Featuring Jayde Teutsch of West Point, Neb., who is majoring in Political Science and Journalism.
With a stint of almost four years on The Wayne Stater newspaper staff, it’s no surprise that Jayde Teutsch of West Point, Neb., credits her high school journalism instructor with giving her the confidence and passion to pursue her goals. Teutsch, a senior who is majoring in Political Science and Journalism at Wayne State, is this week’s subject of the Student Spotlight Series.
“Several events during my senior year of high school, such as the COVID pandemic and George Floyd's death, pushed me to pursue an education learning about politics and the power of the press,” said Teutsch, who originally intended to purse a law degree.
Teutsch has been The Wayne Stater’s editor-in-chief for the 2024-25 academic year, and she served as news editor her junior year. She said this year has been about altering content and layout designs.
“Having this freedom has connected me with my peers and expanded my interest in journalism,” said Teutsch. “I've enjoyed pushing my writers to explore topics they enjoy, and I hope I’ve set the paper up for success for upcoming years.”
Teutsch’s influence seems to be working.
Several staff members of The Wayne Stater brought home Golden Leaf Awards from the Northern Plains Collegiate Media Association’s conference held March 29 at the University of Nebraska-Kearney. Broadcasting and sports media students also received several honors.
“It was very rewarding to see our success recognized,” said Teutsch. “Being the editor-in-chief has been a taxing experience, but seeing our work rewarded, as well as obtaining new skills, has been an incredible opportunity.”
As a first-generation college student, Teutsch chose Wayne State because of its financial aid, which provided her with an easier chance of completing college without too much financial strain. A wide variety of student activities also played a big part.
“I have been impressed with the amount of student activities Wayne State offers,” said Teutsch. “I feel most schools have students that are upset or concerned about the price and student fees, but I think Wayne does a good job utilizing some of those fees for student-centered events to keep students occupied and connected. Some students here may not partake in these events, but I believe some of the faculty and staff take at least a small amount of interest in the well-being of Wayne's students.”
At Wayne State, Teutsch has been involved in Pi Gamma Mu (international social sciences honor society), Gamma Theta Upsilon (international geography honor society), Alpha Lambda Delta (honor society for first-year academic success), KWSC-FM 91.9 The Cat radio, and The Wayne Stater newspaper.
Teutsch will graduate in May, and she intends to lobby for women and equity rights or pursue non-profit work.