STEPHEN SVITKO

After years of trying to find my career path, I decided to follow my true passions and talents. I found that talking to people, getting their stories, and dispersing said stories out into the public were all great enjoyments of mine, but I felt like I could do more than just that. Our duties as journalists extend further than the job description, and I strive to put these words into action in the workplace.

After completing my first semester at Penn State in the summer of 2016, I decided I wanted to try out for the Penn State Marching Blue Band.  I was nervous at the time, as anyone would be, but I showed up and did what I knew how to do best: drum. It would have been easy to walk away and not try out, but I can wholeheartedly say that joining this organization is one of the most important things I have ever done.  This band has changed me as a student, musician, and human, constantly presenting me with obstacles and time crunches. It's not easy to play in a band with 300 other people, but when everyone knows their role and gives an honest effort, great things never cease to appear. The values I have learned from Blue Band carry directly over to my professional career, as leadership, time management, and adaptation have been proven to be key components to success in my field of study.

I also became involved with ComRadio, a student-run radio station and website at Penn State, and developed my broadcasting and audio editing skills. This extra-curricular activity opened the door to a broadcast internship with the Pennsylvania State Senate, and continues to present me with new challenges and ideas. My most recent producing experience with Centre County Report at Penn State is currently providing me with a very professional and time constrained work environment, as well as the opportunity to learn and grow from my mistakes.

The College of Communications at Penn State University truly helped guide me in the right direction and provide the connections, tools, and experience necessary for a diverse background. I hope to get right to work as soon as I graduate, as I feel I have a lot to offer to the journalistic and broadcasting community.