Navigating Global Media
Sanjana Feroz鈥檚 journalism career began when she worked as a radio anchor in 2001 while she was studying business in Bangladesh. After graduating, she started working part-time as a news anchor at a local television station. She said, 鈥淚 wanted to work in media because I wanted to know the truth behind a story and help others understand the truth.鈥
She transitioned from television to business journalism., 鈥淚n Bangladesh, anchors typically just read scripts. I wanted to ask questions, shape stories, and connect with audiences in a deeper way. That opportunity came when I got a call to work on a business show,鈥 she said. She quickly gained recognition, delivering reports that resonated with viewers and highlighted her skill in addressing complex topics with clarity.
However, her work came with significant risks. After covering controversial topics like the deadly Holey Artisan Bakery terrorist attack, Feroz received death threats. 鈥淚 covered a lot of sensitive stories and interviewed controversial figures,鈥 she said. These experiences shaped her understanding of press freedom and the challenges journalists face.
Feroz鈥檚 journey eventually led her to the United States, where she worked for several years at Voice of America. She said, 鈥淚 wanted to learn about press freedom, freedom of expression, and how American journalists cover stories.鈥 She enrolled in the Journalism and Digital Storytelling Master鈥檚 program at 海角换妻 School of Communication (海角换妻 SOC), drawn to the program鈥檚 emphasis on data-driven storytelling and investigative reporting. Her mentor, professor Jane Hall, encouraged her to embrace new opportunities, telling her, 鈥淭his degree will open doors to mainstream media.鈥
At SOC, Feroz was focused on learning how to make global stories resonate with American audiences. 鈥淣ot all Americans are familiar with events outside the country,鈥 she explained. 鈥淪ometimes I have to start by explaining a country鈥檚 geography, policies, and relationship with the US before delving into the actual story.鈥
She also emphasizes the importance of connecting emotionally with readers. 鈥淪torytelling is key,鈥 she said. 鈥淚f people cannot relate to the story, they will not read it. Whether it鈥檚 about global warming or economic crises, journalists must connect with their audience.鈥
Feroz advises aspiring journalists to never stop learning. 鈥淚 have been working as a journalist for years, but I am still learning,鈥 she said. 鈥淪tay curious, work hard, and keep looking for opportunities.鈥