Ava Shea '26
BA Journalism
BA Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Where are you originally from?
I am originally from Queens and moved to Long Island when I was 13. That’s where I got used to all the essentials of Long Island life, from the beach, to bagels…even to Ralph’s! Over time, it really became home, and now I can’t picture going back.
On Stony Brook:
I always heard that Stony Brook was a great school, and I liked how close it was to home. That made it an easy decision to apply, and I was really excited when I got in.
Why Stony Brook?
I chose Stony Brook because of its strong academic reputation, but also because it gave me the best of both worlds. It was close enough to home while still allowing me to live on campus and gain independence. I was able to experience dorm life and grow into my own routine, while still having the option to go home on weekends or see friends from back home when I felt homesick.
On her major:
I initially chose journalism because I’ve always loved writing and interviewing people. I'm naturally drawn to hearing others’ stories and finding meaningful ways to share them.
I later added Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies because it introduced me to perspectives and systems of power I hadn’t fully understood before. Some of the most impactful things I’ve learned at Stony Brook came from classes that challenged what I thought I knew, especially topics that were never discussed in my earlier education.
Studying both fields together helped me see how storytelling and social awareness can work hand in hand.
Now, my goal is to use journalism to tell women’s stories in a way that not only informs people, but can make an impact on these women's lives for the better.
Favorite classes:
My favorite class was WST 399: Sex & Sexualities with Professor Angela Jones. I took this class at a point when I thought I had already explored most topics within my major, but I was proven wrong.
I had never studied sex itself in an academic setting because it often felt taboo, but this class helped me understand where that discomfort comes from. It was incredibly eye-opening and challenged the idea that these conversations should be avoided.
More than anything, it emphasized the importance of pleasure in terms of human connection and how we relate to one another. It pushed me to think more openly and live more freely, without judgment, and to embrace what makes people different.
Interests and accomplishments:
I have a strong interest in broadcast journalism and the way it allows you to connect with an audience beyond just words on a page. I enjoy the process of preparing to tell stories that can reach a wide audience and have a real impact.
One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is being accepted into the Journalism Without Walls program, which funds a trip abroad for journalism students to gain experience in international reporting. It was a selective process, so being chosen meant a lot to me, and it’s an opportunity that will continue to shape my growth as a journalist.
Plans for post-graduation:
After graduation, I will be interning at Newsday over the summer, where I’ll continue gaining hands-on experience in journalism and working toward my long-term career goals.
Advice to future Seawolves:
Don’t let comparison be the thief of your joy. It’s easy to look at other people and feel like you’re behind or wish you had what they have, but everyone is on their own path. Focusing too much on others can take away from your own growth, so it’s important to understand what makes you feel fulfilled and confident in your own journey.
Favorite SBU memory:
My favorite SBU memory was anchoring for the annual Roth Regatta. Being able to combine my passion for journalism with such a fun and energetic campus tradition made it really special.
The music, the crowds, and seeing so many students come together created an atmosphere that felt so alive. Getting to be part of that, and helping share the experience with others who couldn’t be there, made it even more meaningful and is something I’ll always remember.