Sunday: July 21, 2012

We had the day off today, and I just wanted to lay in my bed and do nothing but fade in and out of sleep. I did this until 4pm and finally decided to get my day started after I missed several calls from the right people. My cousin Jamal, who is a infantry Marine, just came back from Afghanistan and is staying in Brooklyn. I wanted to link with him and go to a basketball tournament that was sponsored by his brother. I quickly became sidetracked when I found out my friend Matty "Makeitwork" was in town. We became friends our sophomore year in college and been close ever since. He took all five of friends to CAU's homecoming coronation as his dates, and it was definitely an epic night. 

I also found out where my friend Farren lives in Harlem and we are contemplating on getting an apartment together WHEN I officially move to NYC. She is a free spirit, so I will be kept on my toes and explore all parts of the city.  She found out about a free B.O.B concert in the Meat Packing District. I invited my cousin to go with us, because I want to have a real NYC experience with him before he goes back to work. 

I am trying to fall in love with the city, but I am secretly missing Atlanta, especially since I spent time with my friends that I ran the city with. I was surreal to be walking the city together. Matt an I vowed to always stay in contact and grow together. He keeps me in touch with the underground indie world and I am trying to convince him to move here (after he finishes school). I told him he cannot be Van Wilder and be in school until 30 years old.  

Independence Day in Harlem, USA

Here are a few pictures of my random 4th of July:

Meet Clem Richardson

Refusing to convert to new age media, Clem Richardson stays true to his old-school writing tactics although his job may be in jeopardy. 

Three decades surviving in the tenacious industry of journalism and still remains afloat, the 58 year-old New York Daily News City Beat columnist expressed the importance of social media in todays society, although he refuses to converge to the expanding phenomena. Richardson states though he worries about the future of his overall career in print journalism, but declines to get with the new wave. 

Initiating his career in Anderson, South Carolina, Richardson states he realized at the tender age of 8 years-old that writing was an passion after reading Arabian Nights, his favorite book, one night with his grandmother. Although journalism was not the original route, he made career sacrifices simply because he was hungry, literally. Determined and ambitious, Richardson expanded his horizons to several news organizations in larger markets like Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami before finally taking a bite out of the Big Apple. He added that although he truly appreciated working at the Miami-Herald, stuffing his broad 6'5ft. statue in his Toyota in the coastal sweltering heat to look for stories, was not gratifying. He meekly mentioned traveling to teach in South Africa, building relationships with people he covered stories on, and being banned from the an Federal Prison in Maryland by the warden. He joked he was not going to be traveling to that area any time in the near future. 

Flashing back on these episodic events, Richardson exclaimed to The Reid Group, an summer internship preparing media professionals in journalism, that one reason he stays employed is because he mastered writing substantial leads when pitching stories. Being able to write strong leads sells the story, emphasized Richardson, stating it will intrigue audiences to continue to seek the information supplied. An confident lead ensures the reader that the writer is well informed about the subject matter, stated Richardson, while displaying unique and successful structures. He also revealed the horrid truth of how the economic downfall has hurt the media industry and 40,000 people that were  considered veterans were out of jobs, competing for many of the same positions that were entry-level. 

He noted to the youthful group that reading all forms of literature will expand one's vocabulary and style of writing of several types of news. A final reminder was to stay objective when writing stories to avoid bias tones, and always ask the right question. The simple questions are essentially the vital questions.

TGIF 6/29!

TGIF!

Although it is the end of the week, there is still so much work to still be done. I am very appreciative of this opportunity and interning at theGrio.com, but I really want to be in the news room. I would hate to come off rude or appalling, but I would like to take Brishaun's place at WNBC. I miss her dearly but business is just that and I need to make sure I am getting the most out of this opportunity. My current internship is beneficial but I find myself killing time for most of the shift and I really do not feel a part of the team, but an entity taking up space.

I received disturbing news this morning that really put a damper on my day, My great-uncle finally died this morning. He was expected to pass last year, so thank God that he was granted more time, but my concern is for grandmother, who I heard taking it hard. My mother  and my aunt are very concerned about her, not wanting her to indulge in alcohol to coat her sorrows. Times like this are difficult to stay focused because this is a very crucial moment for my family and I want to be home for comfort. The realization that only four of eight siblings remain living is a tough pill to swallow, especially since there has been conflict within the family, causing a slow deterioration. I guess one can be optimistic that my uncle's death will force issues to be addressed. 

