Mariah Baylor, Hampton University, Class of 2013 — “I am striving to become a complete multimedia journalist. I am taking steps toward this goal through writing for the sports section of my school’s newspaper, The Hampton Script, and hosting my school’s television show, The View from Hampton U. I intend to make the most of my opportunities at the Virginian-Pilot to build a strong foundation for a successful career in journalism.”
Nick Creegan, University at Albany, Class of 2013 — “I’m what you would call a “sports junkie.” If two people I know are having a debate about a sports topic, they know who to approach: me. I watch and analyze games, but most importantly I try to create stories that can bring these games to life. As a digital journalist, I have executed that with my blogs and at my college TV and radio stations. My dream has always been to showcase my talents. My placement at ESPN will allow me to do that. I’m excited about this opportunity to grow as a journalist and to become great.”
Gary Cotton, Missouri School of Journalism, Class of 2012–”Multimedia journalists have been called jacks of all trades and masters of none. I hope to prove that wrong. I love thinking about what the best way to tell a story is, and mixing mediums seamlessly. College is over for me now and I’m more inspired than ever. I can’t wait to put my skills to the test again, mixing my new career skills with my passion for sports.”
Ros Dumlao, University of Illinois, Class of 2012 –– “I once dreamed of being an Olympic snowboarder. Deep down, I knew that was impossible without the support of my parents – and the fact that I’ve never touched a snowboard. I was just a kid who loved sports and wanted her own story. Little did I know, years later, I’d be telling numerous stories of other athletes and teams, which is better than what I’d dreamed.”
Maya A. Jones, Xavier University of Louisiana, Class of 2012—“Through my years of writing, I’ve tried to make it my mission to be the voice for those who don’t have one. I’m attracted to sports stories of personal victories, redemption and triumph because, in my opinion, everyone deserves to be heard.”
Olivia Lewis, Hampton, Class of 2013 – ” ‘Go hard or go home’. That’s what my coaches always told me and I’ve learned to use the same tactic in journalism. I played four varsity sports in high school and decided to focus on journalism in college. I work hard every day whether it’s for The Hampton Script, CollegeGloss.com, or any other endeavor. I’m extremely excited to be a part of SJI.”
Craig Malveaux, Loyola University of New Orleans, Class of 2012
“Any reporter can regurgitate stats and numbers in play-by-play game analysis stories filled with sports jargon. I prefer telling stories. That’s what I’ve done for three years at my school’s newspaper, The Maroon. I hope in my second tour with SJI I continue to build upon the things I learned last summer.”
Antonio Morales, San Diego State University, Class of 2012 – I’m a 22-year-senior, where I’m the sports editor for The Daily Aztec. I love sports and writing about sports is a passion of mine. I look forward to this opportunity at SJI. I have no doubt it will help me grow as a journalist. I’m extremely grateful for the chance to spend some time in New York this summer with mlb.com and I’m excited about the possibilities.
Tony Olivero, Syracuse University, Class of 2012 — “What makes a great journalist is the thought process they have cultivated while plying their distinctive trade, and how the reporter utilizes that thought process to execute an original journalistic idea for their reader. As a sport management major and a member of The Daily Orange’s Board of Directors, I feel I am developing a thought process unique to any other prospective journalist in the country. I hope to improve upon that aptitude to report through an atypical, yet necessary lens at The Wall Street Journal.”
Jack Wang, UC Berkeley, Class of 2012 — “Writing makes me feel good inside, the way bacon or a pint of India pale ale also makes me feel good inside. Finding the right words to tell a story fills a personal yearning, and faithfully conveying the truth balances style with substance. I try to remember that athletes and coaches are not heroes or gods, their triumphs not the stuff of myth and legend. That they are human is more interesting.”
RJ Young, University of Oklahoma, graduate student — “At day’s end, I will diligently and accurately report sports, acknowledging those men and women who personify Citius, Altius, Foritius, and I will usher into public light those who would corrupt such glorious ideals. I will tell their stories. I will make plain their truths. Many thanks to The Oklahoman for allowing me that coveted honor.”

