Engagement: One of the most important lessons that TRU has taught me is social responsibility. Journalism is a field that allows to shed light on the situation not everyone wants to talk about. I believe that Thompson Rivers University alumni should be capable of critical evaluations, social responsibility and ethical behavior. It’s my first responsibility as a journalist to provide all of these facts to the community. These lessons will stick with me not only during employment, but also in my personal life.
Exploration: Without a doubt, a journalist should be able to construct meaning from information by applying creative and critical thinking through research; this is one of the lessons that my professors in the department have taught me. All research, article development and production skills will be attributes that I will be carrying into my professional life as a journalist.
Connection: As a journalist, effective communication and teamwork are essential skills that I have developed throughout my degree in various ways. Through interviews, collaborative projects, and newsroom discussions, I have learned to adapt my communication style to different audiences while working closely with others to produce meaningful stories. This aligns with TRU’s graduate attributes, as a TRU graduate demonstrates effective communication skills tailored to diverse audiences and possesses the leadership and collaboration skills necessary for success in a team environment.
Local-to-Global: Coming from Kyrgyzstan, I have always valued the richness of diverse cultures and perspectives, and my time at TRU has further deepened my understanding of the importance of recognizing and respecting different worldviews. Engaging with Indigenous knowledge and ways has been particularly meaningful, allowing me to see the connections between my own cultural heritage and other traditions. This experience has strengthened my intercultural awareness and reinforced the significance of inclusivity and respectful dialogue in both academic and professional settings. This aligns with TRU’s graduate attributes, as a TRU graduate recognizes and respects the value of Indigenous knowledge and ways, as well as the diverse cultures and worldviews that shape our communities.
