by Taylor Stickles
The end of the school year can be a frightening time for seniors who are not sure what they want to do after graduation or have not yet landed the job they desire. This was not the case for Jessica Pace, ’18, a journalism and communication studies double major.
Long before Pace was scheduled to walk across the stage at graduation, she landed what she considered to be her dream job, as a producer for WPRI-TV 12, Eyewitness News in Providence, Rhode Island. Four years of hard work, internships, and, of course, determination led her to the success.
“I remember starting high school and promising myself that I would do everything with heart and dedication in order to achieve my goals,” Pace said. “With that mindset, I knew I would find my calling and my path; a new stepping stone every single day. All I wanted was to embark on a lifestyle that included no regrets, which would lead me to my future career.”
Pace spent her four years at URI doing everything she could to further her career in the world of journalism, both on and off campus. She wrote articles for Her Campus, became a student ambassador as a Harrington Ranger, and was elected Newscast Director/Producer of URI’s news station, The 5 Cent Cigar News. Her extensive on-campus involvement was supplemented by summer internships at News 12 Long Island and a semester-long internship at WJAR NBC10 Providence during her junior year.
Getting as involved as possible and having a busy schedule has always been important to Pace.
“I’m proud to say that I’m a professional multitasker,” she said. “After becoming comfortable and familiar with broadcast, it was time for me to take on the position as Newscast Director and Producer, where, on top of producing my own content weekly and preparing the newscast, I assigned stories to the reporters I was working with, helped them edit their content and approved their packages.”
Pace’s dedication to the field of journalism and go-getter attitude exemplify what it means to be a Harrington student. She was able to effectively supplement the skills she learned in the classroom with real-world experience from multiple internships and involvement on campus.
“Every single Harrington School class I have taken has honed my skills for my dream career,” Pace said. “The programs allow students to get true hands-on experience, which is extremely valuable while exploring your own major and solidifying one’s path.”
Although her time at URI ended, Pace is proud of all of her accomplishments and thankful for all of the opportunities the Harrington School has given her. Her advice to current students is valuable and captures her four years of experience at URI.
“Put yourself out there and step outside your comfort zone,” Pace said. “There is nothing better than landing that dream job and feeling on top of the world. Know your self-worth and go for your dream. Sky’s the limit, so take advantage of the resources you have.”