Sara R. Lawson
Why 'media'
Media is that which is in-between. My greatest strength is that I'm constantly seeking ways to encourage and facilitate communication - be that in written text or over the phone or through a spreadsheet. A message is only as clear as the medium allows.
While newsprint and web publishing were my (gluten-free) bread and butter, I am familiar with media production in all its forms, having been behind the camera and at the business end of a microphone.
I'm no longer an active part of the media, but the hard and soft skills I learned have been invaluable in my professional growth: timeliness, being accurate, fact-checking, seeking primary sources and asking the right and hard questions.
Media is that pivotal point between the sender and recipient of a message. Communication would not happen without a medium. My favorite thing is to use the strengths of a medium to made that message clear, interesting and relevant.
Education and Skills
I have a bachelor's degree in Digital Media Production and a master's degree in Communication from the University of Central Missouri.
What I can do:
Copywriting and editing
Scheduling and deadline management
Communications
Microsoft/Google Docs
Attention to detail
AP style
SEO and UX
What I am:
Organized
Analytical
Critical
Writer
Writing has always been my strength and I am always looking for ways to improve. I truly appreciate how the written word can translate meaning into understanding, from news alert notifications to centuries-old text. It is one of the most versatile tools we have.
I've recently started a blog, mostly to keep my hands busy. Feel free to take a look.
Fun Fact: In 2022, I was awarded an Honorable Mention during the Missouri Press Association Awards for best news story by a weekly publication.
Reader
Reading is just as important to me as writing. My daily routine includes catching up on the news and then catching up on the news about news media. I firmly believe that there is always room for improvement in my writing and in the industry as a whole.
I enjoy reading classics, murder mysteries and fantasy short stories., though I've been known to be tempted by a piece of non-fiction. I'm currently reading Cooked by Michael Pollan, a non-fiction romanticized look into how food is made through the lens of the four classical elements. Great read for any foodie.