Elizabeth Seymour, a Memphis native, didn’t always know she was destined for a career in journalism, yet her college journey led her to discover her true passion. 

A junior at UCA, Seymour originally set her sights on physical therapy; however, after realizing that science wasn’t her calling, she pivoted toward communication and journalism — two fields that align with her love for storytelling and sports. 

Seymour found her calling at UCA after one tour of the campus and immediately fell in love with the Conwegian culture. 

“When I was looking at schools, I was still living in Memphis,” Seymour said. “I toured UCA with my sister and immediately loved it. I also liked the physical therapy program, which was what I originally wanted to do.”

While her schooling in science was short-lived, Seymour realized her strengths in storytelling and communicating were a compelling reason to switch to journalism. 

“I tried so hard to be a science person, and I was just… I was not,” Seymour said. 

Seymour’s transition to journalism was sparked by a required communication class and her involvement with the campus radio station. 

“Sports broadcasting has always been something I was interested in, and I was already working at the radio station at the time,” she said. “I realized that if I combined communication with a journalism minor, I’d have more opportunities in broadcasting and reporting.”

That realization, combined with her growing involvement at UCA’s campus radio station, opened the door to a future she hadn’t initially considered but now fully embraces.

Seymour’s love for storytelling and connection led her to become deeply involved with UCA’s student media. 

She works with News 6, the campus news station, and shadows her boss, who does sports announcing for football, basketball and baseball. 

“I’ve shadowed him quite a bit on his sideline announcing, which has been great work experience for me,” she said. 

She enjoys covering events both on and off campus. 

“I like going out and getting interviews and talking to people about things going on in the community. I’ve interviewed athletes and covered events like the Kappa Sigma fraternity’s veterans hero softball tournament,” Seymour said. 

“It’s interesting to hear why certain events are held and the impact they have on campus and the Conway community.”

Although her passion for journalism is deep-rooted, Seymour says the challenges she faces as a woman in this industry have never dwindled her spirits and goals. Seymour is well aware of the challenges that come with being a woman in the male-dominated world of sports media. 

“It is a lot harder. I don’t get taken as seriously,” she said. “When I was doing football stuff, people recognized that I had a press pass, but I wasn’t always given the same attention or respect. I’ve also noticed that when applying for internships, the positions often go to men.”

Despite the challenges, Seymour remains undeterred.

“I’ve always been very independent and know how to advocate for myself. I’m happy to talk about the experiences I’ve had and the achievements I’ve worked for,” she said.

Seymour has her sights set on sideline reporting for professional sports, though she knows she may have to start small. 

“I know I’m probably going to start at a high school or college level or with a local TV station and work my way up,” she said. 

While she’s keeping her options open, she’s considered returning to Memphis to work with the Redbirds or the Grizzlies or even pursuing opportunities with the Cubs in Chicago. 

“I’d go anywhere. I’d even go overseas and cover soccer,” she said.

Seymour expresses encouraging words for those wanting to go into journalism, especially the women writers who are often overlooked. 

“Just do it. Put yourself out there. You’re going to find the right spot for you, and your personality will come through,” she said. “Don’t be scared just because it’s a little bit harder.”