Get to know some of our College of Media Students! Nina Issel is a Class of 2027 journalism major.
What made you choose journalism at the College of Media?
I realized I enjoyed opportunities to dive deeply into specific topics whether it was researching global conflicts or exploring complex issues in detail and presenting the information. That curiosity and desire to investigate stories led me to journalism. I saw it as a way to engage with meaningful topics and share them in a more impactful way. Journalism allows me to explore ideas more actively and share them with others.
What has been your favorite journalism class so far, and why?
My favorite class so far has been Journalism 215: Multimedia Reporting. While it’s a required course, I think it’s incredibly valuable because it introduces students to the wide range of skills needed in modern journalism. Before taking the class, I primarily saw myself as a writer. However, JOUR 215 reintroduced me to photography and exposed me to video storytelling, which has since become one of my favorite formats. It helped me realize how essential visual storytelling is in journalism, not just for informing audiences, but for engaging them in the work too.
The class also gave me the confidence to continue developing those skills, which led me to take more advanced courses like video reporting and storytelling. Additionally, the feedback I received was very practical and reflective of real-world journalism, which made the experience even more meaningful. The course helped me discover what I enjoy most about journalism and the direction I want to pursue.
What resources within the College of Media have been most helpful to you as a journalism student?
Through the Media Technology Center and Richmond Studio, students can check out professional-grade cameras, microphones, and other equipment. Access to that equipment and hands-on resources have been incredibly helpful. As someone who initially found the technical side of journalism intimidating, being able to use the tools and connect with knowledgeable staff made a big difference in my work on campus. Being given opportunities to experiment, make mistakes, and learn in a supportive environment has been invaluable. It allows you to build practical skills that are essential in the field, especially when working with multimedia.
What has your experience been like writing for The Daily Illini?
My experience with The Daily Illini has been extremely valuable. I write for the Arts & Entertainment section, where I often focus on topics related to sustainability, technology, and innovation on campus. One of the most impactful aspects has been learning how to manage multiple assignments at once. There are days when I’m attending events, conducting interviews, and working on different stories all within a short timeframe. That fast-paced environment has helped me develop stronger organizational skills and adapt to the rhythm of journalism. It has also given me opportunities to expand my multimedia skills, including photography, especially when covering my own stories. It’s been a great way to gain real-world experience and understand the demands of the profession.
Tell me about your internship experience with Sunugal 24.
I recently began my internship with Sunugal 24, and it has already been a very insightful experience. Initially, I expected to work at a traditional radio station, but I quickly learned that the organization primarily operates as a digital media platform, focusing on YouTube and social media. This has been especially exciting because I’m very interested in multimedia and social media journalism. I’ve had the opportunity to observe how content is created, analyzed, and distributed, including reviewing audience engagement through analytics and participating in discussions about partnerships and content strategy.
Additionally, working in a multilingual environment where French and Wolof are primarily spoken has given me a new perspective on journalism in a global context. It has challenged me to adapt and think more critically about how information is communicated across different cultures. The experience has strengthened my understanding of digital media and reinforced my interest in pursuing journalism through social and multimedia platforms.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m particularly interested in pursuing a career in explanatory journalism, especially within multimedia and social media platforms. While I’m still exploring specific opportunities, I’m drawn to organizations that focus on breaking down complex issues and providing meaningful context for audiences. I believe that much of the current mistrust in media stems from a lack of context and depth in reporting. In today’s fast-paced, attention-driven environment, stories are often delivered quickly without fully explaining the broader background. I’m interested in helping address that gap by creating content that not only informs but also provides historical and social context. By doing so, I hope to help audiences better understand complex issues and form more informed perspectives.
What advice would you give to College of Media students interested in journalism?
My biggest piece of advice is to make sure journalism aligns not only with your interests, but also with your personality and working style. It’s one thing to value sharing information, but journalism involves a fast-paced, constantly changing workflow. You need to be comfortable diving deeply into a topic and then moving on quickly to the next story. It also often pushes you outside of your comfort zone. If you enjoy that kind of dynamic environment and are curious about a wide range of topics, journalism can be incredibly rewarding. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance between your passion for storytelling and the type of work environment that motivates you.
—Interview by Andrea De La Torre, New Voices Intern
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