Kayla Huynh (MSJ21)

Reporter at The Capital Times

Tell us about your career path. How did you get where you are today?

I began working at the Cap Times shortly after graduating from Medill. I covered higher education for the paper for nearly three years before shifting to the K-12 beat. Prior to the Cap Times, I did freelance work in Chicago. I also studied journalism at UW-Madison.

What are your main responsibilities in your current role?

I cover all things education in Madison, Wisconsin. I write multiple articles a week and occasional cover stories for our weekly print edition. In addition, I’m teaching a reporting class at UW-Madison this fall.

How has your Medill training helped you in your career?

I’ve covered everything from crime to natural disasters. I’ve interviewed sources while kayaking, roller skating, hiking in the woods and dancing in the street. Medill gave me confidence in my reporting and taught me how to be prepared for any story that comes my way.

How has the Northwestern Medill network helped you advance in your career?

As a freelancer in grad school, my Medill credentials helped me get various stories published in Chicago news outlets. One of my references for my current job was also my Medill professor. He pushed me to stay on track in class.

How can your industry be more inclusive and representative of society?

I would love to see more programs that help underrepresented youth explore journalism. In Madison, we have a publication called Simpson Street Free Press, which is run by third grade through high school students. It’s a fantastic example of how to get young people involved in reporting. I’d also encourage newsrooms to further connect with their community outside of their daily reporting.  

How have your identities influenced the way you navigate your professional career?

As an Asian American, I grew up wishing to see myself reflected in media. I now use that as motivation in my own reporting. I strive to incorporate sources with multiple perspectives and different backgrounds in every story I write. That approach has given readers a fuller picture of our community.

What advice do you have for someone considering Medill? 

The instructors are high caliber! You’ll take classes from real pros and get the skills you need to navigate the industry. An added bonus: You’ll make lifelong friends. I met all of my best friends at Medill. Of course, you’re there to attend school (and Medill is a great one) — but the connections you create will make the experience even more worthwhile. It’s a special time, and it can be a lot of fun.