Dani Matias, Founding Chapter - November 2019

What are you doing today and how did joining Kappa Phi Gamma Sorority, Inc. prepare you for this? I recently finished a Chips Quinn Fellowship (a program for diversity in journalism) on the News Desk with National Public Radio in Washington D.C. My older KPhiG sisters prepared me for my future by setting good examples and showing me what it takes to become successful. Through dedication and diligence, I mirrored their work ethic and earned my dream job for the summer.

What were your biggest challenges and struggles? My biggest challenges were learning how to navigate the adult world, overcoming imposter syndrome by believing in myself and staying motivated while planning my next career move. Being far away from my family was difficult but it helped me step out of my comfort zone, grow and be more independent. These struggles have shaped me into a better, more open-minded reporter.

What is your favorite part of your position/career/field? I love talking to strangers because they help me see the world differently. I talk to people with firsthand accounts in order to successfully gather information and provide facts in my reporting. My favorite part about radio journalism is being challenged and strictly producing content with sound. I strive to introduce topics that make listeners reflect, acknowledge inequality and promote change. This stems from my passion of diversifying the news and giving marginalized communities a platform to share their experiences. Aside from learning from others every day, I enjoy translating complex material into interesting, easily-digestible stories the public will remember and learn from. If you think about it, I am paid to be nosey!

What is your work/life balance? While at work, I focus on what I can control -- my attitude, reporting/writing and schedule. In order to unplug and unwind, I prioritize my mental health by taking breaks and treating myself once I feel accomplished. If I am overwhelmed, I read, workout, journal, listen to the Jonas Brothers, watch a Spanish show or hang out with my beautiful family to escape from a hectic, 24-hour news day. It also helps if you have a pet to come home to, and my cat Flacko is my entire world.

What do you perceive are the benefits of joining Kappa Phi Gamma Sorority, Inc.? The benefits of joining KPhiG are creating life-long, healthy friendships, learning about a new culture and having amazing role models to look up to. The sorority taught me how to equally balance my educational, professional and social life, be more self-aware, kind and confident in my own skin. The women I met in KPhiG were some of my biggest supporters. I am very thankful to have met a unique group of women who loved and embraced me in spite of our differences.

What advice do you have for women that are attempting to follow your career path? If your passion for storytelling is solid and genuine, don't allow other opinions and experiences to shape your own career path. Our job is difficult and exhausting, but what we do is unmatched and very rewarding. We are responsible for informing the public and holding those in power accountable for their actions. By giving a voice to the voiceless, we make a difference and change lives with every story that is published. Set goals for yourself, find POC allies/mentors and have an active voice in the industry. If you ever feel lost or unsure, remember to prioritize your needs and never forget the reason why you started writing in the first place.

How do you measure your success? I measure my success with happiness! My family has always said that as long as I am happy, they will be proud of me.