The Border Belt Independent is proud to announce that Kerria Weaver has joined its staff as a part-time reporter. 

Weaver was born and raised in Shelby, North Carolina, and graduated from N.C. State University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a double minor in creative writing and biological sciences. She is currently a graduate student at Duke University’s liberal studies program. 

Here is more about her. 

How did you become interested in journalism? 

When I decided to major in English, my first thought after graduating high school was to be an English teacher. Those plans changed in college, but I knew I wanted a career in writing. When I started attending Duke, journalists I know suggested I join the staff of The Chronicle student newspaper. I have enjoyed gaining experience at the paper, and I am even more excited to continue to grow with the Border Belt Independent.

What makes journalism interesting to you?

I enjoy informing others about what is happening in society, and I also enjoy learning and meeting new people. At The Chronicle, it makes me happy when people tell me how appreciative they are when certain stories are told. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a voice for people who deserve to be heard. 

What piqued your interest in the Border Belt Independent? 

At first, I dreamed of working for news organizations such as CNN, The New York Times or The Washington Post. After giving it some thought, however, I realized I wanted to make a difference close to home. There are so many stories that need to be told in small communities right here in North Carolina. At the Border Belt Independent, I have the opportunity to make a local impact while also growing as a journalist. 

What do you like to do when you’re not studying or working? 

My hobbies include reading, dancing and hanging out with my family and friends. I was a cheerleader at Shelby High School, home of the Golden Lions, and I also played the violin as a member of the school’s chamber orchestra. I even got to play at Carnegie Hall in New York City. While at N.C. State, I was a part of Fusion Dance Crew, a multicultural dance organization.