by Micah Roberts
Destiny Washington is inspired by her uncle’s success as an award-winning television executive producer and director.
Rayce Denton won an Emmy producing BET TV reality shows, including College Hill and DMX: Soul of a Man.
Washington wants to be as successful as Denton, but as a journalist. The 17-year-old senior at Classen School of Advanced Studies in Oklahoma City wants toattend the University of Southern California.
“I want to do some kind of media broadcasting because knowing things interests me,” Washington said.
As a high school junior, she participated in The Oklahoman’s Newsroom 101 for student journalists.
Reporters need to be calm in stressful situations. Washington said she learned that lesson in elementary school.
“When I was at recess in the third grade, I really had to use the bathroom. But it was full, and I ended up peeing on myself and getting sent to the office,” Washington said. “Although this is embarrassing, I think it helped to teach me to be calm in any situation.”
Curiosity also helps reporters find stories.
“You can never lose by asking ‘why,’” Washington said.
She also recognizes the importance of creativity.
“If there wasn’t creativity, the world’s news would always seem boring and a waste to everyone,” Washington said.
