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Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism University of Southern California
ALUMNI

Danielle Leigh

Class of 2006, Bachelor's



Prior to coming to Seattle, Danielle was a Washington D.C. based correspondent for NBC News Channel, covering Congress and the Supreme Court.

She has also specialized in breaking news, reporting on major events such as the 2012 Presidential election, Super Storm Sandy, the tragic shootings in Newtown, CT., the Asiana plane crash in San Francisco, The George Zimmerman trial, the Navy Yard shootings, and the birth of the royal baby in London.

While working at KCRA 3 News in Sacramento, Danielle developed a reputation for uncovering exclusive enterprise stories. Her reports led to a state investigation into a Sacramento produce company, a policy change for ride operators at the California State Fair, and exposed conflicts at a school district police department that became the focus of a Grand Jury investigation.

Danielle loves the beauty and culture Seattle and the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

When she isn't working, Danielle loves traveling, trying out new restaurants, exploring the outdoors, and relaxing anywhere sunny with a good beach or a boat.

Danielle also regularly volunteers in the community supporting a variety of homeless outreach and health initiatives.

Survey

What are the top three skills journalism students should learn in college?:

writing, voice, on air presence.



What were your duties at ATVN? :

reporter, producer.. those were the big two.



How did ATVN prepare you for your career?:

Wow where do I begin. It taught me to do everything from writing to editing… the whole bit under a deadline.. It gives you a good picture of what a real newsroom is like. so get involved…



What is your advice to aspiring journalists?:

learn to work hard and fast… and never take no for an answer.



What should graduates keep in mind when negotiating their first job?:

Negotiate.. Haha that is funny… Most of the time there is no such thing. Make sure the city you are going to is a place you will be happy at. That’s about your only negotiating tool i.e. who you tell yes. Try to get an out but don’t count on it.

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