Editor’s note: This interview is part of our occasional “Meet the Beat” series, profiling our youth news team. Andrea Galdámez was interviewed by Boyle Heights Beat intern Diana Kruzman.
Andrea Galdámez, 18
Senior at Theodore Roosevelt High School
Why did you join Boyle Heights Beat?
I’d always been curious about news and media. I used to sit with my grandma and watch Univision, and I found it so interesting. I was really excited when I got nominated to be in the program.
What do you most enjoy about Radio Pulso?
I’m able to connect with things that are actually happening and inform people about topics like immigration. Through BHB and writing stories that interest me, I’m able to educate people and connect with people.
What’s something specific you’ve learned about producing live radio?
Even if you don’t want there to be mistakes, there’s always going to be a mistake. Once you’re there, you’re trying to go with the script, but there’s something that’s not going to come out your way. At the end, you learn from it. Live radio is just learning how you can become better.
What’s something you’ve learned through the program about your community?
I didn’t know about the culture and community the people here have. Here everyone knows each other, and they’re really proud of their culture. It’s interesting walking down the street and seeing someone and they know you. Everyone here supports one another.
What’s something you’ve learned through the program about yourself?
I’m able to communicate with people. I’m not as shy as before, and I’m really nosy about everything, so it’s helped me realize my potential. I’m capable of asking questions, going in depth and not being scared of talking to people and finding out what I’m supposed to.
What are your college and career aspirations? Do you think you want to continue working in journalism?
I want to major in journalism and go to a four-year college, and I want to help my community. In the future I want to come back and give back to my people.
Has the program helped you overcome any challenges or barriers? If so, tell us about it.
I’ve always been social, but in high school I really just kept to myself, so with Boyle Heights Beat I learned how to socialize better, speak more and not be afraid. I was scared about my identity, but with BHB I learned that there’s other kids like me and to just be myself.
What does your family and community think of the Beat and your involvement with it?
They think it’s a really cool internship and helpful for what I want to do in the future. I remember the first time one of my stories got published, my mom framed it. She was so excited, she was telling the whole family.
All photos by Gus Ruelas.
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