Hi! My name is Andi Shae, and I have a passion for storytelling

I am a journalist with the desire to breathe life into stories. Whether it be hard news, a colorful feature, or an insightful ed-op, I believe writing allows people to speak in powerful ways and I want to grow to harness it.

I aim to make readers feel as captivated reading my stories as I feel witnessing them. With its many angles, quips and quotes, journalism has room for the biggest victories and the most heartbreaking tragedies; I am so excited to begin my journey of writing them all.

about me

My family’s chosen currency is storytelling. Whether it’s a packed house for Christmas dinner or a lazy Sunday morning, stories are always being shared with wide eyes and lighthearted voices. I fell in love with the art of storytelling when I was young and I became captivated by the power words hold over people.

I began writing stories of my own and exploring creative writing before I knew what journalism even was. When my dad told me about the profession of unveiling stories to the world- stories nobody had ever heard before- I knew it was what I was supposed to do.

I was hugely influenced by stories like Marisa Kwiatkowski’s expose on Larry Nassar, and Julie K. Brown’s investigative work on Jeffery Epstein. I see breakthrough stories like the New York Times’ work on Harvey Weinstein as the truest triumphs of journalism and I strive to uphold such values and work ethics.

My sophomore year of college I heard about a Justice for Janes march being held on Liberty University’s campus. Intrigued, I began to research the cause behind the outrage only to become up in arms myself. Despite only having digital media classes under my belt, I didn’t hesitate to write an article on the allegations Liberty was facing. I posted it to my X page not thinking anyone would see it, so when the news editor of the Champion found it and recruited me to the paper the next night, I simply could not believe it.

I have stepped out of my comfort zone and played into my strengths; I leave readers knee-deep in detail of protests, and write out entire life experiences in satisfying tales. I’m ready to dive into community, ask questions, and be open to learning and growing in every way. I’m ambitious, passionate, and have much to learn, but I’m ready to be a journalist.

Portfolio

revolution, mary!