Lone Candidate Hunter Has High Hopes for DTH

When she first arrived in Chapel Hill from Newburgh, N.Y., Hunter said, she was a freshman lacking direction.

"I knew practically nothing about UNC, what to get involved in or what I wanted to do with my life," Hunter said.

She stumbled upon the DTH at an interest meeting early in the fall, and it has been her road map ever since.

"I got hired without ever having written a news story," Hunter said.

But inexperience proved no obstacle in Hunter's path. She delved into the world of professional journalists, covering midterm congressional elections during her first semester as a staff writer for the State & National Desk.

As she matured as a reporter over her next three years, Hunter explored the workings of the paper, steering her way to positions as State & National assistant editor, desk editor and her current post as DTH managing editor.

And now, after almost six semesters of learning by others' example, Hunter, who is running unopposed, believes she is ready to be the guide.

"I feel I have done everything there is to be done and learned everything I can in other positions," she said. "It's a natural progression to want to be editor."

Hunter said the DTH, as one of the best college papers in the nation, already does an admirable job reporting the news but that there is always room for improvement.

As editor, Hunter's focus will be on identifying major stories early in the year to allow for more in-depth coverage.

"I really enjoy taking issues that affect the entire state and nation and showing readers how they affect the University," Hunter said.

But there is more to the DTH than chasing sources and meeting deadlines. For Hunter, it's also about forming friendships with a group of "driven, ambitious people who also have a lot of fun."

Which is why Hunter tries to keep things fun in the midst of newsroom madness.

One day, she sang encouragement, in the form of Julie Andrews songs, to reporters lacking confidence.

She tries to remind everyone, especially herself, to keep work in perspective and know that the DTH is a step in a larger journey.

With the editor selection to be held Saturday, Hunter said she has enjoyed her trip so far and is excited about her possible future at the DTH.

She said, "It's amazing to me what can be accomplished when such a huge group of people come together for a common cause."

The Features Editor can be reached at features@unc.edu.