Hi! I’m Ava Dobson, a current senior at UNC-Chapel Hill…

Currently, I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in media & journalism through UNC’s Hussman School of Journalism with the hopes of extending my studies another year through the school’s graduate program!

While pursuing a degree in journalism was not at the forefront of my mind when I entered the school in 2020, a desire to broaden my creative potential and expand upon my passion for creating compelling content led me to apply to the Hussman school in the fall semester of my sophomore year.

It’s safe to say that I could not be happier with that decision! During my time within the school, I have been instructed under some of the country’s most engaging professors, and, as a result, I, too, have uncovered a hidden passion for everything from journalistic photography to writing and reporting!

While academics have been incredibly important to me, equally important to me has been my participation on the university’s cross country and track team:

My engagement and devotion to the program has forced me to make difficult sacrifices in my continued pursuit of my degree, and has made for quite the balancing act in regard to managing both academics and athletic success. However, I am proud to admit that my devotion to maintaining good grades along with athletic achievement has paid dividends, as I have, during my time at UNC, been the recipient of numerous athletic and academic accomplishments.

These include: 2023 NCAA Division I USTFCCCA All-Academic Honoree

2023 All-ACC Academic Team

2023 Outdoor All-ACC Performer in the 10,000 meters (7th Place)

Whatever the future may hold, I know that, by utilizing the skills I have honed under the Hussman school, along with those accrued during hours-long practices and competition, I will be able to face uncertainty head on and am ready for whatever challenges may present themselves!