LATEST
My education at the University of Central Florida has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of print/digital journalism and multimedia production. UCF’s journalism program allowed me to hone my skills in news writing, feature writing and editing.
I have a demonstrated experience in delivering impactful content across diverse platforms, covering social justice issues, human-interest features, mental health topics, spirituality topics, relationship topics, cannabis news and entertainment news.
I am an editorial fellow at YourTango, writing articles daily, and I am also a freelance journalist, covering for The Community Paper, among others.
As a writer and a photographer, I embrace my versatile and creative nature. I let my emotion and my passion guide me in creating compelling content. My ultimate goal is to open individuals’ minds and hearts so they can lead lives filled with love, gratitude and compassion.
LATEST
This year, the Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center for Technology, Innovation and Creativity, located in the Orlando Public Library, celebrated its 10th anniversary of offering a space for artists, photographers, musicians and creatives alike to practice their craft. Back in 2014, the Orange County Library System created the facility, thanks to the Kendrick B.
Janie-Alice Seecharan is a 33-year-old Orlando native and yoga instructor. She founded her business, Ignite Your Flow, virtually and locally in November 2022. But before she did this, she hit a hard reset on her life. Back in 2019, Seecharan had taken all the right steps toward a financially successful future.
Flourishing gardens greeted attendees of Katherine Miller's meet-and-greet event held at the Edible Education Experience on Feb. 8. Miller, author of the recently published book "At the Table: A Chef's Guide to Advocacy," discussed her book's important themes surrounding sustainability and advocacy in the food industry.
Entertainment and News
A holistic counselor shared 10 signs your body sends you when you are in a relationship with the wrong person. These signs impact your physical and emotional wellbeing. If you find yourself unable to leave a toxic partner, you are dealing with a trauma bond and need to listen to your body.
A boss texted his employee to come back to work immediately after finding out he took a lunch break, but the employee refused to set his needs aside to overwork for a company that couldn't care less about his well-being.
Rather than heading to the mall and finding her lonely brother a regular gift, a man's sister posted him in a local Facebook dating group, and dozens of women showed their interest. This heartwarming gift proves you don't have to spend a lot to give meaningful presents.
A woman took to TikTok to share her invaluable tips on how to pay off debt and save money. She was able to pay off $65,000 in debt in less than two years, and is sharing her journey and knowledge online to help others struggling with debt.
A woman expressed her controversial take on children from wealthy households sharing their extravagant Christmas hauls. She said these families have "failed as parents" for not teaching their children humble values.
Relationship mentors Charles Owen and Mia Cherry shared 11 things loving couples should already know about each other six months into a relationship if they're headed toward long-term success.
A man walks up to a couple's driveway to complain about their barking dogs, claiming it triggers his 'traumatized' wife. The couple tries to reason with the man, but there's not much they can do about their innocent dogs guarding their home.
If you are seeking ways to enhance your motivation to achieve your goals, a mental fitness coach shared a simple brain technique she uses every day that has helped improve her focus and maintain balance. And it only takes 10 minutes.
It's time to eliminate the archaic idea that one should be married with kids by a certain timeline, so one man decided to send out his very own single Christmas cards of him and his dog to all his loved ones, letting them know he is happily not married.
A millennial teacher has spoken up about the issue surrounding Gen Alpha and their lack of respect in the classroom.
A woman shares a virtual custody hearing on TikTok about a divorced father who wants full custody of his son, but refuses to pay child support, and the judge is not having it.
A man joked to his friends about his wife's terrible cooking. But afterwards, she decided to stop preparing meals for him. Now, he thinks she's taken things too far.
A woman shares her doubts about her relationship as she notices subliminal signs of emotional cheating, which her "golden retriever" boyfriend denies he could ever be capable of.
If you radiate a warm, magnetic energy that captivates everyone around you, you have a higher vibration than others. Discover the beauty of living authentically and radiating positive energy with these seven compelling signs.
Your internal dialogue could be hurting you financially. This one phrase could actually be preventing a windfall from your life.
A psychic medium on TikTok explained that our souls choose every detail about our lives, including our struggles, in an effort to learn and grow.
If you use any of these seven phrases daily, you likely have low emotional intelligence and lack empathy. Becoming aware of these painfully common phrases can help others take accountability and mend their relationships.
