Zahra Pacheco
Inspired by the community she’s found at Georgia State, journalism major Zahra Pacheco is taking advantage of opportunities inside and outside the classroom to build the skillset and network she’ll need to thrive in a career in media.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Tell me a bit about yourself.
I’m a third-year student majoring in journalism. I switched from psychology during my sophomore year, and once I got into journalism, I fell in love with it. I also work at WRAS Album 88, the student-run radio station, which is a huge part of my life on campus.
You recently recorded a podcast with business-development coach John Ray. How did you get that opportunity?
I found him on LinkedIn, and people at my job at Nothing Bundt Cakes mentioned they knew him and suggested I interview him. When I reached out, he invited me on his podcast. We just turned on the mic and talked. It wasn’t super formal, which made it fun.
What did that experience teach you?
That community is important, and finding your own community is what will make you successful. I think work ethic ties in 100 percent, but building community with people who are like-minded can open doors for you, and it is one of the best ways to grow.
Do you see podcasting in your future?
Definitely. Journalism is digital now, and I love talking, so it’s something I’d be open to.
Tell me about your talk show.
My show is called “Play It Again.” Each week, my co-host Brian and I listen to a new playlist — sometimes from guests — and we talk about how the music makes us feel, whether we liked it and how it connects to what’s happening in the world.
What inspired you to start it?
At first, I didn’t feel like I had my niche yet, and when I found Album 88, I finally found a group of people who made me feel comfortable. A lot of them have their own talk or music shows, and I wanted to do something like that because they all seem very fulfilled by it. They were having such a good time, and it seemed like a good way to escape the stress of school. It’s also a safe space I like. It’s an hour a week, and I just get to sit there and talk with people I really enjoy being around.
You also do social media work. Can you talk about that?
I run social media for Album 88 as the assistant promotions director and, next semester, I’ll be the promotions director. I promote shows, run giveaways and create content. I also run social media for Nothing Bundt Cakes. Their whole purpose is to spread joy, so I try to reflect that online.
How did you choose to major in journalism?
I realized I wanted to study something that excited me. When I met people in the journalism program and heard about their classes, something clicked. I’ve always found reporting interesting, so I decided to try it and it fit.
What impact do you hope to make through journalism?
I’d love to cover the arts, especially dance. I’ve danced my whole life and it’s so underrepresented in mainstream media. I want people to understand how meaningful the arts are to communities.
Is there anything you wish the media covered more?
More positive stories and more arts coverage. I think news can get heavy and it’s good to remind people of what’s uplifting, too.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to dance a lot. I also love collaging. I go to antique markets, find old photo books and make themed collages. And I enjoy exploring the city and finding new spots.
What does your dream life look like?
I’d have a steady and meaningful job in the media space — something creative and connected to the community — and I want to live somewhere where I can experience and create art.
What advice do you have for GSU students?
That it’s OK not to have everything figured out. Finding your niche takes time and you don’t have to peak in college.
