Journalism & Mass Communication

Matt Drange

Year Graduated:

2011

Senior Correspondent

Job description

I report on money and power in Silicon Valley. I'm always looking for important stories that powerful interests would rather keep secret, and I often use documents to help me tell them. My work has been recognized with dozens of journalism awards and in 2019 I was named the best young business journalist in the country by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose Humboldt State's small but mighty Journalism program because I knew I'd have opportunities early and often to learn the skills needed to tell important stories. I got that and so much more in my four years on campus. HSU's close relationship with the community proved invaluable, and was a welcome change of pace for me coming from a major metro area in Southern California.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

HSU Journalism prepared me so much for my first job that I landed it (as a staff reporter at the Eureka Times-Standard) before I even graduated! I attended the Columbia Journalism School the following year, where I earned my Master's Degree. But the skills I've used most in the decade since are ones I honed at Humboldt State.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

Journalism faculty keep Bret Harte buzzing with energy and enthusiasm for earnest, authentic journalism. I never stopped learning from them, either, and still seek advice from both former professors and fellow alumni today.

Job description

Why did you choose this program?

How did this program prepare you for your job?

What did you enjoy most about the program?

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?