NAME: Sierra Newton
HOMETOWN: Frankfort, Kentucky
MAJOR(S): Journalism and Electronic Media & Broadcasting
MINOR(S): N/A
YEAR IN COLLEGE: Graduating senior

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

I was born and raised in Frankfort, Kentucky. Although it’s the capital, it’s a small “everybody knows everybody” kind of place. I loved the community I had there and was super involved during grade school.

Why did you choose NKU? What kept you here?

I chose NKU because of the opportunities it presented in my field. Wanting to go into sports broadcasting and being so close to so many sports teams, it was a no-brainer for networking and establishing a name for myself. Also the family the NKU community is and a nice scholarship helped me out.

Can you tell me a little about what you're studying here?

I’m double majoring in Journalism and Electronic Media and Broadcasting to learn the best way to both write and record sports and sports-related stories. I’ve learned how to shoot, write and edit all types of stories along the way.

Could you tell me about the best of your experiences as an NKU student so far?

My favorite experience has been working in the office of Orientation as both an Orientation Leader (OL) and as a Head OL. As an OL you learn about all the opportunities and services that this school has to offer outside of your own college. Being able to relay that information to incoming freshmen and transfer students is so rewarding. Even if I didn’t always have the answer to a question I could at least point them in the right direction. Everyone needs a helping hand in this life and if I could use orientation as that hand for someone I know I’ve served a purpose here at NKU.

Have you had any memorable internships or co-op experiences?

The best internship I’ve had would definitely be working as a sports intern at FOX WXIX. Joe Danneman and Jeremy Rauch really take the time to teach you the craft and once you feel comfortable, they let you take full reign. I’m a hands-on learner and being able to work in real-time and make real-time mistakes and triumphs really helps me learn and that’s exactly what those guys allowed me to do during my 2019 fall semester.

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

I’m currently working at The Enquirer part time but would like to work in the sports department at a local news station. Where? I don’t know, but I just know I’d love to be working with a camera again!

Did you study abroad during your time here? If so, tell me about your experience.

Yes, I studied abroad summer of 2017. I studied in London for two weeks in a Sports Comparisons class with Dr. Stephen Yungbluth. We compared American Sports Culture to British Sports Culture. We got to tour the World Rugby Museum, experience a soccer match, learn how to play cricket and explore the streets of London. Every day was a great learning experience that didn’t even feel like school.

Describe NKU in one word.

Home.

What’s your favorite class?

EMB 397, my projects class with Wes Akers. He really lets you take a project and make it your own. I got to write, produce and star in my own sports podcast and sports show. It really helped me learn every aspect of working in sports media.

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

My favorite spot on campus is The Northerner newsroom. As the Sports Editor, it has become my second dwelling place! If I’m not covering a game or in class, you will find me there. I love being around the staff, collaborating on stories or just hanging out. It’s always a welcoming and inviting place for me to go.

Where’s the best place to study on campus?

Griffin Hall, but at night! The lights are so calming and set the studying mood.

What is your greatest passion?

Telling people’s stories and helping people. I believe my greater purpose in life is to be a servant to others. I’m not sure in what capacity yet but I know I’m a helper.

What is your favorite NKU memory?

My favorite memory was winning Homecoming Princess is 2018. To win by vote amongst my peers and being chosen by NKU faculty and staff meant the world. To know the place I love so much loves me back means so much. Also during NKU’s 50th anniversary; can’t top that!

What advice would you give to a first-year student?

Try the thing at NKU that scares you the most. I was so worried about being a part of The Northerner my freshman year and didn’t start writing until my junior year. It’s the one thing I regret the most -- not writing sooner.

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

NKU is truly what you make of it; you get out of it what’s put in. I’m so grateful for all the faculty, staff and alumni that have helped and encouraged me along the way.