NBC White House correspondent and Virginia Commonwealth University alum, Aaron Gilchrist, recently shared his insights with students during a Q&A session at his alma mater. Gilchrist emphasized the importance of journalism, stating, “Our job is to watch people in power and make sure there’s an awareness about what’s going on.”
During the session hosted by VCU’s Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture, Gilchrist spoke about the art of storytelling in journalism, highlighting the blend of science and art in the profession. He expressed his passion for meeting people and hearing their stories, describing it as a fulfilling aspect of his career.
Nancy Kent Smith, who introduced Gilchrist at the event, praised his dedication and aptitude for the field, recalling his time at Richmond’s NBC affiliate where she worked as the vice president of news. She commended Gilchrist's grit, tenacity, and intelligence, which have contributed to his success in broadcasting.
Reflecting on his time at VCU, Gilchrist credited the university for providing him with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in storytelling. He mentioned that his decision to attend VCU was influenced not only by its academic offerings but also by the opportunity to kickstart his career in a media-rich environment.
Gilchrist recounted his journey from a student working part-time at WWBT to becoming a full-time news anchor, both at the local Richmond station and later in Washington, D.C. He highlighted the dynamic nature of journalism, stating that no two days are alike and sharing anecdotes of memorable assignments, including a humorous encounter with an adopted pig during an interview.
Acknowledging the challenges of the profession, especially during intense events like the Virginia Tech shooting in 2007, Gilchrist emphasized the importance of staying committed to the job despite the stress and demanding hours. He advised aspiring journalists to maintain their curiosity and find joy in the work, despite its demanding nature.
In closing, Gilchrist encouraged students to embrace the rewarding aspects of journalism, reminding them that amidst the hard work, there are moments of fun, adventure, and human connection. He emphasized the public service aspect of journalism and the significance of storytelling in keeping people informed and engaged.