A career coach advised people to tread carefully when it comes to trusting in your managers, co-workers and company. You know what they say- never mix business with pleasure.
A woman went out of her way to make the holidays as special as possible for the lower-income families in her community. By texting her friends for donations, she realized how willing others are to help when given the opportunity.
A woman shared a story about her daughter's friend being sent to their home for a sleepover in an Uber, calling the friend's parents 'trashy.' The topic sparked controversy about parents who put their children in unsafe situations.
A kind man decided to step in and help his neighbor, a young, single father to three kids, after their mother passed. Using his TikTok platform to help make a difference, he and thousands of his followers pitched in to provide food, clothes, and toys for the family.
If you're wondering how you can make more of a positive impact in your friend group, these 12 tips will help you increase your confidence and compassion.
If you are a humble person who lives a life of integrity, the universe has your back, even if it may not feel like it. Trust in your morality, and it will pay you back tenfold.
A woman shared the 31 wise things she wish she had known in her 20s that would have made a huge difference in her life. And it's great advice for all of us.
A single mother shared a budgeting project her daughter was assigned in her ninth-grade class, which ultimately made her question whether she wanted to ever have kids.
Dysfunctional families put a lot of stress on the importance of the holidays, but their efforts are sadly not a year-round priority. The holiday season is not your only opportunity to embrace connection and togetherness.
A man asked if he was wrong for inviting his parents to live with him and his girlfriend, except he didn't see the need to involve her in this decision, resulting in a complex web of emotions and challenges. He now faces the potential impact this decision could have on his relationship.
Sometimes the pain a parents cause is too much to bear. One husband shared why he can't forgive his wife after she made amends with his toxic mother behind his back.
One mother shared her fears of accidentally harming her baby if she holds her while excessively tired. Instead of providing support, her husband ridiculed her, and now she's wondering if she was in the wrong.
Contrary to the common belief that success demands relentless toil, these fourteen habits demonstrate a healthier work-life balance. Adopting these habits can help you cultivate a sustainable path to success, while working less.
A man's toddler has been waking up every night screaming and crying from the pain of her molars coming in. To make matters worse, his neighbor is not too happy about it.
Dogs and humans are the most compatible duo known to man. Understanding these signs can deepen the appreciation for the unique and special bond you share with your canine companion.
A pregnant woman revealed her reluctance to share the gender of her baby with her husband after she was left feeling lonely and unsupported. While, she's not wrong, the path to healing is through communication.
Everyone has a 'broken window' in their life that they have been putting off. The process of addressing this issue likely causes you stress and anxiety, but it might just be easier to fix that window than dwell on fixing it.
The grieving process can be painful after losing a pet, but according to pet psychic Danielle MacKinnon, there's a chance they're sending you signs from the other side to let you know they're OK.
A man shares the story of how he fell out of love and into hate with his wife, who now suffers brain damage from a tragic car accident. The truth is- he lost his wife way before her accident.
The "pretty, so-called crazy wife" is a master at resolving conflict, thanks to being forced to act as the peacekeeper in her dysfunctional family, but deep down, she's desperate for tender love and care. Unfortunately, she often marries someone who doesn't understand her needs and she's left feeling lonely.
The type of food you're eating in your dreams may just represent what you need more of in your life. Whether you're craving more meaningful experiences or more time for self-care, here's how to interpret what your dreams about food mean for you.
In a country with little work-life balance, it can be difficult - impossible even - to enjoy your job. One woman claims she was fired for hating her job, and it opens up the door for discussions about why people stay in jobs they hate and if it's even possible to truly be happy when you need to work.
If there's one thing Gen Z can agree on, it's their perception of the typical 9-5 post-college workday. Not only is it a struggle for them to obtain jobs after college, but they're facing difficulties adjusting to the lifestyle of repetitive, draining work cycles. Maybe Gen Z will be the catalyst for change.
Everyone unconsciously makes these three decisions daily. Redirecting your thought process on what you focus your attention on will help lower your levels of anger, stress and overwhelm.
The world is filled with souls, old and new. Dr. Michael Newton shared insight on the signs someone is a beginner soul, meaning they are still in the early stages of personal development.
Personal & Creative Pieces (Unpublished)
This personal narrative story follows David Elder's life and his hope to one day overcome alcoholism.