I have been dealing with conflict as well with my biological father. As I mature, I have come to accept that some people just never evolve and dealing with them accordingly. I am blessed to have several father figures that have been placed in my life to fill that void. My brother's father, Glen, poured loads of encouragement and wisdom into my life, I am tearing up as I write this blog. We must have been on the phone for about two hours catching up on the events that had taken place and that are soon approaching. Although he and my mother split when I was about 7 years old, he has stayed involved in my life (for the most part) since I was two years old. 

I have only had a few hours of sleep, so today will be an early night for the sack. I want to prepare for the live shots tomorrow, especially since I did not go last week due to "technical difficulties". I need to have a well prepared story with ample details so it can be as close to perfection as possible. I am not interested in being on television, but learning every aspect is definitely beneficial for future career endeavors. 

June 28...

It was all good just a week ago...

           A bitter-sweet feeling is left after a long propitious day. It began when the Reid Group was granted the opportunity to have an insinuate conversation with Michael Jack, President and General Manager of NBC New York. His affable persona relaxed the stiff vibe as he escorted himself inside the chilled room.

"Suck it up" advised Mr. Jack, annotating the management of his personal life and having the ultimate responsibility of keeping the network afloat. He administered wisdom in such an admirable manner that I could not resist capturing every word his mouth uttered. When the hour abruptly concluded, it felt as if a personal consultation had concluded prematurely. 

            While Mr. Jack articulated vital requirements for a efficacious career in media. Ms. Sharmyne Jenkins made critical notations of our interaction with the general manager and overall appearance. She provided key lifestyle bullet points that as African-American women must remain cautious of while working in corporate America. I was enthused to get knowledgeable advice on black hair in corporations. Often at times I become apprehensive with having dreadlocks while on my pursuit and wonder will my hairstyle preference become a hindrance.

            While writing this blog, I occasionally glance up at the television to enjoy the VH1 special on best 90s R&B songs, which is keeping me entertained, since TV has been a major deprivation over the last three weeks. I immediately became beatific when Ms. Lola Ogunnaike randomly pops up on the screen one of the commentators. Garishly I announced it in the empty common area that I had just been her earlier today. At that very moment it settled in that the Reid Group are exposed to extraordinary people on a daily basis that are triumphant in the media industry, and they are all pouring information into our lives to make us just as exquisite. She brought several magazines that featured articles that she had written, providing a variation of writing styles that differed per publication. Ms. Ogunnaike reflected on horror stories of writer's block that she experienced throughout her career, made her more relatable coining her as one of the favorites.

            Of course, Ms. Terri Martin is always a delight with her straight to the point attitude that protrudes her personality. The scripts were provided are definitely going to get plastered on my walls in plain sight as a reference when writing for broadcast radio and television. The exercise of writing for broadcast that we had to complete today was essential for me to comprehend when trying to produce news segments.

            All went sour when the day concluded and Ms. Reid trudged in the conference room announcing unexpectedly the departure of one of the interns. No one uttered a word as the unfortunate earful was informed. It felt as if a comrade had been annihilated during a crusade as empathy began to sink in. I never would have thought that one of the "originals" would be exiled and although it was gut-wrenching reality; it was also an embarrassing reflection on the group as a whole. It serves as a harsh but accurate reminder that nothing is owed to those that do not earn it and becoming too comfortable in intense atmospheres might just send you to the chopping block.

Wednesday, June 27th

      My first official day at theGrio.com was definitely gratifying. I pitched some good, well thought out  stories that were chosen to go on the website. The editor, Adam Howard pointed out that my selections were the type of content that the website sought. I guess being subjected to refer to the site for leads for Newsbreak at Clark Atlanta paid off in the long run. I would have never thought that I would have an internship reporting news that was relevant to black America. This subject is definitely a passion for me because I feel as if I am contributing to the voice for the urban community that is often ignored by mainstream.
      It felt good to be one of the last to leave the office because I am really trying to make good impression on the organization. I left after Adam and told the girls to leave without me because I had to complete an assignment, so much effort is given. Writing is not a strong point, so I realize that I have to work extra hard to make sure there is not any grammatical errors, misleading components, or fraudulent information.
      I noticed that when the day begins, the office is uptight with trying to meet approaching deadlines and finding unique stories before the pitch meeting at 10:45am sharp. As I stated earlier, my stories sparked the interest of other contributors and I had a chance to write web run-downs for them. I was also asked to complete extra task, which is why I left so late.
     Although, I was working on four hours of sleep, news is a passion and there really is never a dull moment and to be honest, I do not want one. Although the days feel long to others, I feel as if there is not enough time in the day. Finding an occupation in my desired career path in this media mecca and being prepared if one presents itself, has been an daily stress. The weeks are flying by and I am trying to really consume and expand the knowledge that had been presented thus far in this program. I try not to be fearful of the market and even considered starting off in a smaller market in the surrounding area to work out any extra kinks. Graduate school has also been in the forefront of my cerebral as well. I want to make time to start researching different programs that would benefit me. Prestige and diversity are just two of the key components that I am searching for when choosing an university.

