Opinion: The Oracle at USF Deserves Better – A Closer Look at Its Importance

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Candace Braun Davison, a former editor-in-chief of The Oracle, worked at the USF student newspaper from 2006 to 2009. She currently serves as the vice president of editorial content at PureWow, overseeing lifestyle stories and special projects. In 2023, she received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from USF. Davison credits her time at The Oracle for laying the foundation of her successful journalism career.

During an internship interview at a Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper, Davison’s experience at The Oracle played a crucial role. Despite facing skepticism about her choice of university, she credits the tenacious reporters at The Oracle for providing real-world experience that set her apart. Moving to New York to pursue a career in magazines, Davison found that the skills she gained at The Oracle were invaluable in a competitive industry.

Reflecting on her time at The Oracle, Davison highlights the importance of hands-on journalism experience in shaping her career. Working long hours in the newsroom, she learned to tackle a variety of stories, seek out sources, and refine her reporting skills. The rigorous environment of The Oracle served as a training ground, teaching Davison the importance of attention to detail and resilience in the face of criticism.

Despite facing challenges in the journalism industry, Davison’s experience at The Oracle helped her navigate difficult times and secure interviews during a recession. The practical skills she developed at the student newspaper, from writing and editing to layout design, proved invaluable in her professional journey. Davison acknowledges the importance of The Oracle in providing students with real-world experience and preparing them for the evolving landscape of digital journalism.

Davison emphasizes the need for continued support for The Oracle, highlighting the impact the newspaper has on students and their future careers. Encouraging donations through the USF Foundation, she urges alumni and supporters to help ensure the longevity and success of The Oracle. By investing in the student newspaper, Davison hopes to preserve its legacy and provide future generations of journalists with the same opportunities she had.

In conclusion, Candace Braun Davison’s journey from The Oracle to a successful career in journalism serves as a testament to the invaluable experience gained at the student newspaper. By recognizing the role of The Oracle in shaping her career, Davison advocates for continued support and investment in the future of student journalism at USF.

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https://www.usforacle.com/2024/05/28/guest-column-usfs-the-oracle-deserves-better-heres-why-it-matters/