10 Within 10 Recognition

Major: Broadcast & Cinematic Arts, minors in leadership and communication; electronic media management

Job title and employer: Consumer producer at Hearst Television for the national brand Rossen Reports.

Current city: New York, NY

Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI

What is your favorite memory of CMU?

I loved every moment spent at the Leadership Institute, in the School of Broadcast & Cinematic Arts, and in Greek life. But my favorite memories are going to CMU football games — that's when your worlds collide. You see your LAS friends, your radio show cohosts, and your Greek sisters and brothers all in one day. Everyone celebrating being CMU Chippewas — the atmosphere is unmatched!

What has been your coolest moment since graduation?

There have been many memorable moments, but my favorites have been the events I've field produced. Those include America's Thanksgiving Parade, Detroit's Grand Prix, a fundraiser inside Ford Field, Detroit's Ford Fireworks, gubernatorial debates, etc. I've met many diverse people from politicians and celebrities to sports icons and local community members. Sometimes I can't help but pinch myself!

What are you proudest of?

Personally, my family and friends have supported me every step of my career. I'm lucky to have them. Professionally, I've had the privilege of meeting the most interesting people. Broadcast journalism can be fast-paced with constant deadlines looming, but that's never stopped me from being present and in the moment while interviewing people. I've connected with them on a personal level, and I'm honored to call many of those people friends now.

What advice would you give to new graduates?

Don't be afraid to say yes to opportunities that scare you. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be intimidating, but each time I've done it, the rewards have outweighed the fear. I've had jobs and projects come my way where I've questioned, "Am I talented enough to do this?" But each opportunity and what I've learned from it has been worth it. Each one made me brave enough to take on my current job in NYC. Take on the new opportunities that scare you, so when doors open for you, you won't be afraid to step right in!

What has your work life taught you?

Each person you meet has a story to tell, and you can learn so much from those stories. I met a teen who lost his leg helping others after an accident; he showed me the real meaning of perseverance. I met a woman who's stopped at nothing to help her son after he was shot during a drive-by shooting; she showed me selflessness. I met a man who spent his money on heaters for his neighbors when the heat in their apartment complex went out; he showed me kindness. Someone's story may not affect you directly, but you can always draw a lesson from it that can shape how you view your own world.

What about CMU helped you succeed?

I reflect on my weeks at LeaderShape often. It was where I gained the tools to lead with empathy and discovered how to work with a team that has different visions for how to reach a common goal. It was the first place a group of diverse people had difficult conversations about race and privilege that I learned so much from. Those conversations have shaped how I've seen the world since. LeaderShape was where I envisioned creating a positive change in the world, something I work toward every day.

Current city and state: New York City, New York

Current job title and employer:  Rossen Reports Senior Producer at Hearst Television