Core 16 Competencies

1. Understand and apply the First Amendment principles and the law appropriate to professional practice
Through my investigative reporting at U.S. News & World Report, HU News Service and Fragment Media Group  I have ensured that my work upholds the First Amendment by providing accurate, fair and unbiased reporting while navigating media law and ethical considerations.

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2. Demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications
My course multimedia history taught me the importance of investigative reporting and the media's moral responsibility to report accurate and timely news to the public regarding public policy and awareness. This duty holds government and private institutions accountable. 

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3. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of groups in a global society in relation to communications
Covering health and social justice topics, I have highlighted issues affecting marginalized communities, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in my reporting.

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4. Understand concepts and apply theories in the use of and presentations of images and information
Utilizing tools like Adobe InDesign and Premiere Pro, I have designed visually engaging content that effectively communicates complex health information to a broad audience.

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5. Work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness, and diversity
My commitment to meticulous fact-checking and responsible reporting ensures my stories reflect the truth while respecting the voices and experiences of the communities I cover; especially in health science journalism, I scrutinize every piece of information through numerous expert sources to instill a positive rapport of the health-related information for my audience. 

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6. Think critically, creatively, and independently
As a journalist, I analyze trends, synthesize data, and craft compelling narratives that engage audiences while maintaining journalistic integrity. I target the most relevant studies and published data that would be in the interest of public knowledge. 

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7. Conduct research and evaluate information by method appropriate to the communications profession in which they will work
My fellowship at MIT taught me to even fact-check my primary and expert sources and to not take them at face value.  Working in health journalism requires me to critically assess medical studies, interview experts, and cross-reference credible sources to produce well-researched and informative articles.

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8. Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communication professions, audiences, and purposes they serve
Interning with different publications throughout my matriculation provided experience in adapting my writing style to cater to that publication's house style while maintaining clarity and impact.

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9. Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate styles, and grammatical correctness
My experience with HU News Service and my course adv. multimedia storytelling taught me to meticulously edit my own work and provide constructive feedback to colleagues to uphold journalistic standards.

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10. Apply basic numerical and statistical concepts
My experience with MIT, multimedia storytelling and public affairs reporting taught me how to interpret statistical data and research findings, presenting them in accessible ways for readers.

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11. Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work
I have utilized various digital tools, including SEMrush for SEO optimization and social media analytics, to track audience engagement and enhance content visibility.

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12. Understand and demonstrate the ethical use of digital communication
Working with multiple online publications I refined my digital reporting skills allowing me to identify supporting multimedia aspects that may enhance a written story. By ensuring proper attribution, respecting copyright laws, and prioritizing accurate information, I adhere to ethical digital communication practices in my reporting and online engagement.

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13. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship
My ability to identify trending topics and create compelling content has allowed me to contribute innovative story ideas and strategies in my editorial roles with HU News Service, 101 Magazine and in multiple courses like multimedia storytelling and public affairs reporting. 

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14. Demonstrate an awareness of hearing, language and speech disorders, and other physical abilities and disabilities & their accommodations
In my writing, I strive to be inclusive and considerate of diverse audiences by using accessible language and ensuring my content is available in multiple formats.

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15. Apply the principles of effective oral/interpersonal communications in a variety of professional contexts
Whether interviewing experts, collaborating with editorial teams, or engaging with readers online, I effectively communicate complex information in a clear and engaging manner so as to not confuse or overwhelm readers; especially when conveying complex data and analysis related to health science. 

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16. Demonstrate media literacy with a critical understanding of messages in mediated communication
Through my journalism training, I critically assess media messages, recognize biases, and ensure that my reporting upholds integrity and factual accuracy.