Journalism Runs in the Family

By: Chelsea Metheny

FORT COLLINS, Colo— The first day of Newswriting 210 at Colorado State University started out as any other college class: an overview of the syllabus, shy and often awkward introductions, and the overwhelming feeling of oh-my-gosh-summer-is-over. So when the professor announced that we were going to conduct the infamous “classmate interviews,” the uncomfortable hesitation among the students was unmistakable. As everyone shuffled their feet and scuffled across the room, I was welcomed by the bright smile of Kathleen Spence. The junior from Parker, Colorado, immediately diminished any awkwardness that existed, and the interview took off.

During our excited chattering, the inevitable question arised: “So what’s your major?” Kathleen explained that she was a public relations major; she intended to work at a P.R. firm at some point in her career. Intrigued, I urged her to explain what made her decide to specialize in P.R. “My dad was the inspiration to getting into journalism because I have gone to his work and seen the production side of media. I saw how he dealt with people and made different contacts, and I liked this side of it. I wanted to know more about it.” Kathleen’s father is the program director of two major radio stations in the Denver area: 87.7 The Ticket, and 105.5 JACK FM. Although Kathleen’s dad was a major inspiration to her, she does not want to follow in his radio broadcasting footsteps. With her focus on public relations, Kathleen is certain of one thing: “I like to get down to the facts. I like to know exactly what happens.” Miss Kathleen Spence arguably seems to have a dazzling future in journalism.