The Women In Media organization at MU opened up membership for incoming students and welcomed returning members.
Women In Media kick-started the 2023 fall semester with an introductory meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 28 for prospective and returning members to socialize, eat and learn about what it means to be involved with WIM.
The meeting took place at 5 p.m. in Smith Forum at the Reynolds Journalism Institute and was led by their executive board, made up of five journalism students: Jessie Scowcroft and Charlotte Raley; co-presidents, Sydney Perry; communications committee, Madisyn Rix; logistics committee and Morgan Kendall; logistics committee.
During their first meeting, executive members of WIM emphasized their desire to create a safe and relaxed yet exciting and empowering environment for female MU students who are either already academically involved with journalism/strategic communication, or those who have interest in it.
Paige Gerling (left) and Emma Rae Gerwen (center) observe a presentation by Women in Media leaders on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 at the Reynolds Journalism Institute in Columbia, Mo. Snacks were provided for prospective members to enjoy.
“I feel like [WIM is] just connecting people, like the exec members are really awesome. Just seeing familiar faces that you now know in the J-school that you can befriend and get to talk to, furthering your career, it’s nice to have those people here.” Kendall said.
Women In Media offers mentorship programs with MU J-school alumni, leadership opportunities on their executive board, tours of the J-school’s newsrooms, along with other opportunities they have in the works for members. WIM holds two meetings a month, and their upcoming meetings will be on September 7 and September 19 in the same location as the previous gathering.
WIM also regularly hosts guest speakers in their meetings. On Tuesday, study abroad coordinator Drew Dumas to talk about the J-School’s global programs.
WIM emphasizes the importance of having a closer, diverse organization of those with a common passion for the media industry, creating and enlarging a community of close-knit female students studying journalism students at MU.
omen in Media Executive Board members introduce themselves and their roles on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 at the Reynolds Journalism Institute in Columbia, Mo. This is the organization’s first meeting for the 2023-2024 academic year.
When asked about the advice she would give to prospective members of WIM, Rix said;
“Be open-minded …to not only learn about our organization but just journalism in general- but also have fun. We’re pretty chill, just be open to meeting new people and trying new things and I feel like we’ll have a great time.”
To join this organization, attend one of their upcoming events or learn more information, follow their instagram: @mizzouwim and click on their Linktree in the bio.
Edited by Sam Barrett | sbarrett@themaneater.com
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