Her Story
About Sandra
Sandra Gonzalez is a journalism professional with more than 20 years of experience in the field. She most recently served in a producer capacity for seven years, following a career predominantly as a reporter. Sandra began her educational journey at a community college in her home city of Mission Viejo, California, where she gained hands-on experience in broadcasting through student and professional programming, radio anchoring and reporting, and television production. She then transferred to Cal State Fullerton to complete her bachelor's degree. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to adaptability by embracing new technologies, from cameras and editing to social media and artificial intelligence. Sandra finds great fulfillment in mentoring and training the next generation of journalists, viewing their success as her own. She values balance in life, pursuing interests such as dance, baking, cooking, and fitness to maintain spiritual, mental, and physical health and avoid burnout.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sandra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being adaptable and having an insatiable appetite to keep growing, evolving, and learning. I've adapted from analog to digital to AI, embraced social media and new technologies like the camera when it was new, and continue to learn editing and photography skills that transfer to modern formats like vertical videos.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to be open to new possibilities and not close yourself off. In journalism, things evolve, and by being open and showing interest in learning new skills like operating a camera, it led to favorite job and adapting to the one-man band model.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be flexible and open, keep learning because things change so fast. Be open to artificial intelligence and new technology, but remember good writing stays the same. Also find balance with hobbies and interests outside the workforce to bring new ideas and avoid burnout.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The industry is going through adaptations and changes with layoffs and job losses. It's a rough time, but it will survive. It's a good time to analyze if journalists want to stay and evolve or transfer skills to other vocations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Your job is not your complete identity. Balance is key for spiritual, mental, and physical health. Journalism has been a big part of my adult life but I have other interests like dance, baking, cooking, and fitness that help me avoid burnout and be my best self.
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