Chasing Hillary: Ten Years, Two Presidential Campaigns, and One Intact Glass Ceiling

Embarking on a journey into the world of political journalism is no small feat. Imagine a young woman stepping off a bus into the frenetic energy of New York City, clutching a battered portfolio of clippings and dreams. The early days are often a mosaic of temp jobs, coffee runs, and organizing closets, as she navigates the labyrinthine corridors of media companies. Persistence and adaptability become her closest allies. Within the walls of bustling newsrooms, she learns the language of deadlines and the rhythm of breaking news, often overshadowed by towering editors and seasoned reporters. Yet, in this crucible, the seeds of a distinguished career are sown.

Mentorship emerges as a beacon in this challenging landscape. Editors who see potential beyond the rawness provide guidance, pushing her toward stories that stretch her abilities. They become the architects of her confidence, the steady hand that nudges her from the periphery to the center stage of political reporting. Through their encouragement, she begins to understand the delicate balance between tenacity and tact, learning when to press for answers and when to listen. This support system is not just about skill acquisition but about fostering resilience in an often unforgiving industry.

Her initial assignments may seem mundane—covering minor events, fact-checking, or assisting senior reporters—but each task builds her understanding of the journalistic craft. She discovers that the path to covering the highest echelons of power is paved with patience and relentless curiosity. Every story, no matter how small, is a stepping stone toward greater access and deeper insight. The city itself becomes a character in her story: the clatter of subway trains, the chatter of street vendors, and the endless stream of faces all feeding her narrative sensibility.

As she transitions from assistant to reporter, the stakes rise. She finds herself reporting from distant lands, deciphering foreign cultures, and eventually arriving at the political heartland of America. Here, the stakes are not just about news but history in the making. The transformation from an outsider to a trusted chronicler of political power is both exhilarating and daunting. The young journalist’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of those who believe in us when we are still finding our voice.

With this foundation laid, we now turn to the whirlwind world of political campaigns and the unique challenges of covering one of the most polarizing figures in recent American history.