Jasmine O'Halloran

Journalism Class of 2014
1. Where did you do your internship while in MRU Journalism?

Alberta Wheat Commissions; Strathmore Standard working for a small town newspaper gave me some good direction as to where I wanted to move forward. I found working in small towns much easier and people were more welcoming.

2. Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have liked to give yourself as you started your internship?

You may be more educated than your supervisor. Try to set your ego aside, but keep your ethics and morals and the forefront of your mind. Remember, making the community you serve happy is by far the most important. Earning people's trust and respect goes miles.

3. What is something that really stands out when you think about your time at MRU Journalism?

How very well-rounded and structured the program is and how supportive the professors are. How the program helped me to further develop natural talents I always had. Very supportive atmosphere. I have highly recommended MRU to many people in my everyday life.

4. In your career, what type of work has most excited you, and why?

I have loved being a sports reporter. Being a professional and covering hockey games is a thriller.

5. What is the most important but unwritten rule that you’ve learned on the job?

Earn the trust and respect of the community you work in and anyone will talk to you. When someone says ‘off the record’, that means you take what they have said to your grave.

6. Who has most inspired you along the way, and why?

Sally Haney and Janice Paskey. Former professors yes, but continued friendships. Developing good working relationships with people in the communities I have served. I have gotten a lot of positive feedback on my journalistic skills from people on town council.

7. How transferrable were the skills you acquired in your education?

I learned a lot in the program. All the skills taught in the program are very transferrable in the real world. I am currently not doing anything related to my degree, but I still hold my degree at high esteem. I fully understand how the media/news work and have a full appreciation for what real journalism is.

8. Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience in MRU Journalism?

Was worth every minute and penny spent in the program. I have strongly recommended the journalism program over other programs that I have heard of. Very well rounded program and sets you up for the real world.