I was born and raised in North County with roots in Carlsbad and now a permanent home in San Marcos. I set off to San Diego State University in 2022, where I majored in Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations.
It wasn’t until my junior year that I knew I wanted to be a journalist. I’d been taking PR classes but wasn’t clicking with that career field.
I took a shot in the dark and began writing arts and culture stories for the school paper, The Daily Aztec.
When I heard about The San Diego Sun’s internship offering, I knew it was the perfect way to continue honing my craft.
I’ve been downtown more times than I can count, but it wasn’t until I immersed myself in the bustling city that I felt like part of the community.
My favorite part about downtown is that it’s an outlet for connection to flourish. It’s home to remarkable small businesses, annual events and San Diego landmarks.
In reporting at The Sun, I improved my ability to ask intuitive questions, and gained confidence in approaching strangers for person-on-the-street interviews.
Journalism is fulfilling for me. I have a passion for writing articles that make a difference. I place importance in sharing issues and ideas that matter to locals.
The aspect of journalism I value most is human connection. I’ve always been a talkative extrovert, so I love meeting people from all walks of life.
My most memorable piece was my feature on The Polished Pigeon. I was grateful to get to highlight a space that promotes inclusivity and safety. I had a wonderful time chatting with the owners and trying a drink from their alcohol-free menu.
Equally notable was my recent article on SKYPKL’s pickleball court pitch. It was a follow-up. SKYPKL’s Claudio Cañive reached out to me. He’d seen my piece on the struggle to find places to play pickleball downtown, and wanted me to tell his story.
As a beginner journalist, this opportunity was exciting. It’s a wonderful thing to feel like your work has been seen and valued.
I’m thankful that my editor, Ron Donoho, took a chance on a PR major looking to find a new path. He allowed me to follow my story scent and write several articles I pitched. It’s because of his relentless support that I’ve grown in my writing and reporting abilities.
I began as an outsider in both city and career, but quickly adapted to the change.
Though its high-rises may make the city seem cold, downtown comes alive with warmth from the community that fills its streets. SDSun
Interested in an internship at The San Diego Sun? Reach out to the editor at: rondonoho@gmail.com.
