Caryn Rousseau, a multimedia reporter for The Associated Press bureau in Chicago and a Bishop Noll graduate (‘96), spoke to the JourNoll and Marquette staff writers in December, emphasizing the value of the media classes and clubs offered at the high school level.
“Taking publications courses in high school teaches you valuable communication skills that you can apply to any field,” Rousseau said. “If you do want to pursue a career as a journalist, writer, editor, photographer or web developer, taking publications classes in high school gives you much-needed experience before you get to college.”
A former JourNoll editor, Rousseau studied journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia and took her first job with AP in 2001. Before joining the Chicago bureau of the AP in 2007, she worked in Little Rock, AR, and Kansas City, MO.
Rousseau also interviews celebrities and entertainers when stories correspond with Chicago news. Oprah Winfrey and Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins are two major entertainers featured in recent articles. This past September, Rousseau spent time in Poland, writing a series of articles for AP.
Noting the recent technological advancements of the JourNoll, Rousseau urged the student journalists to use their skills and push themselves towards a professional goal.
“Look for mentors in the fields or areas you want to study,” she said. “There are many professionals who are willing to spend time with students and share their experiences.”
Rousseau’s articles can be found in most major print and online newspapers.