SKILLS:

Engaging, natural anchor who connects with viewers. Strong writer and storyteller who excels at people driven stories

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:

2007- present Freelance Writer
Feature writer for two local magazines: Numéro and Food and Dining
Wrote lyrics for Illinois Central College’s fight song

2003-present WHOI-TV NEWS: Peoria Il
Weekday General Assignment Reporter (May 2007-present)
Responsible for “You’ve Got Heart” franchise
Turn several stories daily
Enterprise story ideas
Generate and cultivate contacts
Develop exclusive stories
Conduct flawless, dynamic live shots
AP Award: First Place: Best Hard News Feature
Silverdome Award: (INBA) Third Place: Best Series
Weekend Anchor/Reporter (March 04-May 07).
Anchor two half hour shows daily on weekends.
Coordinate content with producer.
Mentor younger reporting staff.
General Assignment Reporter (January 03-March 04). Chosen by local hospital to be Medical Franchise Reporter

2002 Advance Newspapers, Grand Rapids, MI
General Assignment Reporter (July 02-January 03)
Responsible for content of entire weekly edition.
Enterprise stories.
Stay on top of local politics.
Two Story of the Month Awards

2000-2002 KTVO-TV NEWS, Kirksville, MO
General Assignment Reporter
One person band.
Responsible for “Heartland Heroes” Franchise.
Developed contacts
Enterprised stories,
Shot, wrote, edited and presented live 2-3 stories per day.
Fill-in anchor.

2002-2003 News Central 3, Mount Pleasant, MI
Beat Reporter
On-air talent for audition only positions at Central Michigan University’s television station.
Enterprise, shot, wrote, edited and presented local health and technology stories

EDUCATION:

Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI
College of Communication and Fine Arts
Bachelor of Applied Arts, Broadcasting, May 2000.
Minor in Journalism.
Lead Role in Central Michigan University Play 1998
News Central Best Reporter Award 1998 & 1999
Special Talents Scholarship 1999

COMPENTENCIES:

Excel at ”people oriented” stories.
Proven ability at enterprising stories
Experienced at performing live and under pressure.
Natural ability on camera and engaging personality.
Ability to work in dynamic and diverse situations.

PERSONAL DATA:

Active in the community, two time marathon runner, Punctual, Dependable, Honest, and Hard-Working, Focused and Driven

LAURA MICHELS
Peoria, IL
(309) 472 - 1061
lauramichels@hotmail.com