How Y'all Doin'?

There’s really something to be said for the Midwest.

Just about four years ago, I told my parents I would NEVER go to the University of Missouri. They made me apply. I was still convinced that I’d never go there. About three years later, I have changed my attitude…but it took a reporting shift out in Moberly to get me realize it.

I went to Moberly last week on a reporting shift and had the greatest time. People were genuinely nice and caring to a complete stranger! Everyone thanked me for being there—and I’m not just talking about the people that organized the event I was covering…average Moberly residents thanked me for coming out, just thanked me for being there and talking to them.

I was shooting some video of Moberly when a police officer pulled up. I was so scared that I was breaking some obscure traffic law…but he just came to say hi and welcome me to Moberly. He asked what I was doing and we ended up having a lovely conversation before he wished me luck and went on his way.

The people there were genuine. They took a real interest in my story and in me! They took the time to ask me questions. What a breath of fresh air. As a reporter, I am so lucky to be able to see different things and go different places. I stopped the other day and thought, I might never know the capitol of Missouri if I didn’t come to school here. Reporters see new things and meet unique people. My journey as a journalist has taken me to the Midwest and taught my more than just storytelling.

Sure, I’m a Denver girl and the West is the best in my mind. But the way I see it, the Midwest certainly has its charm.