"The people must know before they can act, and there is no educator to compare with the press."
- Ida B. Wells

I have always believed that journalists have a subtle form of power in society. People quote statistics, make small talk and base major decisions all from what they read in news. I did not decide to go into journalism simply because of my love for writing or my need to know the business of the world.

read my professional statement

I was born in Chicago, Illinois, but have lived most of my life in Edwardsville, Illinois. I spent my time in Edwardsville High School being involved in a wide variety of activities. I was in French Club, PROUD (a group of students committed to diversity awareness), Saturday Scholars, Women in Math, Science and Engineering and the Yearbook club. It took some learning the hard way for me to figure out I would be happier following my dreams than trying to fill my pockets. Since that revelation, I have not looked back. I truly feel connected to journalism and what journalists aspire to acheive. I am graduating in May or August 2008 and am excited to begin my career. Many people aspire to move up the corporate ladder. Although it may seem far from ambitious of me to say, I admit I just want to bring news to people in new and exciting ways.

Kelly S. Taylor