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Journalism student secure in his career path

Adam Campbell

While many kids his age were just beginning to discover their interests, Adam Campbell was preparing for life as a journalist. 

“I was always interested in writing,” Campbell said.

 “When I was younger, I was kind of disappointed with journalism.  I would say to myself, ‘How would I have done that differently?’ or, ‘What sources would I have talked to?’” he said.  

 Campbell began working for his high school newspaper during his sophomore year.  “My senior year I was editor-in-chief,” he said.  His interest in journalism carried over into college. 

“I figured, I can do this job as good as anyone else or probably better,” Campbell said.  With each journalism class, he felt more comfortable and excited about journalism. 

“I got more of a high off of it after each class,” Campbell said. 

Campbell went on to write for The Spectator, UW-Eau Claire’s bi-weekly student newspaper, in the spring of 2000.  It allowed him to see what types of responsibilities a reporter has to his newspaper and readers. 

“I realized that I had to prepare for some stories way ahead of time instead of waiting until the last minute,” Campbell said. 

Campbell spent last summer freelancing for the Press Star, a Fox Valley newspaper for the towns of New London and Hortonville.  There he gained valuable experience covering the education and police beats. 

Ultimately, Campbell would like to become an international correspondent for a nationally known newspaper like the New York Times or Chicago Tribune.  Then he would use his recognition to become a short story author. 

Campbell also enjoys traveling.  He studied abroad last semester in France and considers it one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. 

“Personally, I think to feel the whole college experience it was necessary for me to study abroad," Campbell said.  "It allows you to identify what you like about your own culture."