Hands-On Experience with School of Communication Student Media Equips Alumna Casey Hoolahan for Career in TV News Alumni Profile
Meet Casey Hoolahan
- Job Title & Employer
- Multimedia Journalist, WDTV, Bridgeport, W. Va.
- Major/Program
- Broadcast Reporting
- Graduation
- April 2018
- Scholarships
- Transfer
- Hometown
- Pittsburgh, Pa.
- High School
- North Allegheny High School
- Now Living In
- Bridgeport, W. Va.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Broadway musicals, traveling
"My experience with student media like U-View and The Globe were vital in preparing me to be the one-man band that is a multimedia journalist. Those groups pushed me to refine my writing and video skills and to find my own stories to tell — independence is vital as a reporter in a small town."
What steps did you take to secure a position at WDTV?
I was directly connected to my job thanks to one of my professors at Point Park! I landed an in-person interview with my news director because my professor knew him.
Tell us about the work you do as a multimedia journalist.
My day-to-day is never quite the same as a reporter! Once I’ve found my story for that day, I set up my interview, pack up my gear and drive to my story where I shoot the interview and video. I drive back to the station to write and edit my story together for the evening news. Unless, of course, I’m interrupted by breaking news along the way.
Why did you transfer to Point Park University?
I had previously been going to school in Chicago in an entirely different major, but wanted to go back to my hometown of Pittsburgh and pursue journalism. The tour of the TV station and the awesome Downtown Pittsburgh campus sold me.
In what ways did your undergraduate experience at Point Park prepare you for your career?
My experience with student media like U-View and The Globe were vital in preparing me to be the one-man band that is a multimedia journalist. Those groups pushed me to refine my writing and video skills and to find my own stories to tell — independence is vital as a reporter in a small town!
What advice do you have for prospective School of Communication students?
Take every opportunity! Especially in journalism, groups like The Globe, U-View and WPPJ are all great places to refine your skills and build your resume.
What are your favorite Point Park memories?
I absolutely loved producing and hosting an entertainment news show for U-View and have great memories participating in WPPJ’s Rock-A-Thon!
What are your career goals?
While I've learned a lot in my two years of reporting, I hope next to use my video, writing and media relation skills for non-profit work.
More About: School of Communication, U-View, WPPJ, School of Communication Alumni, success story, alumni, transfer, The Globe, broadcast reporting, North Allegheny Senior High School