Good afternoon, Mr. Lowe. My name is Taylor Shaw. I am a May 2012 graduate of Peace College in Raleigh, N.C. Recently, I accepted a position with The Triangle Tribune, a black community newspaper in Durham, N.C.
I just wanted to thank you for all that you have done for me and my budding journalism career. You have helped me indirectly through the use of social media. I follow #loweclass to stay in the loop. I am constantly learning how I can become a better journalist. I attended a college where media resources were scarce. I learned a lot about journalism through programs with NABJ and internships. I am happy that I have a go-to site where I can stay engaged.
I attended your "Branding You: Student Edition" session during the NABJ convention in June. As a recent college graduate, I knew a strong online presence was key in finding a career. I took your advice on personal branding. I created a digital portfolio, changed my Twitter bio – you featured my twesume on your blog and article for Poynter (how ironic!) – created a cover letter – I used "Covering the Student Cover Letter" – and revamped my LinkedIn page. I constantly go back to the notes from the session as a reference.
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge and wisdom. Sincerely, Taylor Shaw @TaylorShaw_427.
Noting here that my first job out of college was at the Milwaukee Community Journal, also a black newspaper. Anyway, based on her apparent humility, hunger for learning, and readiness to seize upon advice and resources offered by organizations such as NABJ and Poynter, I am confident that Taylor will realize her journalism dreams. For now, I am equally thrilled and humbled that she finds #loweclass and this website helpful.