Sarah Wolpoff
Journalist
Science writer
Non-fiction storyteller
About Me
I am an enthusiastic early-career writer, currently based in mid-Michigan, pursuing a career in journalism, non-fiction storytelling and science communication. My professional goal has a clear focus: I want to do journalism that matters. Through combining research, storytelling, facts and developing exciting methods of engagement, I want to build a trusted relationship with the public and enlighten them about the important and remarkable stories, policy and science that impacts their community and lives.
Resume
Journalism Experience
Central Michigan Life
Central Michigan University's student operated media company, with news circulating to tens of thousands of people across the globe. Named "Best College News Paper" by the Michigan Press Association and received Pacemaker awards for several consecutive years.
Central Michigan Life: Reporter, February 2016- December 2016
● Covered news and events at an award-winning college newspaper, while developing skills as a beat reporter for the College of Science and Engineering. Established trusted relationships with sources and developed topic expertise.
● Created profiles and feature pieces of students and faculty, such as an article on a student who may have inspired creation of a new video game design program at Central Michigan University.
● Produced stories about scientific research and policy accessible to the layperson, including an article about revolutionary engineering advancements made by faculty and students.
Central Michigan Life: News Editor, December 2016- May 2017
● Managed and guided reporters by developing and assigning various story ideas while teaching journalistic practices and thinking, and acquiring knowledge and sources for beats on desk.
● Gained experience in writing headlines and captions. Strengthened writing and AP style proficiencies by developing strong editing skills.
● Actively participated in newsroom meetings by pitching story ideas and audience engagement methods. Developed news strategy while investigating a $20 million deficit at the university.
● Obtained social media strategy experience through posting and managing all stories from desk.
Croatian Natural History Museum
Croatian Natural History Museum: Intern, May 2017- August 2017
● Managed, wrote and edited content for “Mend the Gap” website, a Croatian research and educational advancement project. Produced photography and multimedia video content while gaining experience with Wordpress.
● Interviewed and developed features on researchers involved with “Mend the Gap” project.
● Pitched, created and managed social media accounts and strategy for “Mend the Gap,” to advance public awareness of project initiatives.
Organizations
Society of Professional Journalists
● Member of Central Michigan University’s chapter from September 2016-present.
National Association of Science Writers
● Student member from December 2015-present
Awards and Achievements
● Received a NASW Travel Fellowship to attend the 2017 AAAS conference and cover a scientific symposium of choice.
Other Experience
Equality Illinois
The largest civil rights activism non-profit organization in Illinois, focusing on the LGBTQ+ and gender equality.
Paid Intern, August 2010- May 2011
● Promoted equality and activism in Chicago, Illinois.
● Actively participated in registering voters.
● Raised funds by soliciting donations from local businesses for silent auction.
Riot Youth
An LGBTQ youth group based in Ann Arbor Michigan, dedicated to promoting social equality, equal rights activism and community awareness while providing a safe and supportive atmosphere for teens across Michigan.
Facilitator, August 2009-May 2010
● Facilitated group discussion while organizing meetings and community events.
● Published as contributing author in first student climate survey reaching all Ann Arbor area high schools addressing LGBTQ experiences and comfort in school.
Education
Central Michigan University
B.S in Journalism and Psychology
Expected graduation August 2017
Contact Me
4576 Comanche Dr
Okemos, MI 48858
Email: sarahwolpoff@gmail.com
Cell: 734-474-7408
Skype: swolpoff