Anna Heqimi ’25 (CLAS) and Jahon Boothe ’25 (CLAS) have been selected as Fall 2024 Media Fellows by the Washington Media Scholars Foundation. 

Heqimi, a journalism and communication major, and Boothe, a communication major at the Stamford campus, are the first students from UConn and the first in Connecticut to receive this scholarship. They are among only 65 students selected nationwide. 

“I feel very honored and privileged to have won it, and to have the opportunity to meet new people and network with professionals as well as other students who won this award,” Heqimi says. 

The scholarship is sponsored by media industry leaders, including Gray Television and The Washington Post, and was established to recognize and support outstanding students pursuing careers in media-related fields. 

“Honestly, it feels pretty great to get it,” Boothe says. “I honestly did not think that anyone in Connecticut knew about the scholarship. It was pretty good to know that I made an impact.”  

Fellows are selected based on their academic merit, leadership potential, and passion for media. In addition to scholarship funds, recipients are connected with senior-level executives from major media companies for mentorship and networking. 

So far, both have attended virtual career fairs featuring one-on-one conversations with media leaders. Heqimi has spoken with three companies about potential internships and jobs, gaining practical advice on her resume and insights into what employers are looking for. 

Boothe has also connected with media executives on LinkedIn. 

After graduating, Heqimi plans to pursue a career in journalism, while Boothe is considering careers in public relations, marketing, or advertising.