Communications Studies Student On Air

Kiara Williams, a junior communication studies broadcasting major, has always had a passion for the media industry.

I knew what I wanted to study since I was a child. I always knew that public speaking was something that I wanted to do. I didn’t have to question it, didn’t have to second guess it. —Kiara Williams

Now, Williams’ dream is coming true, thanks to the preparation and connections she’s gaining from Widener.

Alumna Chantale Belefanti, who Williams had seen as a panelist on PBS39’s “Reporters Roundtable,” told Williams about a casting call for a new show called “Your Take with Tracy Yatsko.” Williams jumped at the opportunity. It was her chance to be in front of the camera and give her opinion on topics that affect everyday life.

She submitted her resumé and auditioned. Eight colleges and universities were represented during the audition process and, by the end, Williams was chosen to represent Widener.

“Your Take” is a weekly 30-minute talk show led by Tracy Yatsko, host and producer of “Reporters Roundtable.” During the show, Yatsko and five diverse college students from the Greater Lehigh Valley discuss common issues, listen to different perspectives, find common ground, and offer solutions. This season features students from Widener University, Lehigh University, and Northampton Community College.

Since the premiere on Feb. 1, the show has tackled such topics as social media, the importance of perspective, filtering your beliefs, and representation in government. Throughout the season, the cast will bring their viewpoints to new issues every week, such as de-stigmatizing mental health, gentrification, and the cost of quality education. The show also takes an interactive spin, involving conversations with experts, taking the discussion to members of the community, and a segment titled “Ask the Cast” during which audience members have the opportunity to ask cast members questions about themselves or college.

“’Your Take’ is very important because it allows a diverse group of students to come together to discuss different topics, give our perspective, hopefully bring awareness, and find solutions to problems,” Williams said. “It’s exciting to be a voice for those that may feel like they don’t have one.”

Williams is in her second semester back at Widener in seven years. During her time away from school, she worked in healthcare providing patient administration for Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and focused on motherhood, dedicating her time to raising her two sons.

“My children were my motivation to come back and get my degree,” Williams said. “I was procrastinating for years and finally realized I was ready to jumpstart my career. Getting my degree is a very important step to reaching my goal of ultimately becoming a news anchor.”

“Your Take” airs every Friday at 7 p.m. on PBS39.