#SDSUGrad: Kaitlyn Little

San Diego State University’s community has shown its true resilience during this unprecedented and difficult time in human history. 

Graduates from the Class of 2020, in particular, have risen to the challenge.

In this series, we highlight graduates as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, including those who have secured jobs and internships or are moving into advanced studies. SDSU Career Services continues to offer resources for students, including the new online career platform Handshake and expanded virtual programming and advising.

Kaitlyn Little
Major: Journalism with a minor in anthropology Campus affiliations: The Daily Aztec

Can you describe a bit about yourself and how/when you decided to pursue journalism?

I decided to pursue journalism when I transferred to SDSU. I had initially started my time here as a communications major. This was already a huge shift from what I wanted to do during high school, which was biology. However, I found I had a passion for writing and storytelling. I liked giving people a platform that they might not otherwise have. After joining The Daily Aztec and later being promoted to news editor, I was set on becoming a journalist.

When did you start your job search and how long was it before you received a job offer?

I started my job search in early March. I had spoken to network connections about when would be the best time to begin looking because this was my first time applying for a full-time job. I applied to a few places and interviewed several times. I ended up accepting an offer as a news producer at KSBY in San Luis Obispo by March 19. The process went by very quickly. 

What did your job search entail and what were you specifically looking for when searching job openings? 

In the news business, it’s important to put your name out there as much as possible. I applied to different places across the nation, ranging from California to New York. During my time at SDSU, I went to many journalism networking events and talked to any and every journalist I could. I also interned at ABC 10News, which was super helpful for getting a perspective of what the field is like. I specifically looked into different broadcast networks and the news stations themselves. 

What was your reaction when you received the official job offer?

I was elated! I’m super excited to begin working as a news producer. It’s what I’ve wanted to go into since I interned. I’m also super happy I get to stay in California, where my family is, because most journalists have to move out of state for their first job.

What advice do you have for fellow students, regardless of their field, looking to jump start their career and land their first job post-graduation?

Networking is essential. You can gain so much just from talking to people. By making those connections, you’re able to get help. It makes a difference when you’re applying for a company and you know someone who also works there, they can put in a good word for you and it can be the deciding factor between you and another candidate. 

What are you most looking forward to as you kick start this next chapter?

I’m looking forward to focusing more specifically on producing. I love the passion and energy in broadcast journalism. I’m also excited to see more of California! I moved here when I was younger, so I’ve only had the pleasure of seeing mostly Southern California. I love this state and I can’t wait for this next adventure.