Alumni Spotlight

Vicky Baftiri

Why did you choose your major?

I’ve always been passionate about finding out the truth. My three siblings and I were raised by a very passionate and truth-seeking father, who stressed being honest and accepting of who we were. This provided us with a sense of integrity. I believe I was compelled to share stories about the society around us, so that the viewers may learn from what we see and hear, knowing that it is based on facts.

How did your major help prepare you for what you are doing now?

My major was paramount in what I’m doing now. I don’t think I would have the knowledge and the expertise to be in news and produce if it wasn’t for my major at NIU. I loved learning about media studies that I pursued my Master’s at NIU. It is there that I knew it was the right major for me. The COMS department allowed me to collect as many experiences as possible before I really delved into my career in a professional level.

What do you feel is special about the NIU program?

What’s really special about the NIU program are the professors. Their passion was infectious. Great educators can make a world of a difference in your future – they can either make or break it. And I was so fortunate to have some of the very best.

Why would you recommend your major program to other students?

If you are someone who is curious, wants to make a difference, loves to listen to people share stories and is creative – NIU is the perfect educational institution that has all the resources to launch your career and make your dreams turn into a reality.

Is there anything you would like to tell prospective students?

I can’t stress enough the importance of internships. Not one, but two. It is during internships that you will actually realize if the major you are in is the right fit for you. It’s the single most important choice during your education.

What is your current occupation?

My current occupation is a Supervising Producer for the WGN-TV News at 6 p.m. In my current role, I’m in charge of the entire news programming from conception to execution. It truly takes a village to put on the news and I’m lucky to have an extraordinary team who makes it happen every single day.



B.A. Journalism, 2002; M.A. Communication Studies, 2005

Supervising Producer for WGN-TV News