Caitlyn French graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts from Bethany Lutheran College, where she developed foundational skills in camera work, storytelling, and graphic layout—gains she carried forward into her first roles in community journalism.

Today, she serves as a news reporter for a regional daily newspaper. Her day-to-day includes conducting interviews, writing impactful stories, and working alongside a photography team to cover live events—ensuring her community stays informed and connected.

Her career aspirations include greater leadership in media. She is also working toward an MBA through Western Governors University to develop her capabilities in media management and business operations—inspired by her experience co-running a photography and framing business with a focus on storytelling and visual branding.

Caitlyn reflects that though her major focused on animation and motion graphics, the liberal arts breadth at Bethany gave her flexibility and strength across disciplines. She notes that the writing, camera, and design coursework allowed her to adapt quickly in the newsroom and beyond:

“The camera skills I learned allow me to have taken my own photos in past news jobs. The graphic design courses prepared me to layout newspaper pages … and the liberal arts … allowed me to be a well-rounded employee and journalist.”

What inspires her most in her profession is the variety and civic significance of journalism:

“Nothing is the same in news. One day I’ll be on a fishing boat interviewing fishermen about legislation and the next I’ll be talking with local filmmakers … I love being able to tell my community’s story.”

Caitlyn’s journey—from Bethany’s media studio culture and design classrooms to community journalism and entrepreneurship—demonstrates the powerful combination of hands-on instruction, Christian liberal arts mentorship, and a commitment to serving others through informed storytelling and integrity.