When I joined The Daily Illini as a contributing writer in spring 2025, I didn’t expect how quickly my life would change. What started as an opportunity to get involved turned into a role that challenged me to grow as both a writer and editor.
After one semester as a staff writer in Arts & Entertainment, I was promoted to one of two Senior Reporters in the section. In that role, I’ve been able to combine my passion for writing and music, immersing myself in the local scene while continuing to develop my voice as a journalist.
Now, I’m excited to share that beginning April 1, I will be stepping into a new role as Arts & Entertainment Editor for the publication — an opportunity to continue growing while helping shape the section moving forward.
highlights!
This was a feature story I wrote on Pete Shungu, a local musician and professor in the Champaign-Urbana area. I spoke with Shungu about his passion for education, his approach to blending musical genres and how those ideas come through on his latest album.
One of my favorite parts of covering arts & entertainment on campus is getting to talk with so many talented people. I’m always drawn to the “why” behind their work — what inspires them, what they hope audiences take away and how their personal experiences shape what they create.
With this story, I especially loved the chance to highlight how Shungu used his own experiences to create music rooted in hope and connection, while also engaging with broader social and political themes.
A big perk of this role is being able to freely explore the Champaign-Urbana music scene. With so many local artists and venues, there’s always something happening and no shortage of shows to choose from.
In September 2025, I had the opportunity to cover two shows at PYGMALION, an annual music festival in Urbana. Through that experience, I was introduced to the music of Hannah Cohen, which was a highlight of the weekend.
When covering live events, I love hearing the music in real time and letting my thoughts on the sound and atmosphere flow onto my notepad. Translating what I’m experiencing in real time into a story keeps the process exciting, especially when paired with conversations with audience members who share their own reactions to the performance. These stories are often written immediately after a show ends, making quick turnaround an essential part of the process.
I’m not always writing about music. This was a particularly fun story to work on, previewing an upcoming production of “Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue” at the Virginia Theatre — a drag adaptation that reimagines the iconic sitcom with a modern twist.
I was able to interview some of the cast members, which made for a really fun conversation about their process as actors and how they bring new life to such a well-loved show. Getting to explore how they balance nostalgia with a fresh, comedic approach was a highlight of reporting this piece.