The National Press Club Journalism Institute is spotlighting the next generation of journalists, students graduating from college or Master’s programs this spring into a challenging job market. We hope they’ll meet future bosses and colleagues here, who will reach out and support them in building journalism’s future together.
Name: Gabrielle Caracciolo
School: Syracuse University
Location: Syracuse, NY
Student media: CitrusTV
Internships: Fox, WBNG
What have you learned from your involvement with student media on your campus?
Caracciolo: CitrusTV provided me with invaluable experience over my last four years at Syracuse University. The opportunity to learn every position from floor director to producer, reporter, and anchor helped me gain a well-rounded understanding of all that goes into a local news broadcast. From producing live election night specials to covering campus protests that garnered the attention of national news, it has truly been an incredible learning experience.
What have you learned from your internship experience(s)?
Caracciolo: Through a wide range of internship experiences, I have been able to gain insight into the production of both local and national news. My internship at Fox taught me how to book interview guests. My internship at Fox taught me how to book interview guests. My internship at WBNG gave me hands-on MMJ experience reporting, producing and boothing different shows. Above all, my internships all taught me the importance of relationships and teamwork in the sometimes stressful news environment.
What’s been your best moment in journalism?
Caracciolo: Last year I traveled to Israel for spring break as part of Newhouse’s International Reporting class. During my 10 days in Israel, I produced a piece on the water crisis in the Middle East. I have always had an interest in international reporting, and to be able to get a taste of that dream my junior year of college was an opportunity I am forever thankful for. The icing on the cake? My piece recently won a NYS Broadcasters Award for best hard news college story!
What’s the wackiest story you’ve worked on?
Caracciolo: While covering the New Hampshire primary with my political reporting class, I produced a story on Vermin Supreme, a political satirist and presidential candidate. He wears a boot on his head and advocates for free ponies for all! Take a look.
What do you want to accomplish in your journalism career?
Caracciolo: My journalism dream job? One day I am going to moderate a presidential debate. I believe it is extremely important for journalists to hold the powerful accountable and act as a voice for the average citizen.
If you could meet any journalist and ask for her/his advice, who would it be and why?
Caracciolo: I have always admired Savannah Guthrie. She is one of the most versatile journalists of our time. How do you strike a balance between having fun on the Today show and making sure the people you are interviewing take you seriously?
What do you want potential employers to know about you?
Caracciolo: I am beyond excited to graduate and start my career in journalism. I’m eager to innovate, adap, and evolve with the industry. We are living and reporting on unprecedented times. I will work hard, learn fast and bring my positive, creative energy to your newsroom (or your zoom call, if we still are working from home. I’m flexible!).
When you aren’t practicing journalism, how do you spend your time?
Caracciolo: Now more than ever, I love spending time with my friends and family. Even if we can only connect via video call, I cherish each moment I get with the people I love. If I’m not hanging with my friends or family or practicing journalism, you can usually find me curled up with a good book and hot chocolate!
If you’re a senior studying journalism, or know one, we’re accepting information here for students to feature in the future. If you’re a supporter, you can contribute here to scholarships for journalism students.
Tags: Class of 2020