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Bloomsburg University Chosen for Select Role at College Journalism Convention

by Gianna Battaglia. Marketing and Communications intern

Bloomsburg, PA (04/06/2022) — Bloomsburg University student Matthew Poust (New Oxford, Pa.) was one of six student journalists selected to serve in the student newsroom at the annual College Media Association National Spring Convention in New York City from March 8-11.

Poust is a senior majoring in media and journalism and managing editor of BU's student newspaper, The Voice. Some of Poust's work consists of articles highlighting legal pitfalls faced by student media, navigating conflicts with university sports information departments, and finding news stories that fly under the radar. Poust was also responsible for writing the newsroom's convention wrap-up.

"I've just always enjoyed the process of journalism itself, mainly talking and interacting with people," said Poust. "Being able to find and report on news stories that people might find interesting and going through the article writing process to make a successful narrative out of it," said Poust. "It's something that tests me, and I face struggles with sometimes, but something I've really enjoyed."

Attending the College Media Association was one of the most impactful moments Poust has experienced in his years in college.

"The other reporters I worked with pushed me to produce noteworthy content, and the professionals I spoke with gave me hope that I too may have a chance at journalism as a career," said Poust, "The Voice' has often had reporters deliver presentations at the conference, but this was the first time in recent years, that one of its staffers was invited to join the student newsroom."

The faculty advisor for "The Voice," John-Erik Kolosky, recognizes the opportunities Poust has ahead of him.

"This was a great opportunity for Matt. He got to work alongside some of the country's most promising student journalists and make important contacts in the industry," said Kolosky.

Poust hopes to land a career in being paid for his journalism.

"My dream job would be writing feature pieces on those members of the public seldom heard from or about," said Poust. "People who have a story worth telling that often get passed upon because they are not in the public spotlight. Sort of our there or peculiar members of the public that bring something different to the plate. I grew up surrounded by these types of characters, and I have always liked conversing with them and picking their brains to find out what they are about."

With success also comes challenges. Poust recognizes the challenges of print media and student journalism today.

"The biggest challenge is the overall lack of interest. It has become challenging to get readers engaged in what is being written with all the different digital platforms that exist in today's world, along with a lack of interest from individuals to want to do actual journalism work," Poust stated, "We've certainly faced these struggles head-on at "The Voice." We've had problems getting new members added to our staff, and although we're still producing print editions, the lack of attention from BU students and staff is disappointing."

Bloomsburg University is one of 14 universities in Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education. The university serves approximately 7,600 students, offering comprehensive programs of study in five distinct colleges: College of Education, Zeigler College of Business, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science and Technology, and Honors College.

Media Attachments

Matt Poust works in the newsroom of the BU student newspaper "The Voice."

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