IU Grad Kevin Vera on the Passion and Purpose in Journalism
Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Kevin Vera would gravitate towards cameras and mimic the speech of a broadcaster with the dream of one day pursuing a career related to his interests.
“My mom would tell a joke that I would never stop talking. I’d go on little spiels about whatever I was thinking and was passionate about,” Vera said.
Vera, originally from Topeka, Kansas, lived in various states throughout his childhood. But no matter where he went, his love for journalism followed. Vera’s passion would lead him to graduate from IU Bloomington in 2025 with a major in Sports Media. He reflects on how his experiences at IU have strengthened his commitment to journalism.
During the winter of his freshman year, Vera took on the role of student broadcaster for IU’s student radio club called WIUX 99.1. From broadcasting sports games to …
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Students at IU’s Campus Speak on the Impact of Social Media
During the summer, students from across the United States visit Indiana University in Bloomington to attend lectures, conferences and internships. As they walk to their destinations, many are seen staring down at their cellphones—usually scrolling through social media.
According to research by the University of Maine, there are approximately 4.8 billion social media users worldwide. On average, people spend two hours and 24 minutes on these platforms each day. Social media allows individuals to create and share content while interacting with others in a fast-paced, internet-based environment.
With digital platforms becoming a dominant force in everyday life, students from both high school and IU reflected on the impact social media has had on them—sharing personal stories that highlight both the positives and the negatives of the technology.
“I think the connection aspect of social media …
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Dr. Brandon T. Wallace Speaks on the Connection Between Social Justice and Sports
On July 8th, 2025, Dr. Brandon Wallace stood before IU’s Bloomington’s High School Journalism Institute class at the Ernie Pyle Hall. He gave a press conference over his presentation, “My Past, Present, and Future”, in which he provided his perspective on the relationship between sports and social justice while elaborating on his upcoming projects.
Professor Wallace currently serves IU Bloomington as the assistant professor for the Cinema and Media Studies program. He obtained his B.A. at Bradley University with a major in Sociology and Sports Communication and furthered his education at the University of Maryland, receiving his MA and PHD in Physical Cultural Studies. With experience in researching the racial aspects in sports media, Professor Wallace highlighted to the high school journalists how sports mimics occurrences in society and the power substances to improve humanity.
“Looking at sport, we can understand a …
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