Anna Izquierdo, a former Mount Pisgah Christian School student and current University of Georgia student majoring in journalism with a minor in communication studies, has built an impressive writing career.
She writes for the Red and Black, an independent student newspaper serving UGA and the surrounding community, and has dedicated one year to covering the Culture and Arts category.
Izquierdo’s passion for journalism began at Mount Pisgah, where she wrote for The Liberty Bell. Reflecting on her early experiences, she credits the school’s publication with helping her grow as a writer.
“The Liberty Bell specifically started my love for journalism and where I first learned how to gather information about the world around me,” said Izquierdo. “It helped me grow as a writer because I received feedback from my editors and was able to learn from it and accept criticism – a vital skill I use consistently with my writing. This was also the first time I realized how much I enjoyed asking questions to other people and creating their stories, which was so different from the writing I had done before in classes.”
With her time ending as a student at UGA, she has begun applying for several prestigious internships, one of which being the Palm Beach Post located in Florida.
“I’m hopeful to hear back from the management team soon and would be so excited to report on the Palm Beach community if given the position,” says Izquierdo.
Like many aspiring journalists, Izquierdo has faced many challenges along the way. Struggling to stay organized has been troublesome, but she remains persistent.
“Thankfully, I’ve learned how to better organize my thoughts and ideas, but it is something I’m constantly working to improve.”
Despite obstacles, her determination has led to success. Looking ahead, Izquierdo hopes to pursue a masters degree in journalism, and later work in a newsroom in the Atlanta area. She continues to use her platform to inform and inspire others, and encourage young writers to embrace challenges and remain dedicated to their craft.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help – journalism can sometimes feel isolating because it’s just you writing a story, but there are sources and information that others are more than willing to share.”
