My name is Mariah Congedo. I am a senior at West Virginia University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a minor in Communication Studies. After graduating in the spring of 2018, I plan to work as a reporter for a local T.V. station. I have always had a strong passion for criminal law and a desire to pursue law school in the future. Ideally I would like to mix the two fields together to become a legal analyst for a major news network.

I chose to attend West Virginia University because it encompassed all the opportunities that I wanted to pursue while in college. Not only does it house the amazing Reed College of Media, but it also presented me with the option to continue my dance career. I am a fourth-year member of the WVU dance team where I have learned a multitude of valuable skills that will assist me in my career. I am an active member of the M.O.V.E. mentoring program within the Reed College of Media. As a mentor, I provide aid to freshman students by encouraging them to create improved study habits, join organizations/clubs and offer advice as needed. Last school year, I was given the honor to become a Success Coach to help students on academic probation. I was also chosen to be a teaching assistant for a communications class.

During the summer of 2017, I was an intern at Fox19 NOW in Cincinnati, Ohio. I published three news articles on their website, shadowed reporters in the field, handled guests coming onto the show, and recorded stand-ups/newscasts for my news reel. Having this experience broadened my horizons and solidified my future career aspirations.