Blake Uhlig is a strategic communications senior and served as Editor-in-Chief for Student Publications for the 2021-2022 year. He will be graduating this May.
How long have you worked for Student Publications?
I started in the fall semester as a news staff writer. I was quickly promoted to Sports Editor, and then to Editor-in-Chief.
What has been your favorite part of serving Student Publications?
For me, serving Student Publications has been an absolute honor. I’ve learned so much about our university. As a commuter, I have not been involved in any other activities or organizations, so fitting into OCU hasn’t been as simple of a process for me. There is so much more to our university than I initially thought; it is filled with so many different organizations and interesting people that I am glad to have covered.
Why do you think Student Publications, as an organization, is important?
Journalism is incredibly important to our university. It gives students a voice and can also hold people accountable to finish projects and stay true to their promises. Most importantly Student Publications keeps a record of what has occurred, spotlights events and people, and serves as a historical record for all of these interesting things that have happened [at our campus].
What do you like writing about the most and why?
I like to write stories that are focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, those that give a voice to minorities, events, and experiences that may not otherwise be covered. Equity is absolutely vital. It is important for our university to value equity and represent our diverse student body.
Do you have a teacher or mentor that inspired you during your time at OCU?
When Beth Adele joined the Mass Communications Department, my time at OCU changed for the better. She had been an incredible professor and advisor. It is hard to imagine my time here without her.
What is your biggest piece of advice for underclassmen and incoming students?
I would advise them to get involved! Take a look at organizations and events around campus. I’ve noticed that information on certain events tends to be released late, so you’ll have to take time to dig…but it’s worth it. Make opportunities for yourself to grow, expand, evolve, and take part in developing our campus. My senior year would have been so boring if I hadn’t joined Student Publications!
What are your plans for after graduation? Would you like to continue working in the media?
I want to continue a career in media, yes. After graduation, I plan on going to France to enroll in some intensive language courses. Along with exploring my French heritage, fluency in French will open many doors for me in the field of journalism.
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