BCLA Summer Internship Spotlight: Sammy Marvin ’28

For Sammy Marvin '28, journalism has never been just a major. It has been a passion years in the making.

Currently interning at LAist, Sammy is gaining firsthand experience at one of Southern California's leading news organizations, where every day brings a new challenge. As a journalism major with a minor in screenwriting, she is building the skills she'll need to pursue her goal of becoming a reporter after graduation.

Sammy's journey into journalism began more than seven years ago, starting with designing pages for her middle school's yearbook. Since then, she has continued to grow as a storyteller and now serves as managing editor of the Loyolan. When she learned that the LMU Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts was partnering with LAist to offer summer internships, she knew it was an opportunity she couldn't pass up.

"I've always admired LAist's commitment to thoughtful storytelling and connecting with local communities," Sammy said. "Now I get to work alongside people who are passionate about serving Los Angeles every day."

No two days at LAist look the same. One morning may involve reporting and writing a story on a tight deadline, while another could include recording voiceovers for a radio segment or producing audio clips to accompany published articles. Each week, Sammy pitches stories, conducts interviews, writes articles, collaborates with editors, and publishes her work through the newsroom's content management system.

Beyond reporting, one of the biggest highlights of the internship has been the people.

"Everyone has been incredibly welcoming," she said. "Getting to know journalists across different departments has helped me better understand how a newsroom functions, while also strengthening my communication and networking skills."

The experience has also introduced Sammy to a new side of journalism: radio. Learning to adapt written stories into engaging audio pieces has expanded her storytelling toolkit and underscored the importance of meeting audiences wherever they are.

Looking ahead, Sammy says the internship has reaffirmed that she's exactly where she's meant to be.

"Journalism and storytelling bring me so much joy," she said. "This experience has confirmed that this is the career I want to pursue."

Her advice to fellow students considering an internship?

"Do the internship. Apply for as many as you can. The number of rejections that I got will never outweigh the positive experience of having an internship at LAist," said Sammy, "Once I step off LMU's campus in 2028, I know that I'll be just that much more prepared for adult life and my career. It really gives you perspective on what you want to truly devote your time to as you grow up."

Sammy is one of 70 liberal arts students participating in BCLA's inaugural Summer Internship Program. This summer, students are working in paid roles with news outlets, nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, and organizations across LMU, including Marketing and Communications, the Dean's Office, research centers, and Loyola Law School. The strong interest from both students and employers reflects the value of hands-on experience that complements classroom learning. Through opportunities like these, students can explore potential career paths, build practical skills, and gain a clearer understanding of the work they may pursue after graduation.