Alumni Spotlight

Matt Knutson

Why did you choose your major? 

I was drawn to telling other people’s stories and trying to keep everyone informed. If I could do that and entertain people at the same time, then that was the career for me. That led me to choosing a media studies major with a minor in journalism at NIU.

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

My media studies major introduced me to TV production. I loved being given a blank canvas and telling stories. COMS 357 was one of my favorite classes. I also learned a ton from my Journalism law classes, the principles of libel, slander and the do’s and don’ts in Journalism are deeply engrained in me and my work at Windy City LIVE. 

Is there anything you would like to tell prospective students? 

Don’t just look solely at the coursework and the criteria to graduate when you are deciding on a school. While that’s important, instead, look at how the school can help you grow … use it. I felt like I was able to get every ounce out of NIU. 



B.A. Communication Studies, 2005

Executive Producer of Windy City LIVE at WLS-TV in Chicago