College Experiences That Helped A Senior Editor National News At Newsweek Succeed
Jenni's undergraduate success wasn't tied to traditional internships or major choices, but rather to "going off on [her] own"— studying in Arizona and then Paris, forcing a development of self-confidence and the understanding that "[no matter] where [she] go[es]...[she] will be fine". These experiences instilled a valuable lesson: the ability to adapt and succeed in unfamiliar environments, a skill highly transferable to a demanding career in national news.
Confidence, Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Adaptability, Self-reliance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jenni Fink
Senior Editor, National News
Newsweek Magazine
University of Arizona, 2013
N/a
Communications
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Creative
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Embracing unfamiliar environments: Jenni emphasizes the importance of stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Her experiences in Arizona and Paris, where she knew no one, fostered self-confidence and adaptability—crucial skills in navigating a dynamic career.
2. Developing self-reliance: By independently navigating new and challenging situations, Jenni cultivated resourcefulness and the ability to thrive in uncertain circumstances. This highlights the value of proactive self-sufficiency in professional life.
3. Overcoming fear of change: Jenni's experiences instilled in her a belief in her ability to adapt and succeed in any environment. This perspective is invaluable for navigating career transitions and challenges.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
I think this is a question I've really been struggling with because I'm not sure there's anything I did in the traditional sense of an internship, picking a major, or even a connection I made. The best things I did in undergrad were going off on my own.
I am from New Jersey and went to school in Arizona, across the country, where I didn't know anyone. Then I studied abroad in Paris, and I didn't know a soul there. I was the only person from my school.
Going there both times was really intimidating, and it really forced me to be confident in my own abilities and to put myself out there, which I think is a really undervalued lesson people can learn. It's really difficult to put yourself into unknown situations and to blaze your own trail.
I don't really consider myself an adventurous person, but those two adventures really gave me a lesson that shaped my life: no matter where I go or what opportunity I take, I will be fine. I'll find people I fit in with and I'll succeed, and I don't need to be afraid of those changes.