Investigative reporter Sandra Chapman inspired Ball State students with stories from her career in journalism.
Chapman spoke to students Wednesday in an event hosted by the Ball State chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists.
Chapman, a Ball State alumna, has won an Emmy and currently works as an investigative reporter for WTHR-TV in Indianapolis.
Roughly 40 students came to the David Letterman Communication and Media Building to hear Chapman speak.
Chapman shared experiences from her career, commented on the state of the media and encouraged young journalists to actively pursue their dreams.
"Eat up what you can here," Chapman said. "This is an amazing college. You have so much more than other universities. Ball State students are way ahead because we have so much here that we can work with. Get involved. Take advantage of what you have to work with."
She emphasized that not everyone who graduates with a degree in telecommunications or journalism will end up working in the field. Those who get ahead are the ones who utilize their professors, campus opportunities and internships.
After Chapman spoke, students had time to ask questions and many took advantage of the chance by asking questions about improving their work and how to balance a personal life with a career.
The Department of Telecommunications and Ball State recognized Chapman as a "TCOM jewel, a shining crown in the Ball State legacy," with a certificate.
NABJ secretary Kelci Baker said the event was helpful because it gave students access to a professional journalist.
"I really hope they got an inside look at what it's like to be an investigative reporter, what the lifestyle is like," Baker said. "I hope they get connections from her, I see people going up and talking to her and getting help overall."
Senior public relations major Elizabeth Hibbler said she was excited to see Chapman because she had often watched her at home on WTHR, and information about the job market was beneficial.
"Her information about trying to get a job was pertinent to me," Hibbler said. "Seeing her talk about what she loves to do gets me excited and maybe one day, I'll have that opportunity."
Chapman said she speaks in front of students as often as possible, and she especially likes coming back to Ball State.
Although she cautioned students in regards to the job market, she shared that it's an incredible feeling to know that her work can have an impact on other's lives.
By speaking at Ball State, Chapman said she hopes she encouraged students along their career path.
"Just seeing the younger, up and coming journalists is pretty inspiring," she said. "They'll be replacing me and I love to be able to share with them and maybe light a fire [for telecommunications]."
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