Ground Zero: My Experience

       Walking past O'hara's Restaurant & Pub, a pedestrian would think it was just an ordinary Irish bar with cheap (or expensive) beer, but one would soon realize that it was just as much a part of the Ground Zero memorial. 

Located directly across the street from the famous tourist attraction and decorated with a several varieties of patches of the police force, fire department and military personal. Ohara's provides prides itself on its patriotic slogans that paid homage to the ones that lost their lives or fought during the appalling mark in history. It makes sure its customers never forget the tragedy of September 11, 2001. The well-established business shared its own experience of turbulence when the World Trade Center fell and how it was dramatically effected. Being a native of New York State, I could not resist hearing first hand the story of this small bar that overall succeeded from the traumatic acquaintance.  

Dave Demarco, an employee at the famous pub, stated "this was definitely an Wall Street bar…workers would come here after 15 hour shifts."  The bar provides an scrap-book dedicated to the infamous date of pictures filled with newspaper clippings, personal letters from dedicated patrons that were featured in magazines like Vanity Fair, and obituaries of police and firemen that died during the attack.  "The bar took a major lost after 9/11" stated Demarco, when the bar, that has been open since 1983, had to close for eight months after the Twin Towers fell, depreciating the originally four- stories to a one floor business. 

      When asked about the construction of the new site, Demarco simply stated he was glad to see progress of the center because in  2010 he could not see over the fence of surrounding the area. Now, Tower 7 is almost complete and the rest of the buildings are getting built rapidly.

     Getting the chance to visit the actual memorial site and museum can be an humbling experience, one can not resist an sense of empathy for the families that lost a loved-one. Missing persons ads were plastered along the walls, as well as personal pictures and items that that held sentimental value. A few Items that were obtained from the debris, such as airplanes parts, firefighter uniforms, and pillars from the original buildings. 

Day: 8...Inside My Story!

        Producing the segment for the Tom Joyner Morning Show has to be the most stressful task I have endured thus far. I have to admit that if I was not blessed with my partner, Ms Reid would be pissed with me. I came to the realization that I have to really work on pitching stories and doing proper research to get the "real story". I am serious about producing, so this skill needs to be mastered. I expressed these issues with Ms. Reid and I am appreciative that I recognized it this early and know myself well enough address this. 

Four of us met Ms. Reid and CAU adjunct, Professor Jennifer Thomas, for an intimate lunch in SOHO. I was excited to go to that area of NYC because I have never experienced it and was always eager travel there. It helped to be in smaller group because we were all on one-accord and finding the restaurant was a breeze. Professor Thomas greeted us with a joyful welcome and was able to answer questions that concerned us pertaining to graduate school and balancing careers. After lunch, we went to the Betsey Johnson clothing store, which are all closing and were having a discontinuation sale on all items, including furniture. I would have gotten some "bad" shoes for $45 but they didn't have my size, which is always a bad case for us women. 

Having to rush home, confirm guest, obtain official statements from attorney's  within an hour before an 6:30pm workshop had my partner and I pulling out patches of hair (well locks in my case). Meeting Ms. Allison Samuels was worth it for two reasons: one she is a CAU alumnae; and two she gave such insight on First Lady Michelle Obama and more knowledge being a great woman and of course the subject of creditable journalism. 

One mental note that stuck out with all the guest that we have encountered thus far is that they have all stated that this industry is minority deprived and to me that's a harsh pill to swallow because I am a double minority:  black and a women with morality.  

Day 7: CCC...Brooklyn!!!

        The Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn was definitely a spiritual breathe of fresh air. At first, I have to admit I was a bit apprehensive about attending the 30,000+ congregation due to my own personal issues with religion and churches with "spot and wrinkles", but after being greeting with warm welcomes and enjoying the praise and worship, my guard was eventually demolished. 

