Thursday, May 6, 2010

Ending On A Good Note

I’ve really enjoyed my Advanced News and Feature Writing class this semester. It’s been educational and beneficial in many aspects. I’ve been able to gain valuable knowledge and insight into the journalism field, practice different styles of writing and broaden my reporting skills. The wide variety of stories has paid off and enabled me to enhance as a journalist. I feel better educated and prepared to be a full-time reporter and have more confidence in meeting deadlines, conducting interviews and tackling controversial topics.

I enjoyed covering the Women’s Resource Center because I found the events interesting and informative. They were saturated with rich culture, diversity and were powerful and eye-opening. I’ve always had a passion for women’s issues and enjoyed the opportunity to analyze and discuss them.

I’ve gained a lot of writing experience throughout college in my journalism classes and working for the campus newspaper, the Mirror. I enjoy newspaper writing and plan to do an internship at the Tribune in the fall. I’d also like to do more magazine writing in the future.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Taking Care of Business

Listen up ladies! It’s time to slip into your business attire, freshen up your resume, roll your shoulders back and hold your up head high. Confidence, intelligence and ambition are essential components to gaining rank and respect in the working world. You’ve got to dress for success, showcase your skills and prove to the business market that you’ve got the power and knowledge to soar as a female in the workforce, reach great heights in your career and know what it takes to run a successful, efficient and prosperous company.

On Tuesday four national distinguished female executives visited the Monfort College of Business for the Women in Business Forum to encourage and empower female students. They discussed how to network with reputable business leaders, market in a tough economy and establish a rich foundation for achievement.

The event was sponsored by UNC’s Students in Free Enterprise team. The WRC helped promote the event by passing out flyers and posting information on their website.

I think it’s crucial for UNC to continue to host important and informative events that are beneficial and motivating for women. The rise of economic empowerment among women has been one of the most extraordinary revolutions over the past five decades. Instead of being dependent on men, women are taking control over their own fiscal fate and choosing top professions.

According to the United States Department of Labor, in 2008 women accounted for 51 percent of all workers in the high-paying management, professional, and related occupations. It also states that women outnumbered men in such occupations as financial managers, human resource managers, education administrators, accountants and auditors and budget analysts.

These stats should encourage and inspire females everywhere! As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Thursday, March 11, 2010

WRC Primetime: Runway, Chocolate and Comedy

It’s been a busy and exciting month for the Women’s Resource Center with Eating Disorder Awareness Week, SAFE Week and Women’s History Month. There have been several educational and impactful events put on for women and by women. Some of the activities included an “Everyday Angels Fashion Show” that featured everyday women, flaunting and loving their natural, imperfect bodies. The center also sponsored a “Mind and Body Fair” that promoted healthy eating and fitness as well as an “Art Show & Chocolate Party” that presented body image illustrations and chocolate for attendees to indulge in GUILT-FREE!

My favorite event took place last Tuesday when popular stand- up comedian Tissa Hami, spoke at the University Center for Women’s History Month. Hami provided an entertaining and witty perspective on common Muslim misconceptions, her struggles as an ethnic minority and eye-opening journey as a comedian.

After the show I waited to have the last word with her. From the moment I shook her hand, I sensed her friendly, genuine spirit and was excited to hear what she had to say. She was personable, informative and I realized that we both share the same shameful addiction to ABC’s show “The Bachelor.” Who would have guessed?! I have a lot of respect for Tissa and was impressed with how she was able to relate to the UNC audience and address heavy issues in an entertaining and clever fashion. She presented a nice balance of amusing jokes and serious ideas that made her show enjoyable and engaging. Bravo!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Details,details, details!

I recently spent a day at the UNC Women's Resource Center where I was acquainted with staff members, learned new and helpful information and jotted down detailed observations about the the atmosphere, people and energy. The experience was enjoyable because everyone was very friendly and personable. The building was quiet and spacious, which allowed me to focus on my writing and take several photos.

For class, I wrote my "Day in the Life" story on the center and what it has to offer students. The biggest challenge I experienced while organizing my story was selecting details that were most pertinent. I love being descriptive when I write and can sometimes get a little carried away...

My story outline was beneficial because it gave me a clearer sense of what key elements to introduce to my readers. My goal was to familiarize them with my beat and allow them to grasp what the center looks like/represents without having to step foot in the building.

I hope that's what I accomplished!

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Ladies time!

Welcome to the Ladies Room! I’m excited to dive into this new blogging opportunity and tackle pressing, diverse issues that women in our world face. For my Advance News and Feature Writing class, I’m covering The Women’s Resource Center and will be attending meetings and events that I hope will spark interesting and insightful posts.

From this experience, I hope to broaden my knowledge about women’s rights, history, culture, power, and health. Women need to be informed about underlying issues that affect their everyday lives. The more educated women are about their gender, the more power they’ll have in their lives. Women can overcome their fears and struggles through knowledge, critique and action.

I hope to sharpen my reporting skills and pursue complex issues that will trigger reaction and critical thinking. The assignments in this class will require a lot of time and energy. I’m ready for the challenge and prepared to put my journalism skills to the test!

I’ve never had a blog before but I think that it’ll be a good opportunity to express my thoughts about my beat. I want to report as well as reflect on issues and events. I think that my blog will be a helpful tool in doing so.