My name is Maria DeBone and I'm a Senior at Kent State University. I'm from Murrysville, Pennsylvania and attended Franklin Regional High School. I was heavily involved in my high school's television program winning multiple awards throughout my years there. While there, I was awarded 1st place in the 'Broadcast News Category' and won best in show for my news package at the Pennsylvania School Press Association. Now, I'm continuing that activeness by being involved in Kent State's news show, TV2. I anchor the morning and nightly newscasts each week. I also report weekly. Those duties include finding a story to cover off or on campus and then creating a news package that same day.
For the past few semesters, I took on various leaderships roles and have been apart of the TV2 board at Kent State. Last semester, I served as the News Director. Responsibilities included overseeing a team of over 200 students interested in journalism.
Last year I was given the opportunity to be a reporter in Washington D.C. for the March for Our Lives protest on March 24th, 2018. There, I interviewed protestors, filmed b-roll and edited a news package together afterwards. It was such a rewarding experience and that's where I decided to add a minor in Political Science.
Last Summer in 2018, I spent my time in Charlotte, NC interning at CBS Affiliate, WBTV News station. I had the opportunity of following a MMJ 3 days a week as she created her stories each day. I filmed b-roll, asked my own interview questions and even made my own news packages. You can find those packages under the 'reporting' tab.
This past Summer, I worked for KDKA News in Pittsburgh, PA. I worked closely with their morning show, 'Pittsburgh Today Live' writing packages, scripts, helping guests and even making on-air appearances.
I love journalism and I'm happy I get to share the important stories I create with the community of Kent State.
After graduation, I plan to pursue my passion and be a reporter for a news station.