The sermon was quick and to the point which is good for the schedules we have. Senior Pastor, Rev. A. R. Bernard style of preaching was admirable because he taught the word of God with passion and swagger. He strategically left cliff hangers to keep his audience coming back for more. His style was different from the usual fire and brimstone style of preaching that is too common in many black churches. I was slightly disappointed when time ran out because I felt that the sermon just starting to deliver vital information that was meant for me to get through this experience and prepare for my career. 

      I had been feeling as though I had been walking blindly trying to figure my PURPOSE. At times struggle with the idea that I am not working to the best of my ability or more simply, what I want to do with the rest of my life. I want to continue attending CCC weekly to keep a spiritual balance that has been lacking in my life. The main objective is to remain sane with everything that is happening so rapidly.  

Day 6: The best day...

TODAY WAS A GOOD DAY. 

After a early start, today had to be the best day so far in this experience. It began with meeting the lovely Mrs. Pat Battle during her segment for the morning news. Being in the studio while live on-air brought back so many memories of when I interned at WAGA FOX 5 Atlanta. I really wanted to go to the control room to see where the magic happens. Mrs. Battle was such an delight with her witty personality,  all of us  girls agreed that she was "the homegirl". She's able to capture her audience by having a comical and sarcastic style of reporting, while still relying the story and  relevant information. It was definitely relieving to hear that she was married and had a family that was functional. Having a husband that was reporter was also very interesting to find as well, adding the fact that he attended Clark Atlanta. I am guilty to admit that I would love to be a fly on the wall in their household to see how they balance their family and this intense business. 

Ms. Christine Fields, who insisted we call her "Tine", was definitely a blessing to meet. Learning different techniques for shooting was beneficial because I need to advance in that area because it is essential to my career. I realized it need to tell my mother to FedEx my Bare Bones  textbook, an "dummy" manuel for proper shooting, down here because it definitely needed. It felt good to know a snippet of her knowledge when she was explaining the basics of cinematography and photography. I was silently thinking to myself "Ok, CAU Alumna!" The photographs that were shown were meritorious to say the least. The few I had a chance to look at  each had unique character. I was even more shocked to hear of the places around the world in which she had taken them. I made the mental note of  "following the lines". 

After learning a few techniques of "live shots", doing them on camera was not that intimidating. I actually felt official to be on the streets of New York City with NBC4 paraphernalia. At first, I was nervous to be on a main street with all these tourist curiously gazing at us, but when my turn came it flowed naturally (almost). I really thought Mrs. Battle was going to have prove her name when this weird guy was going too far with his comments and being a little too much in the mix. 

After the day ended at "30 Rock", we collectively went to Times Square and had our a true "bonding moment". All the characters that were in the street made me feel as though I was in an congested amusement park. The statue of Liberty impersonators, a silver man, a Chicago performer, along with Mickey Mouse and Elmo were just a few characters we were greeted by. Although dinner at T.G.I Friday's  was ridiculously expensive, it was well-needed outing because we all grew more closer as a group (in my opinion). We laughed, shared a few personal stories, learned common interest and even addressed undertones issues that may have been "incidents".

Saturday nights are so live in Harlem. Everyone is outside, music blasting, children playing in the park.  A fellow "Reid girl" and I really connected as we explored our surrounding neighborhood. We linked with a few friends from college and was able to really experience Harlem. Literally just a few blocks, we were opened up to a foreign world that was starting to feel like home. We found ourselves at a social gathering that that was on a roof! Looking over Harlem upon the concrete jungle, I definitely had a moment. It had finally set in that I was in NYC, and I realized that since high school I have wanted to be here; Atlanta was simply an detour.

After we left the gathering, we walked to a latino seafood restaurant on 125th Ave and Amsterdam. It immediately became the spot to go to for a great inexpensive meal, plus it's 24 hours. They served fresh seafood that one could buy straight off the ice as well as a variety of cooked meals with choices that ranged from fresh veggies to spanish rice. 

After our eventful day, we felt proud to be back in the dorms by 10:30pm, beating our 11pm curfew. We had to laugh amongst ourselves because throughout the whole odyssey we still were focused on our work, stressing about the upcoming events that awaits. 

