With Features About First Responders, Organ Donors and More, Emma Benson is Using Her Storytelling Skills for Good
After graduating from BYU with a degree in journalism and equipped with experience from working as a reporter for the Daily Universe and Newsline, Emma Benson now works as a multimedia reporter for KSL, shooting, writing and editing her own stories. Learn more about the unique experiences the field of journalism has provided her with below.
I have always loved writing and storytelling. When I was young, I would write and illustrate my own stories. I didn’t seriously consider journalism as a career until I got to BYU. I loved the news classes I took and was able to write for the Daily Universe and produce, anchor and report for Newsline. BYU provided me with tremendous learning opportunities and hands-on experiences that helped me feel prepared to enter the world of journalism.
I’ve been fortunate to cover several memorable stories. Recently I got to spend the day with Intermountain’s Life Flight team. I was honored to help give others a glimpse into a day in the life of these heroic first responders. Plus, I got my first chopper ride!
In Idaho Falls I anchored the morning show and produced/anchored the noon show for two years; at KSL I am a reporter/multimedia journalist — I shoot, write and edit my own stories. I think a compelling story is both relevant and relatable. I do my best to use less of my own voice and let others tell their own stories.
The schedules in TV news aren’t ideal! Don’t ask me how I — a non-morning person — anchored a morning show for two years. That daily 3 a.m. alarm wasn’t easy, but I knew what I was doing was important and that people counted on me to inform them of the news of the day.
Earlier this year, I interviewed a Utah mother who had a heart transplant and was finally going to be able to meet the family of her organ donor. I got to be there for the emotional, heartfelt reunion and capture it all on camera.
In such a divisive, complicated world, I think people crave good news; I strive to share uplifting, inspirational stories whenever I can. I love being a storyteller and a source of information and truth for the community. I want to continue to strive to be a better journalist and am looking forward to seeing where my career takes me.
