Master of Arts, Journalism
University of South Florida
Work Experience
2002 - 2012
Tampa Bay Times, Sports journalist
In the 10 years I worked with the Times, I worked in the sports department, assisting writers, copy editors and page designers. While spending some time as a sports agate supervisor, I also dove into duties as a Copy Editor and page designer, helping me for my next path in life.
2010-2019
Journalism Teacher, High School
From 2010-2019, I served as a Journalism teacher, Yearbook and Newspaper Adviser, English II-IV teacher, Reading teacher, Creative writing teacher, Speech/Debate teacher, and Physical Education teacher. My greatest accomplishment came as a Yearbook and Newspaper adviser. While building a great connection with the students, I was able to build a brand new product at a new school and turned it into one of the elite journalism programs in the state. Our Yearbook program accumulated many top state awards and our Newspaper program flourished winning several state winning awards from 2016-2018. I assisted students and taught them skills in the journalism field that would lead them to success.
2010-2019
2019-Present
Sports Editor/Writer
I have worked for several clients producing journalistic and educational content for publication, including National Geographic, Golf Weekly, Sports Bios, Lineups, SK Sports, FanDuel, Method Schools, and Best Colleges.
Education
1998-2002
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, Journalism
University of South Florida
2021-Present
Master of Arts
University of South Florida
T. JOHN
KOVACK
Aspiring Journalist
About Me
Ever since my early days of going to Catholic school, I have had a passion to write and tell a story. I look for creativity in everything and strive for perfection in all that I do. If there's a story out there, I want to explore it. My dream in life is to travel the country and write...and maybe squeeze in a few rounds of golf in between.
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I am a very family-oriented man. They are my life, and without them, I would haven't have had the success I've experienced over the years. They've helped me through some very rough times, especially in the last couple years when I sank into darkness. I live on the belief of being positive in life, and when it left me, my family helped me find it again. They've reaffirmed that no matter what obstacle is thrown my way, I am a fighter and have the ability to overcome any challenge.
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My favorite part of Journalism is meeting new people and having the opportunity to learn more about them. I believe as a society we need to get back to the simplicity of talking to each other. Social media and technology have its upsides, but it has taken away the essence of communicating. The beauty of Journalism is it can bring that quality back.
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I've learned a lot of lessons in life. No matter who how tough life gets, always smile. No matter how tired you are, lend a helping hand to someone who needs it. No matter how dreary the day may seem, make someone laugh. Your one goal every day should be to do something good for someone new. It's a daily task I've always lived by.
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The world will only smile at you if you smile back. It doesn't smile at those who do nothing but frown. We all make mistakes in life, and if you let it penetrate inside and define who you are, life will knock you down. Prove to others that you are above that and can get up and fight back at life. Prove to others that you should be defined by your good deeds, not your mistakes. Prove to others that you can accomplish anything you set your mind towards. Don't be someone you're not.
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BE YOU.