Friday: Day 5

I don't have an internship yet, so I did not have to leave the dorm  today. Of course Ms. Reid made sure my day was full and eventful. Next week I have the responsibility of finding guest for the Tom Joyner Morning Show on top of other assignments that are due and the pressure is on. Pitching a story that is acceptable is difficult, but actually finding a guest can not be described for this blog. The realization that this national segment is my responsibility is a tough pill to swallow, but it will get done. I also have to research information on Glossolalia or as we know it "speaking in tongues". 

We were suppose to go to a soul food restaurant called Melba's, but Ms. Reid insisted we stay in for a pizza night, where she addressed some issues that she been hearing about and basically told us to not act like "unstable creatures". We had a one-on-one to recap the week and consumed all the information she suggested to do to network. As a group, we inducted our honorary twelfth member of The Reid Group when a girl that attended CCNY invited herself into our session. She was nice and very enthused to meet us, so it was okay. 

Later that evening, we watched Sue Simmons of NBC4 last show anchoring for the network. Although I never heard of her before coming to New York City, watching her story I became emotional. One thing for sure, she was definitely a "fox" when she was younger and she grew to become  irreplaceable icon. I have to admit, I was left pondering on why her co-host was not released along with her. 

Day 4...

        New York City becomes more intriguing and adventurous daily. Today we went to lunch at Ditch Plains, I am still trying to figure out what part of town we were in, but the area was clean and looked very "rich" and did not have the common smell of garbage and urine that floods the streets of Harlem. Besides the vibe of the area, the restaurant had a down-to-earth feeling and we were greeted by the general manager, who seemed appreciative to have us as guest. The food was commendable, which is good since they are treating us to lunch twice a week for the duration of the internship. 

The service was good and on point with any need, but it was a little slow and  we were a little late getting back to 30 Rock. Part of it was arriving late to the establishment, but I think apart of the problem was the fact that many of the girls haven't yet grasp the concept of "the New York minute". I fall victim to this problem as well, but I have noticed I move fast naturally, sometimes a little too fast at times and I often have to retract my steps. I did enjoy the fact that we came up with personal nicknames for each other. The name I was given was "Stay Schemin" because I always have an plan forming in my head and I often move covert, or so I have been told. It definitely made the afternoon that much better and it showed a sense of bonding and unity amongst the group. 

All the guest today gave vital information that poured directly into my life. I consumed as much information as I could ingest to make me a better journalist. Sometimes ( most times) I am my worst critique and feel I am not working to the best of my ability and my stress levels go from zero to ten in .5 seconds . I know that there is always room for improvement; organization is the key! 

Day 3

       What I saw in New York City today was probably the most disturbing thing to date with this experience in the Big Apple. I was on my way to a corner store on Amsterdam Avenue when I stumbled across a "Live Poultry" market operated by hispanics. Curiosity got the best of me and I just had take a sneak peak of what was actually being sold and to my surprise it was several cages of live chickens stacked on top of each other. I understand that buying these chickens may be fresher rather purchasing them in the grocery store or local meat market, but the idea that most of these caged animals were probably born in the store and may have been eating their own feces was definitely gut-wrenching. 

I refused to walk in the store for two main reasons: I didn't want to become an vegan on the spot, which would have been the definite outcome and I did not want to start crying hysterically on the streets of Harlem. I will make it in there one day to do some investigative reporting of the techniques use to slaughter these chickens and as well as observe possible health hazards. To some, this may not be a big deal, but this is something that I am not use to seeing on a everyday basis because many slaughter houses in my hometown of Rochester are subjected to country areas, while this one was in the local neighborhood. It was very fascinating and despairing at the same time. 

The Reid Group: Day 2

        Today in New York City, I was observing was that everyone rode the subway no matter what walk of life they  came from. Passengers on the New York transit ranged from business executives to foreigners that barely spoke english. Social status or ethnic background was not at all a determining factor. I even saw a Rabbi get off the train, which is not common in my neck of the woods. I was also surprised that Ms. Reid had rode the train into the city  as well. She explained that due to the weather it was just a part of the city's culture. 

I am rapidly learning the proper etiquette of the transit system because I know New Yorkers will snap if your in their way or taking up both sides of the stairways and escalators. I am from upstate New York, which is a little slower than "the city" but I am finding myself becoming adjusted to the ways of life by simply observing my surroundings and people watching. However, I do understand how someone thats never set foot in the Big Apple can become overwhelmed when diving head first into the number 1 market in the country.

