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Student Spotlight: Sierra Newton


 
By NKU Magazine Staff | Photography by Scott Beseler | Published July 22, 2019
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Trey Burns
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HOMETOWN: Frankfort, Kentucky
MAJOR: Journalism and Electronic Media & Broadcasting
YEAR IN COLLEGE: Junior

Tell me about life pre-NKU. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Frankfort, Kentucky.

Why did you choose NKU? What kept you here?

I chose NKU because it offers Journalism and Electronic Media & Broadcasting. Most schools only had journalism or a major that fell under the communications umbrella. There’s also a lot of internship opportunities at broadcast stations in the area. The family atmosphere and caring faculty and staff has kept me here.

Can you tell me a little about what you’re studying?

I’m studying both sides of journalism—print and broadcast—so that I can be versatile and know as much about the business as possible. There are classes that range from writing news stories to producing broadcast shows here at NKU.

What’s the first word that comes to mind when you think about NKU?

Home.

What is the best thing about NKU?

The vast amount of opportunities that await each student.

What advice would you give a first-year student? 

Don’t be afraid to try something that scares you. It could end up being the thing you love most.

What’s your favorite class? Why?

My favorite class so far has been JOU 331: Specialty Reporting because it was one of the first journalism classes where I actually got to write news stories. My professor encouraged me to become a stronger writer and piqued my interest in writing for The Northerner.

What has been your most challenging academic experience so far? Why?

My most challenging academic experience so far was taking 18 credit hours in one semester. It was a struggle to balance my time correctly, but I feel I ended well.

What’s a favorite NKU memory you’ll never forget?

My favorite NKU memory is being the 2018 Homecoming Princess. Being nominated by my peers meant so much to me, and being able to represent the Norse is a memory I will treasure forever.

What is your favorite way to decompress?

I love watching Mulan and taking a nap.

Where’s your favorite spot on campus? What makes that spot so special?

My favorite spot to hang on campus would have to be the Center of Student Inclusiveness. There’s a strong support system there, and people are always wanting to talk and have a good time.

Who’s your favorite professor (or staff member)? Why?

My favorite staff member is Britta Gibson. After working with her for two summers as an Orientation Leader and Head Orientation Leader, she has become a mentor and role model. She truly cares about her students and what she does here at NKU.

Where’s the best place to study?

The best place to study is Griffin Hall lobby underneath the fluorescent multi-colored lights.

What is your favorite way to spend your free time?

In my free time, I love hanging out with my friends on campus.

How do you stay focused?

I stay focused by remembering the goals I have set and how I got here. I’m the first student in my family to go to school on an academic scholarship.

What is your greatest passion?

I love sports, basketball specifically. I just want to be around basketball, either telling the stories behind it or coaching myself.

What kind of job would you like to have after you graduate?

A broadcast journalism gig.

What are a few things every NKU student should do here before he or she graduates?

Every student should attend an NPHC Homecoming Step Show performance. Everyone should also look into studying abroad. NKU makes it much more affordable if you put in the effort to get scholarships. I had the time of my life in London, and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Tell me anything else about yourself and/or NKU that you want folks to know.

Your experience can be anything you want it to be as long as you put in the attitude and the effort to make it that!

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