Finding my voice
Autumn VanMeter served as intern with the Midwest City Beacon this summer. She will be a senior this fall at Oklahoma State University. Photo by Jeff Harrison
An internship, study abroad experiences and new challenges helped shape my future
By Autumn VanMeter
Midwest City Beacon
If someone had asked me a few years ago where I saw myself, I probably wouldn’t have said writing feature stories for my local newspaper. When I began my education at Oklahoma State University, I knew I wanted a career that would allow me to connect with people. What I didn’t know was how those interests would come together.
At Oklahoma State, I am majoring in marketing with a minor in international business and a focus in communications management. During the spring semester, I earned a place on the Dean’s Honor Roll, an accomplishment that reinforced the value of hard work and perseverance. Every class has challenged me in different ways and helped me develop both professionally and personally.
This summer, I had the opportunity to join the Midwest City Beacon as an intern staff writer. Covering community events and interviewing local residents pushed me outside my comfort zone. When I first started, I was nervous about asking the right questions and worried about accurately telling someone’s story. With each interview, I became more confident in starting conversations, listening carefully and writing stories that reflect people’s experiences with honesty and respect.
One of the most meaningful parts of my college experience has been studying abroad. I previously studied in Italy, where I explored historic cities, experienced a new culture and learned that meaningful communication extends beyond language. That experience inspired me to continue broadening my perspective, and I am excited to study abroad in Australia this December. I believe those experiences will prepare me for a career in today’s global business environment.
After graduation, I hope to build a career in marketing and communications that combines creativity, strategy and storytelling. Whether I’m developing marketing campaigns, creating content or building relationships, I want my work to connect with people in meaningful ways.
Looking back on my college experience so far, the greatest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of saying yes to new opportunities. Whether interviewing someone for the Beacon, studying in another country or challenging myself in the classroom, every experience has helped me become more confident and given me a clearer sense of where I want to go.
As I continue my education, I’m excited to see where those experiences lead. No matter where my career takes me, I hope to keep learning, telling meaningful stories and building lasting connections with the people and communities I serve.
