By Alex Pritchard '23
UNC ASHEVILLE IS PROUD OF ITS DIVERSE AND ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNI. WE ALSO TAKE PRIDE IN OFFERING OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT CURRENT STUDENTS WITH OUR ALUMNI. A NEW WAY THAT THE CAREER CENTER IS DOING THAT THIS YEAR IS THROUGH AN “EXECUTIVE-IN-RESIDENCE” SERIES, in partnership with university advancement, WHERE ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNI WHO ARE EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD COME TO CAMPUS TO SPEAK WITH CLASSES, AND CONNECT WITH STUDENTS AND FACULTY.
The first Executive-in-Residence visit took place on Sept. 28, 2022, with Jennifer Forsyth, an alumna from the class of 1990 who now serves as the deputy chief of investigations at the Wall Street Journal.
“When someone like Jennifer brings so much real-world experience to the classroom, students can't help but benefit educationally,” said Laura Meadows, assistant professor of mass communication at UNC Asheville. “They're learning things that will help them in their chosen field. Also, as importantly, I do think it's inspiring to be around someone who has succeeded in the profession. It shows students that it's possible.”
Forsyth, who works remotely for the Wall Street Journal from her home in Asheville, spoke to students in Basic Journalism, a class offered within the Mass Communication Department that is usually taken by underclassmen who are just starting a major or minor.
She offered advice on several aspects of conducting interviews, including in person vs. over the phone interviews, remembering to take notes even if you’re also taping the interview, and encouraging students not to hesitate in following up if you have further questions.
She also gave a brief overview of how it can be important for even non-business reporters to have “business fluency,” citing the fact that many stories can have business elements to them, and having a basic understanding can help you protect your credibility as a journalist.
Finally, she shared several steps students can take along the way to help set them up for success if they’re interested in going into a career as a journalist, such as taking basic economics or business classes, developing a basic understanding of Excel and/or Google Sheets, and learning how to shoot photos and videos from your phone.
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