Bristol, R.I., native wins $60,000 scholarship, headed to top journalism school
Q: When did you decide that you wanted to pursue journalism as a career?
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Biancuzzo:
I decided to pursue a career in journalism after enrolling in Barrington High School's television production,
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You're off to the University of Missouri, which has one of the most prestigious journalism programs in the country. What made you choose to become a Tiger?
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A multitude of reasons. After applying to 12 different universities and having many opportunities at hand, I was at a crossroads of not knowing which college to enroll in. I explored each university while in search of what made their journalism program unique, and when researching and touring Mizzou, I fell in love with their
This method includes a hands-on approach from one's first day of classes – an opportunity to learn by doing. In addition to this method, I also was drawn to the community at Mizzou as it is a big school with a tight community feel.
If you could cover any story in the world right now, what would it be?
The Russia-Ukraine War. We are indirectly involved with several wars worldwide. My empathy and focus at this time of my life is drawn toward the many experiences on the ground of all sides, rather than the politicians and the military. With this opportunity I would fly to the Ukraine and talk to the civilians there who are affected by it on a daily basis. I would want to sit down with them and ask how this war changed their lives, specifically people within my age range. While I am afforded the opportunity to receive a higher education, I would like to know how young people in war-torn countries are handling the realities of war. Are they able to receive higher education? Are they even able to finish school? This chance would mean learning more, not just for my own curiosity, but for the world to know the hardships they are enduring.
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What's the No. 1 thing journalists (and readers) should know about your generation?
Gen Z is a generation filled with passion and curiosity. I may not be able to speak for my entire generation, but I can speak for both myself and those closest to me, that our generation is a strong one, often equipped with grit to face challenges. We have faced many hardships already with not only coming of age during the time of COVID-19, but also maturing during a time of various wars taking place overseas and experiencing political unrest in our own divided country. We have seen fundamental rights taken away, and, with that, we have risen to the occasion. I want readers and other journalists to look at my generation and know that we are strong and not afraid to have our voices heard.
Let's flash forward 10 years. Where will we find Scarlett Biancuzzo?
In 10 years, I'll be pursuing a successful career in journalism. It is my goal to have a career by this time, working for a large news network as a broadcast journalist. Broadcast journalism is truly an open-ended career with countless opportunities that I plan to take, head-on.
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Dan McGowan can be reached at
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