An interview with Simmons senior Rachel Andriacchi ’24.
What are the most impactful things you've done over the last four years?
Last fall, I went to the Society of Professional Journalists convention in Las Vegas to work as a reporter in their student newsroom. This introduced me to a style of fast-paced, breaking journalism, and allowed me to be at the center of some huge stories — including the arrest of the suspect in the 1996 murder of rapper Tupac Shakur — and gave me the opportunity to meet amazing student and professional journalists from across the country. The experience added another layer to my strong desire to chase a career in journalism, despite the discouraging way the industry seems to be moving right now. It gave me hope for a successful future.
Did you have internships or travel as part of your studies?
I have had an internship every semester for the past two years! They have all been amazing ways to explore my interests — as well as find out what I don't really care for — build my resume, and make connections with various professionals. I have had the opportunity to work under the guidance of people with exceptionally wide breadths of knowledge and experience who have taught me what it means to work in the communications field.
This semester, I’m working at WCVB Channel 5 as the Digital News Production and Assignment Desk Intern. Though written journalism is truly where I feel like I thrive, working the digital desk for TV news has exposed me to a whole other side to the industry that I otherwise might not have had the opportunity to learn about.
What is your favorite Simmons memory?
I moved into the dorms in the spring of 2021 when classes were still online. I was a little nervous about getting lonely due to COVID restrictions and not knowing how social interactions would work before vaccines were even available to me, but I ended up having an amazing semester. That winter, it snowed pretty regularly, so a couple friends and I would go out to play in the snow at Riverway a lot of the evenings we didn't have class or work. It was a great way to explore the city a little bit, get accustomed to the snow as a Californian, and make some new friends, one of whom is currently my roommate and one of my best friends.
How has Simmons taught you to be a leader?
I have learned two very important things about leadership over my time at Simmons. Knowing how to step up and take charge when necessary will get you very far in life, but it is also not everyone's favorite thing to do, and that's fine! I don’t gravitate towards leadership roles, but I feel confident in my ability to lead if I need to. Leading comes more naturally to me thanks to the experiences I’ve had throughout college, and doesn’t seem as daunting as it used to.
Advice for new/prospective students?
Your professors are amazing resources. They have great connections and advice, and are more than happy to share those with you! Take advantage of as many opportunities as you can, but do your best not to burn yourself out. College is a time to explore your interests, have fun, make new friends, and find your passion. Make sure you're saving some time for yourself outside of your studies and work wherever you can.