My name is Ruth Dahl, and I am a junior at Western Carolina University pursuing a degree in Communication with a concentration in broadcasting and a minor in political science. I aspire to become a reporter for a television news station after I graduate. Once I gain experience in the journalism field, my goal is to become an investigative journalist.

I was recently elected as vice president of the WCU chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America. I am also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists at WCU. I have journalism experience as a staff writer for the Western Carolinian, one of the university’s newspapers focused on campus and community events. I also volunteer with the university radio station, WWCU FM, doing weekly weather forecasts. I am a member of the Tau Sigma National Honor society for outstanding transfer students. During my time at WCU I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and have been on the Chancellor’s list.

I would describe myself as determined, honest, and responsible. I try to live by the words of Michelle Obama, “I have learned that as long as I hold fast to my beliefs and values – and follow my own moral compass – then the only expectations I need to live up to are my own.”