By Lesley DeVoss—
MUNCIE, IN—For Matthew Sharp, working in media was his personal goal. During high school, he worked as the editor for the New Castle High School newspaper, The Phoenix, where he started to learn about his career path. After graduating in 2016, he attended Ivy Tech Community College’s New Castle location as a general studies student.
Sharp received an associate degree in general studies in 2018. He transferred his credits to Ball State University where he double majored in Journalism and Telecommunications with a news concentration. He has worked in media since graduating in 2020 as a reporter, managing editor, and, most recently, a news producer for WISH TV.
He credits Ivy Tech’s professors with helping him improve his writing skills and making him a stronger journalist.
“I met professors at Ivy Tech that helped me hone my writing skills and open my mind creatively, making me a better storyteller once I got out into the workforce.” Sharp said.
Ivy Tech’s professors helped him develop his creativity so that he could craft engaging news and feature articles while maintaining the factual elements to entice readers.
“If they enjoy what they read, they are more likely to pick up a paper the next day as well. Creative Writing classes at the Ivy Tech in New Castle have helped me look for ways to keep the stories I write fresh and entertaining while also being informative and newsworthy,” Sharp said.
Following his dream of working in media, Sharp understands the need to make connections. While attending Ivy Tech and Ball State, he networked and developed professional connections that assisted him in getting his first job out of college at the Chronicle Tribune in Marion, Indiana as a reporter.
As a News Producer, Sharp will be tasked with taking over a show and will be responsible for gathering stories, writing scripts, formatting the show, create on-screen graphics, controlling the cameras while the show is live, timing the show, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly to create the best statewide news show possible. All his experience in media has prepared him for this challenge.
“I want to stress the importance of using your time in college to make connections. Making connections is a very important piece of being a professional and colleges are full of bright minds that can help you and will likely be important connections in your journey as a professional. Join organizations, make friends, take on extracurricular projects. It all helps in meeting new people and making meaningful connections,” Sharp said.
Ivy Tech Muncie/Henry County can help you achieve your dream too. Earning your associate degree in general studies or a specialized field allows you to transfer your college credit and earn your bachelor’s degree for less at a 4-year university. To learn more about Ivy Tech Muncie/Henry County, visit online at ivytech.edu/muncie, email askmuncie@ivytech.edu, or call 765-289-2291 ext. 1232.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns to the needs of the community. The College provides seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor’s degree. Follow Ivy Tech on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the most up-to-date information.
