Kailey Pickering
Degrees: Journalism and Media Communication and History
Kailey Pickering (she/her) has been recommended as an Outstanding Graduate for the College of Liberal Arts by Instructor of Journalism and Media Communication Michelle Ancell. Most notably, as editor in chief of College Avenue Magazine, Kailey uses her gracious leadership style to create an outstanding publication and elevate others.
Learn more about Kailey’s story below:
1. Why did you choose to study at CSU?
“I chose CSU for many reasons. It was evident that the university had a welcoming environment and a positive community. That was something I wanted to be a part of. Fort Collins seemed like a really cool city, and I loved how integrated the campus was with the community. The variety of majors and the plethora of resources at CSU also interested me. I remember touring CSU as a high school junior and falling in love with the campus. As I researched other colleges during my senior year, no school seemed to compare to CSU.”
2. How has your background shaped your experience here at CSU, and what advice would you give to students of similar identities?
“Anaphylaxis has been a part of my life since I was eight months old. The consumption of dairy, eggs, peanuts, and hazelnuts causes my throat to swell up. Luckily, the Student Disability Center worked with me on an exemption from the dining plan so I could prepare my own food in the dorms. After this experience I didn’t hesitate to find the resources that I needed and solve a problem. My advice to future students would be that there will always be difficult situations, but college is where you learn how to take these situations on. CSU has a plethora of resources at our disposal so don’t be afraid to seek them out and use them, whether it’s an accommodation, a tutor, or technology.”
3. What accomplishments from your educational career at CSU are you most proud of? How were you able to accomplish those things?
“I am most proud of my accomplishments that have granted me experience in my journalism career path. Rocky Mountain Student Media offered me wonderful experiences and training in my career. I was honored to take up the role of Editor-in-Chief at College Avenue Magazine during my junior year. This opportunity helped cultivate my leadership and editing skills and provided me with opportunities to shape and grow the magazine. This year, College Avenue Magazine was a finalist for Best Student magazine for the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Awards. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without my valuable experiences in Student Media and the wonderful professors in the JMC Department.”
4. What has been the most challenging aspect of your educational career so far? How have you overcome those difficulties?
“In 2020, life changed for everyone. This was a huge challenge for us all and I remember the frustration, confusion, and need for flexibility during this educational experience. The pandemic helped me to be more flexible and adaptable to working with other people and grew my communications skills. I continued to focus on my passion for journalism, reporting on stories around the Fort Collins community about business owners, musicians, teachers, and professors who were all dealing with the pandemic. It grew my passion for storytelling and compassion as I listened to people’s stories and shared them with others.”
5. What are your post-graduation plans and goals?
“My goal is to work in magazines. I am currently freelancing as an editor and writer for publications like Greeley Lifestyle Magazine.”
