Alumni Profile: Amanda Gillooly, editor of Canon-McMillan Patch Monday, August 15, 2011
Meet Amanda Gillooly
Major and degrees earned at Point Park: B.A. in journalism and mass communication
Graduation year: 2002
Job title/current employer: Local editor for Canon-McMillan Patch
Hometown: Moon Township, Pa.
Why did you choose to attend Point Park?
I chose Point Park after attending many of its high school journalism programs. Professors such as Helen Fallon and adjuncts such as Joe Knupsky were so knowledgeable and personable that I knew I'd find a home there. And I did.
How did Point Park prepare your for your career in journalism?
Point Park taught us the basics: how to ask the questions, what the news is and how to write it. But professors such as Bill Moushey also ingrained a team-oriented mentality and a never-say-never attitude when it comes to pursuing a story. So many of the professors taught us that talent does much, but passion does more.
What was one of your favorite experiences while you were at Point Park?
I was a longtime editor of The Globe (and probably spent more hours in that newsroom than in my dorm room), but my favorite experience by far was my work with Moushey and The Innocence Institute of Point Park University. I had the privilege to work on its flagship project - and before accepting my position at Patch, I was a member of a team that worked on a project that ended up being a finalist for a national award.
What advice do you have for prospective students entering the journalism program at Point Park?
Get out there and get as many clips as you can. Also, network!
What advice do you have for students considering a job in online journalism?
First, learn to brainstorm often - and learn to look at stories in different ways. Maybe the story can be better told through video or photo galleries. Aside from creativity, I would say that the art of writing clean copy quickly is important. And time management! Learning to multi-task and spend your time wisely is uber important.
What is your favorite thing about your job at Patch?
I love that every day is different. Mostly, though, I love that community journalism is alive and well thanks to Patch.com.
Describe a typical day at Patch.
Generally, I wake up and check my email and various websites. After that I do editing, catch up with freelancers and head out into the field to speak with sources and come up with story ideas. It's busy, busy, and I love it!