How to Make it Into The Major Market

From South Texas to The Big Leagues
By Sonia Vela

SAN MARCOS, TX­­­­ –– Elaine Aradillas, crime reporter at People Magazine, opens up to Texas State University students about her career path and how they too can become successful in journalism.

Photo Of Elaine Aradillas By Sonia Vela

Aradillas gradated from the University of Texas in 1999, with a Bachelor’s degree in art. Aradillas’ dream at the time was to become an art critic; little did she know she’d become the successful reporter she is now. Aradillas’ career experience consists of The Austin American-Statesman, Press-Enterprise, San Antonio Express-News, The New York Times, Orlando Sentinel, NAHJ Board of Directors, and now People Magazine. While pursuing her Bachelor's degree in art, Aradillas worked at San Antonio Express News. Aradillas says, “The access that a journalist gets is unbelievable.” Aradillas made sure to let students know that although she studied art she always knew journalism was for her. It all started in high school when she was a yearbook editor and did a 2-week workshop where she interviewed a young man in juvenile detention. Aradillas states, “I knew talking to someone and interviewing them, then telling their story, whatever that was, I wanted to do.”

Photo Of Elaine Aradillas and MassComm Students By Sonia Vela

After graduation, Aradillas used her contacts at The San Antonio Express-News to help her land her next job in journalism. She now works for Time, Inc., People Magazine in Los Angeles, California. Aradillas’ adds, “Here’s the thing with minorities and young people, we are so grateful to have this job, that you don’t ask for help, you don’t ask questions or makes waves because you just want the job. You earned the job, don’t for get that. If you get hired then you earned it.” Caitlin Buckman, MassComm major student shares, “Elaine Aradillas inspired me to continue my studies in journalism. Many people, including my parents, ask what am I going to do with my major. At first I’m at a loss on what to say but after listening to Elaine’s Mass Comm session I realize there is much I can do. Opportunity is out there, you just need to find it." The purpose of Texas State University's annual Mass Comm Week is to offer students the opportunity to peak into their future. The sessions offer insight from mass communication professionals who give personal advice on career advancement and trends. 

Sonia Vela is a public relations major at Texas State University.