Making the News
Southeastern graduate Randi Rousseau establishes successful broadcast journalism career
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
In the few years since graduating from Southeastern with a bachelor's degree in communication, Randi Rousseau has rapidly moved up the career ladder at WDSU-TV Channel 6 News in New Orleans.
After briefly serving as an intern, Rousseau landed the role of traffic reporter at the station. She was promoted to general assignment reporter, then co-anchor of the 4 p.m. newscast and, finally, to her current position as morning anchor of "WDSU News This Morning."
Last year, Rousseau was named one of the top two news anchors in New Orleans by the local press club. Rousseau credits Southeastern with helping her succeed.
"In the field of journalism, experience is the key. I chose to attend Southeastern because I would be able to dive in and get practical experience right away, both on camera and behind the news desk. The hands-on training at the Southeastern Channel really helped jumpstart my career, and I credit Southeastern for helping me get where I am today," she said.
A native of Ponchatoula, La., Rousseau began working at the Southeastern Channel almost immediately upon beginning her studies at the university. As anchor, reporter and editor, Rousseau was able to fine-tune her writing and on-air skills.
"The professors helped me develop a great writing style and taught me television law, AP style and how to present information in a clear and concise manner. That is a key to success in journalism," she said.
Whether covering breaking news on the streets of New Orleans or providing in-depth coverage of the BP Oil Spill tragedy in the Gulf of Mexico, Rousseau attributes her knowledge and experience to Southeastern.
The Southeastern Channel has served a starting point for many successful students and alumni in the broadcast journalism field.
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