Journalism Senior Courtney Norris, a member of Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority, says her sisters have continually been there for her throughout her time at The University of Texas, motivating her to be more successful and better pursue her goal of becoming a journalist.

“I think that my sorority has helped me build a foundation to have a successful college career and I think that I owe a lot to my sisters, when it comes to my success and never giving up,” Norris said. “Always having people to read my stuff or pitch to, it’s really helpful.”

Norris works as a sports reporter for The Daily Texan, one of UT’s student newspapers. She’s also worked for The Horn, another UT student publication, and had the opportunity this past summer to report on news from around the city of Dallas, her hometown, through an internship at WFAA-TV, Channel 8.

She said what she likes most about journalism is its importance in helping others and the unique role of a journalist.   

“I like the responsibility and the pride I get from keeping people informed,” Norris said.  “And, I like how journalism has a standard of ethics, in the sense that you don’t really pick a side. Your job as a journalist is just to deliver unbiased news, and I really like the freedom that comes with that.” 

Norris said in one of her first experiences as a reporter, when she was covering news for The Horn, she was able to cover an important story, something that showed her the impact of the profession. 

“I actually broke a story about a West Campus creeper, who was creeping in people’s windows and things,” Norris said. 

She said her experience at UT has been very positive, something she largely attributes to her involvement in her sorority and other campus organizations. Norris said getting involved is a tip she would give to all UT students. 

“I think that no matter what people choose to get involved in, you really should be involved in something, because I think that community involvement really leads to success,” Norris said. 

She said by being heavily involved in Greek life and student journalism, she’s had opportunities to help others that she just couldn’t have gotten elsewhere. 

“I think it teaches you to be a part of a team and work as a team,” Norris said.  “It requires you to focus and really serve this community in a positive way.”

Norris said she plans to graduate from UT in May and hopes to pursue a career as a news reporter for a city station. She said she’s not picky about where, but more focused on rising through the ranks, so that she can someday report on international affairs.