Name: Lauren LaMontagne
Major: Journalism
Hometown: Laguna Beach, California
Dream Job: To write for a world-renowned magazine or journalism/public relations department for a large company.

Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because it was a school away from home. So I knew I was getting into a new environment that was different than what I had grown up in. On top of that, when narrowing down my options for schools, TCU had the culture that I was looking for in a school. I felt as though I would be in an environment where I could challenge myself without being a small fish in a big pond.

Why did you decide to major in journalism?
It took me a very long time to decide on a major. Ultimately, I realized how strong my love for writing has always been. The only thing I know is that in my career I want to write. I know my journalism degree will give me a platform to affect the world around me in a positive way.

Have you had any internships related to your major?
I had a marketing internship where I utilized journalism skills constantly. Interning for the marketing department at Rip Curl USA, I worked alongside people in team management, e-commerce, graphic design, marketing communication, and media management. Through my internship, I learned how open my options are with a journalism degree and English and business minors.

What is your favorite place to eat in Fort Worth?
If I had to pick one place it would probably be Joe T Garcia’s. I love the open, inviting environment of the restaurant and I always enter and leave happy. Also, nothing beats their tortillas.

What is one class that you would recommend to everyone in journalism?
From the classes I have taken that are not required, I would recommend taking Interactive Communication Design. This elective intertwines journalism with the importance of coding. This class has made me realize how complex journalism is today. Gaining the basic knowledge of coding has made me so much more confident in my abilities that will benefit me in the modern journalism work force.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your first-year self?
I would tell my first-year self that it is never too late to change your major or take new classes.

Click here to learn more about the journalism major at TCU.