The Reid Group: Day 1

What I saw today in New York City was Harlem at best! The chance to finally explore the neighborhood that is enriched with Black culture with sights such as the Apollo Theatre, street vendors and shopping centers and I quickly learned that I did not have to travel far to obtain anything (compared to Atlanta). Another observation that sparked interest was the fact that no one talked on the trains, which made me real cautious of how much my roommate and I engaged in conversation. The independence of children was also intriguing because they travel on the trains alone to go to and from school and really have free will to do what they want in this enormous city. I also observed how natives of NYC move when they are on a mission to their destination. Everyone moves in sync and knows how to maneuver throughout the street without being touched although a thousand people may be walking aside them or hit by speeding ongoing traffic.
Although today was the first day in the Big Apple, I am finding myself to learn the proper etiquettes of the city so that I don't have that "I'm lost" look when trying to get from one destination to the next. I also feel that the ladies with The Reid Group would enjoy the city more if they stopped getting spooked by the horror stories that always being associated with New York City, but just take heed to what has been taught to us and make smart decisions.
Overall, the experience is definitely a blessing and being chosen to participate in the program is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am going to exhaust all networks that are being handed to me. I am ready to learn, enhance my skills in media and have fun!

About Me

       
   When being asked to describe personal attributes about myself, I usually just classify myself as a "free spirit", but after some self-examination, I have come to realize that I am way more complex. I am a senior Mass Media major, with a concentration in TV/film, and a minor in History. Some of the characteristics that would describe me as a person are tailblazing, tenacious, eccentric, persistant, determined, and a little domineering. 
          Having the opportunity to participate in the The Reid Group at Clark Atlanta University Internship Project is an excellent juncture for mass media majors to amplify their ingenuity in the art. I plan to utilize all the information and constructive criticism that I retain from the course to assist me the New York City internship and future endeavours, ultimately leading to a jump start my career. This accomplishment would bring my intricate matriculation at CAU to a gratifying closing and allow me to enhance my skills that I need to master in order to develop into that "expert" intern that "effectively assist and support media professionals in various workplaces".
          As mass media major, overcoming obstacles has become second nature and finding alternative methods a standard in our department. The Internship project will allow me to consolidate all that I have obtained in my five years at Clark Atlanta and evolve into a focused, structured, intuitive media personal. I have and continue to be involved in numerous activities to help advance my production skills in radio/television/film, such as becoming student producer for CAU Newsbreak. I have realized that working menial occupations as a main occupation is becoming an everyday hindrance to my intentness. Being that I only have three credit hours to complete, this will be the first time in my college career that I will be able to focus completely on my craft that has been bestowed upon me.
        Being chosen to participate in this course and later obtaining New York City internship will expose me to a more competitive market and contribute to the skills that Clark Atlanta has exposed me too. I also know that you would not have any contrition in your decision if I were to be selected. I would aspire to intake as much knowledge that will be given, as well as time and devotion to any task that is set forth. Even if I were not chosen for the internship opportunity, I would still be appreciative of completing the course because I would have expanded my knowledge and skills that would equipped me for other opportunities.

Meet: Tahajah Samuels

By Briana C. Scott

Hailing from Brooklyn, NY, Tahajah Samuels exemplifies some of her personal attributes as being confident, hard-working and a little too trust-worthy of people.

          “Everyday won't be peaches and cream, but I know my ultimate goal, I'm a rider and I won't stop until I get it…" stated Tahajah Samuels when explaining her ambition for a career in Public Relations. A junior at Clark Atlanta University, Samuels stated that although Atlanta is known as the black Mecca, it was not her first choice.  “I wanted to go to Howard University; I did early decision and everything.” It was not until she received the Dean’s Scholarship, a first-time freshmen scholarship, and researched the creditials of the Mass Media Arts department that sealed the deal with the University.  

          Shanee Pysadee, a long-time friend of Samuels, stated that she has always been a well rounded, goal oriented person. Pysadee explicated that Public Relation would be a perfect career choice for Tahajah because “she has always been easy to talk to.”

          “It may sound bias, but Tahajah is one of the most amazing people in my age group” stated Kendra Kelly, Samuels’s cousin.  She goes on to explain that although they did not grow up together, Kelly looks at Samuels as one of her closest friends. “She is very tenacious and dedicated to academics, something I take importance in as well” stated Kelly when describing their evolving relationship.

          When asked to describe some key personality traits, Samuels responded “I’m extremely passionate, optimistic, and persistant… No matter what, I give 350% when working on something, because if I don't, who else will?”