This profile story follows a bartender and her unique journey moving from NYC to Orlando, FL with plans to open up her own brewery.
This short love story focuses on how a girl's new puppy helped heal her broken heart.
Emo Night is a true story about the different interactions people share at an emo karaoke night.
During a warehouse afterparty, DJs, ravers and dancers come together for a late night of techno music, dancing and good vibes.
Yukiko Smith shares the story of her difficult transition moving from her home, Tokyo, Japan, to the U.S.
This research paper discusses the taboo subject of psychedelic mushrooms, with reported personal experiences.
Douglas Lowell discusses his creative and musical passions and aspirations during a Q&A while he works his shift as a line cook.
Hard News
The sound of tides rising and falling greeted students on Saturday as they gathered at Cocoa Beach, Florida, for a beach cleanup to help mitigate the effects of plastic pollution and protect marine life. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,023
Students attended the Active Minds presentation "Be Real: With Kai Roberts" on Tuesday, where Roberts inspired students to open up about their mental health struggles and find support. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,027
Nine students attended ConeXiones' first "Self-Care is in the Air" event on Wednesday as part of its "Charla Con Café" series, highlighting the significance of maintaining balance and implementing self-care practices while being a college student. Sources: 5 | Word count: 966
The Central Florida improvisational community gathered on Monday to attend Femprov, a student-run workshop where they learned the significance of inclusivity and diversity in the improv community. Sources: 5 | Word count: 1,069
A drag story hour for children scheduled to take place Saturday was canceled due to several threats from neo-Nazi and extremist groups. Sources: 2 | Word count: 435
In honor of LGBT History Month and Diversity Week, a free popsicle event on Thursday presented multiple displays highlighting the culture and accomplishments of LGBTQ+ physicians and scientists. Sources: 5 | Word count: 729
UCF students and faculty gathered at a workshop held by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion Friday where they shared their challenging and painful coming out experiences. Sources: 3 | Word count: 871
Red lights and meditation music led students into the exhibit of three art installations that took a semester of hard work in the UCF Nicholson School of Communication and Media sound stage on Thursday. Sources: 4 | Word count: 927
As the LGBTQ community is facing tribulations due to the recent "Don't Say Gay" bill, UCF students and faculty gathered on Thursday for a moving workshop that aimed to encourage LGBTQ ally advocacy and highlight the lack of LGBTQ education in schools. Sources: 4 | Word count: 629
Mere days after the Florida House of Representatives passed the "Don't Say Gay" bill, UCF students and faculty gathered for a student-led workshop that aimed to eliminate LGBTQ+ discrimination. Sources: 3 | Word count: 714
Life
On a hazy night under purple lights, Stargirl shared a painful phone call with Prettyboy about the idea of being in an open relationship. During the call, Stargirl expressed her uncertainty and Prettyboy gaslighted her, invalidated her feelings and broke up with her. Sources: 3 | Word count: 1,705
On a cold night in Minnesota, a drinking game among college friends changed one girl's life forever and inspired Dr. Robert Dvorak's latest research study. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,207
The bill dubbed "Don't Say Gay" is now officially the law, and Florida districts must cope with its impacts. The first school year is underway, and counties are still unsure of what the legislation means. Sources: 6 | Word count: 1,659
During the 2020 lockdown, Jenna and Dean Cymansky decided to pick up their spatulas and start A New Hope Confections. The secret recipe to their chocolate business? Love. Article sources: 2 | Word count: 668
As UCF students finish off the rest of the spring semester, 24-year-old environmental science major Cameron Michela prepares to return to school in the summer after taking a year off to find happiness and rediscover herself. Sources: 3 | Word count: 1,052
Hemp is cleaning up and absorbing the toxins in contaminated soil in region including Chernobyl. Not only can people use hemp to make clothes, carpets, rope, paper, food and even plastic, but studies say it can also grow in - and clean - contaminated soil.
The 2022 Leafly Jobs Report found that the U.S. cannabis industry has added 250% more jobs in the last five years. Since America's first legal adult-use cannabis stores opened, the cannabis industry has grown at an incredible pace with each passing year.
More women are consuming cannabis recently. But why does the plant appeal to females so much? As cannabis becomes more accessible, more women are consuming the plant. Many use cannabis to improve their mental and physical health, such as sexual health, insomnia, PMS, anxiety and menopause.
