Unlike most people, Ciera Dockter absolutely loves public speaking. She knew after
three years of anchoring her high school’s live news program that broadcast journalism
was her passion.
The ESC class, Speaking in the Business and Professions, was her favorite. “I think all of my speaking opportunities in class have just made me a more confident person,” she explained. One of her most memorable classroom experiences happened in this class: she won the “Golden Pencil” award for the best speech. “It was a silly little award, but it still made me proud and helped me realize just how much hard work can pay off,” Dockter stated.
Her varied work experience contributed to her versatility. She worked as a wedding videographer for a summer, which gave her hands-on experience improving her camera and editing skills. Now she works as a paraprofessional at Rose Hill Middle School, which challenges her on a daily basis.
She advises communication students who are trying to pick an emphasis to try a little bit of everything. “You won't ever learn what you actually like unless you try things that you never pictured yourself doing,” Dockter said. She wouldn't have found her love of news reporting and video production if she’d stayed in her comfort zone.
Outside of class, she enjoys yoga, reading, writing and playing guitar. She’s also the house manager for the Delta Delta Delta sorority, where she spends much of her time. Her dream career is to work as a news anchor. “I know I'm going into a very competitive field, but I have the drive and confidence that it takes,” Dockter said.