January 10, 2012
Graduate School of Journalism
University of British Columbia
6388 Crescent Road
Vancouver, British Columbia V6T
1Z2
Dear Admissions Committee,
I once drank Courvoisier with
Jay-Z. His palms were soft as mine met his for a handshake, and his “Thank you”
fell genuine on my ears after I said how much I loved his sold-out performance.
It was a quick interaction, but indelible and noteworthy nonetheless.
Noteworthy because, while I
never got to interview the rapper that night, it is to the credit of my
experience in journalism that I gained access to the cordoned area in that
seedy Edmonton bar. Being a journalist has made me a confident woman, adept at
connecting with people, gaining their trust, and telling their stories – which
I have done with great satisfaction over the past nine years.
But I want more. I yearn not
just to keep working as a journalist for the mainstream media, but also to
delve deeper into the study of journalism. I want to explore myself through
specific questions related to journalism, apply my knowledge in the field –
specifically in print and online – and eventually teach my craft at the
university level.
My goals over the next two to
five years include developing professional relationships as a freelancer with
the Globe and Mail, and the Walrus, as well as having completed a first draft
of my non-fiction novel. Narrative journalism and writing a novel are great
interests of mine that have been nurtured over the past two years, as I have
studied with some of Canada’s finest creative writing professors. Their
confidence in my ability to write creative non-fiction has bolstered my choice
to venture further into narrative journalism.
This choice has led me to the
UBC program, where I believe the research skills and mentorship opportunities
availed to me through my studies will advance my professional goals – and they
might even help me get that interview with Jay-Z.
Thank you for considering my
application.
(Below picture not included in my letter to UBC.)
(Below picture not included in my letter to UBC.)
 |
| Jay-Z's manager hooked me up with front-and-centre seats for the rapper's show in Calgary the next night. |