Some LGBTQ+ students are concerned that a Florida bill banning the discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools will lead to increased discrimination. Sources: 4 | Word count: 909
In honor of Black History Month, the Ohio All-Star Statewide Cannabis Experience is taking place from February 16th-18th. The experience will include a career fair, and a fundraiser. Sources: 2 | Word count: 967
MDMA, also referred to as m olly or e cstasy, is known to enhance feelings of intimacy and connectedness. Can it also enhance arousal? MDMA, aka ecstasy or molly, is often used as a euphoric party drug.
After the break between fall and spring semester, students were excited to gather at Pride Commons on Jan. 19 for the safe space LGBTQ+ Services provides. Sources: 8 | Word count: 858
For many, a cannabis conviction can lead to disenfranchisement or loss of the right to vote. The age-old "stoner" stereotypes have evolved from the silly TV personalities we know, such as Slater from Dazed and Confused, or Smokey from Friday.
Taking her early work a step further, an honored UCF professor and researcher is dedicating the rest of her career to breakthroughs in pediatric cancer. Sources: 3 | Word count: 589
Multimedia | Photos
The sound of tides rising and falling greeted students on Saturday as they gathered at Cocoa Beach, Florida, for a beach cleanup to help mitigate the effects of plastic pollution and protect marine life. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,023
Students attended the Active Minds presentation "Be Real: With Kai Roberts" on Tuesday, where Roberts inspired students to open up about their mental health struggles and find support. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,027
Nine students attended ConeXiones' first "Self-Care is in the Air" event on Wednesday as part of its "Charla Con Café" series, highlighting the significance of maintaining balance and implementing self-care practices while being a college student. Sources: 5 | Word count: 966
The Central Florida improvisational community gathered on Monday to attend Femprov, a student-run workshop where they learned the significance of inclusivity and diversity in the improv community. Sources: 5 | Word count: 1,069
On a cold night in Minnesota, a drinking game among college friends changed one girl's life forever and inspired Dr. Robert Dvorak's latest research study. Sources: 4 | Word count: 1,207
In honor of LGBT History Month and Diversity Week, a free popsicle event on Thursday presented multiple displays highlighting the culture and accomplishments of LGBTQ+ physicians and scientists. Sources: 5 | Word count: 729
During the 2020 lockdown, Jenna and Dean Cymansky decided to pick up their spatulas and start A New Hope Confections. The secret recipe to their chocolate business? Love. Video sources: 3 | Word count: 668
Red lights and meditation music led students into the exhibit of three art installations that took a semester of hard work in the UCF Nicholson School of Communication and Media sound stage on Thursday. Sources: 4 | Word count: 927
Some LGBTQ+ students are concerned that a Florida bill banning the discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools will lead to increased discrimination. Sources: 4 | Word count: 909
Taking her early work a step further, an honored UCF professor and researcher is dedicating the rest of her career to breakthroughs in pediatric cancer. Sources: 3 | Word count: 589
Videography | Photography
Saturday night is always a hopping night in Sanford, Florida as the bars and restaurants fill up with patrons who are looking to have a good time. The [...]
A graduation photo session located at the University of Central Florida shot on a Canon EOS Rebel T6.
Some professional headshots I shot for Sanford Granite on Canon EOS Rebel T6
My favorite candid outdoor shots, shot on Canon EOS Rebel T6. Locations: Daytona Beach, FL; Orlando, FL; Apopka, FL; Dawson Springs, KY; Portland, OR; Seattle, WA
A home decor-inspired photoshoot featuring elements of interior and landscape design shot on a Canon EOS Rebel T6 in Boca Raton, FL
A collection of some wholesome moments I captured for a family photoshoot shot on a Canon EOS Rebel T6 in Orlando, FL
A creative video edit, shot and edited by Emma Straus and I for Strike Magazine UCF's Issue 3. Shot on Canon EOS Rebel T6 in Orlando, FL
Some of the work I produced during my time as a product photographer for handmethebag.com, shot on Canon EOS Rebel T6
A photography gig I shot on a Canon EOS Rebel T6 for Orlando Welcome Week's college party at Knights' Library in Orlando, FL
A 15's photoshoot + video blog shot on a Canon EOS Rebel T6 in Washington D.C. and New York, NY
A collection of some of my best works for CTV in high school