Hi, I'm McKenzie!
I'm a fan of many things. I'm obsessed with French Bulldogs. I can't travel enough. You can frequently find me in the kitchen cooking up a new recipe. But most central to my identity is that I am a content creator.
The aspect I enjoy most about being a creator is not the look of the final product, but the story held within. To me, being a creator means capturing stories, experiences, beliefs and bringing these truths to light.
This mindset isn't new to me---I have been creating since childhood. Growing up in the early period of Youtube, I spent many days tucked away in my home computer room creating and editing short skits for my channel. Windows Movie Maker, anyone?
I continued pursuing my passion for creative storytelling in college as a student journalist. I took a variety of media production courses and told stories through a variety of mediums. A couple of my highlights include a mini-documentary on the effects of social media and a dining review of "Sketch," one of London's most famous and eclectic restaurants. Head on over to my "Videography" and "Blog" pages to check out these pieces.
Outside of class, I created and hosted a segment for TealTV, the university's broadcast network. One of my favorite experiences was interviewing Humans of New York Founder Brandon Stanton. I felt so inspired by his journalistic work, I became a writer for my university's take on HONY, Humans of the Dub.
While much of my work in media focused in the jouranlistic arena, I spent two years as the public relations chair for my co-ed a cappella group. I re-branded and increased our social media presence, nearly doubling our audience turnouts and audition signups within a year. You can read more and find my designs on the "Graphics" page.
Since graduating in 2018, my professional efforts have centered in the news and entertainment industry. I began as a reporter and producer for a local Wilmington news station. My coverage ranged from governmental ceremonies to community events. I'll never forget sharing with viewers the story of a NICU baby who came home just in time for the Holidays.
I also spent seven months in the Big Apple, working for NBCUniversal, where I held a rotation as a production assistant for All In With Chris Hayes on MSNBC. My main responsibilities included escorting talent, designing graphics and assisting with fact-checking and research. It was a highlight to be able to be there during the summer 2019 Democratic Debates.
But one thing I have learned: no matter where you're looking or what you're looking for--there is always a story waiting to be uncovered.
Thank you for listening to mine. Now let's go tell some more.
mckenzierankin1@gmail.com | 704-689-6820