initiative. 

“Don’t wait for anyone to tell you what is on the table for you to do. Most good editors will want you to throw out outlandish ideas and rein you in if necessary,” said Gerber. “A really good mindset at Emerson is to go be professional now.”

Keane also highlighted the value of taking risks and sharing ideas—qualities she looks for in her team.

“Throwing ideas at the wall and having the resilience to say, ‘This might not work, but we are going to try it.’ – people notice that,” Keane said. “Now, as a manager, those are the people who I like to hire – the ones who can bring me really good ideas and aren’t afraid to fail or try different things.”

She also introduced her new book, A Party of One: Be Your Own Best Life Partner, which was inspired by her own NPR Life Kit episode on singleness.

“It’s a self-help book that’s part research, part evidence-based mental health techniques, part memoir for loving your own company,” said Keane. “It’s an extension of what I do at NPR, which is service journalism.”

CNN contributing writer and founder of Urban Watch Magazine Demi Vitkute ’16 elaborated on the importance of being both a self-starter and adaptable.

“You have to think outside of the box, not just as a reporter but also understand the industry from within, and grasp the business side as well,” said Vitkute. “What I learned after going to journalism school is that we – and you – are the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of journalism and develop new business models. There is a lot of change happening [in the industry], but you have to adapt to it and be flexible.”

Norman Oliver ’16, editorial producer at CBS News, underscored the value of building relationships, even through casual interactions.

“Always talk to people. It can be holding the door for someone or striking  up a conv[ersation] while walking into the library or waiting for your coffee at work,” said Oliver. “As a journalist, whether it’s a source, a PR contact, a colleague, or a hiring manager, it’s all about relationships and keeping those active. You never know when you are going to need someone’s help or when someone might offer you a job opportunity.” 

Stephanos wrapped up the panel with an encouraging message for the students.

“Don’t ever believe you can’t do it,” she said.  “I promise you, as long as I’m breathing, you will do it.”