"Read, every day, something no one else is reading. Think, every day, something no one else is thinking. Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do. It is bad for the mind to be always part of unanimity." -- Christopher Morley
Meet WLTX digital producer and assignment editor Tabitha Corley.
Corley is a Spring 2015 graduate of Winthrop University. While a student, she majored in broadcast journalism and was able to gain and contribute a variety of skills to different organizations and learning experiences.
Over the course of her four years as an undergrad, Corley was able to intern with "The Aiken Standard," "Imara Woman Magazine," Tom Joyner Morning Show "Inside Her Story" Segment, and "New York Live."
She also studied abroad in Costa Rica for a semester. Over the course of her media career, Corley was able to meet actor/comedian Marlon Wayans, Cedric the Entertainer and TV One founder Cathy Hughes and others.
Check out her Q/A below:
Shakora Bamberg: Tell me a little bit about yourself.
Tabitha Corley: I am originally from a small town called Wagner, SC, where there is one stop light and one franchise restaurant, Subway. It was in middle school when I realized that I wanted to go into the media industry. I used to love reading different magazines and staying up to date on current events. It came in handy that my dad made it a routine to watch the evening news and subscribe to "EBONY Magazine," "Newsweek," and "Sports Illustrated."
In my high school, I participated in various activities. I was the flute section leader in the Wagener-Salley High School band where we consecutively competed in State championships. I also placed in all-state concert band. I also was a part of the Beta Club, a cheerleader, senior class president, and graduated salutatorian in 2011.
SB: Tell me about your role at Winthrop including any leadership roles, recognition, and positions you held while a student at WU.
TC: Throughout my fours years atWinthrop, I was a part of DSU, Winthrop Association of Black Journalists, Video Production Club and a contributor for The Roddey-McMillan Record. I also earned a few journalism scholarships.
SB: What is one thing that you love about Winthrop and why did you choose Winthrop?
TC:I love the sense of community. I chose Winthrop because when I asked different people about the school, I only heard good things. The campus' look/diversity caught my eye as well. It was a great choice that I made.
SB: Of all the roles, what would you say is the most important that has shaped you into a better young woman?
TC: I wouldn’t say that me being a part of one particular organization helped me more than the other. I was able to contribute to and learn a lot from each one. Within WUABJ, I learned about professionalism within the media industry and networking skills. Within DSU, I was able to learn the value of teamwork and how when everyone works together, goals can be accomplished. Within VPC I learned how to shoot and edit. With the RMR I honed my writing skills.
SB: What advice do you have for young college women who are entering the same work profession as you?
TC: I would say to learn as much as you can and try out different areas of media: TV, print, digital, photography, social media, etc. and figure out exactly what it is that you like doing. This is where I am in life and honestly. I am still figuring out exactly what it is that I want to do.
To the incoming freshman, my advice would be to never turn down an opportunity unless you absolutely can’t do the job. You just never know who you could end up meeting, what you could end up learning, or what it could lead to.
Along with my skills and work ethic, it comes in handy knowing and working with different people within the industry that can help you along the way in your career. On the other hand, you may even be the help that someone else needs. Basically, networking and maintaining professional relationships are a major key.
SB: Who would you consider to be your role model within the media/entertainment industry?
TC: I would have to say I have three ladies that I consider role models they are:
- Michelle Obama (intelligence and ambition)
- Beyoncé (work ethic, risk taker)
- Oprah Winfrey (vision)
SB: What advice would you give to students who are about to graduate college?
TC: Enjoy the gap between graduation and landing your first job. Do not rush into a job right after graduating. Once you start working, it is hard to live as carefree, for me at least. Vacation days are limited and bills are real.
SB: What is an interesting thing that you have done in your life?
TC: - Bungee jumped in the mountains in Costa Rica is the craziest thing I’ve ever done
- During the spring semester of my junior year, I studied abroad in Costa Rica. I went there and completed my Spanish minor.
- Three months after studying abroad, I started my internship at “New York Live” in New York City with NBCUniversal
SB: Tell me about your role as a producer at WLTX.
TC: At WLTX I am a digital producer and an assignment editor. Each day I help create and post engaging and informative content on our website and on social media. I also pitch ideas and assignment them to reporters and photographers.
RADIO - For a year I have been a contributor for the syndicated J. Anthony Brown Show. On the show, I keep my uncle up to date on the latest trending topics and current lingo.
I also help Jacque Reid produce the ‘Inside Her Story’ segment on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. I enjoy pitching ideas and booking guest for the syndicated show which reaches 8 million listeners tuning in to show. Some of my favorite guests that I helped book are educator Jane Elliot, Lezley McSpadden (mom of Michael Brown), gymnast Nastaysa Generalova, and chef Melba Wilson.
PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEOGRAPHY - I would consider photography/videography a fun hobby of mine. I am also a part-time wedding videographer. I work for a company that is based out of Greenville, SC so it allows me to go on a mini adventure when I have a wedding. I have traveled up mountains, gone to vineyards and lakes in the upstate. I love capturing the beautiful scenes and the couples’ beautiful wedding day.
SB: Some of Corley's work.
SB: Corley is a member of The Queen Photographers of SC
SB: What is an interesting fact about you?
TC: I love to travel and wish I could do it more. Venturing out and exploring new areas is fun. I took my first plane ride when I was 6 and we went to Los Angeles. So far I’ve been to 3 countries and 12 states plus DC.
Corley's determination and consistent work ethic continue to speak on her behalf as she embarks on her journey as a well-rounded journalist. Corley's favorite quote to live by is: “Be grateful, not content”
If you'd like to learn more about Corley check out her website at:
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