Meet Amanda Spooner '25: Media and Communication Arts

Mere months after graduation, Amanda Spooner ’25 is already distinguishing herself as both a writer and media professional, blending academic insight she received at Curry with hands-on industry experience. The Media and Communication Arts alum recently signed an author agreement to publish her  Communication Capstone Seminar paper in the University of Utah’s Journal of Contemporary Issues and Media, while also launching a second career path as a Studio Technician at WFXT Boston 25 News.

Her capstone article, “Red Panda Power: A Feminist Analysis of Domee Shi’s Turning Red,” examines the groundbreaking Disney-Pixar film for its representations of transnational girlhood and women. Spooner was drawn to the project because of its unique authorship and perspective.

“Turning Red represents one of the few times girlhood has been portrayed through the lens of a woman reflecting on her own adolescence,” she explained. “Animation is often dismissed as something made only for children, but it can be just as nuanced and thoughtfully constructed as literature or live-action storytelling. I wanted my research to highlight that.”

The article’s acceptance marked a significant moment in Spooner’s career. “At first, I thought the email was a phishing scam,” Spooner admitted. “Once I realized it was real, I was thrilled someone wanted to platform my work—especially since the film itself had been met with criticism for its openness about mother-daughter conflict and menstruation. To me, that controversy made the publication even more meaningful, because my paper is about a young girl’s fight to find her independent voice.”

At Curry, Spooner honed her skills through both writing-heavy courses and production-based classes, experiences that prepared her for the rigors of editing, collaboration, and real-world media work. “Professors would gladly provide feedback, and though it sometimes felt a bit nitpicky, it strengthened my writing and prepared me for the publishing process,” she said. She also credits her internship experience with giving her a clear view of the industry.

Faculty mentorship played a central role in her journey. Professor and Co-Chair of the Communication Department Dr. Jayson Baker sat down with her to revise her paper before she submitted it for publication, while Professor Jerry Gibbs helped her secure her current position at Boston 25. Outside of the Communication Department, Dr. Robert Smid (Philosophy/Religion) inspired her to think from multiple perspectives before putting pen to paper. “The professors at Curry were always willing to challenge me and support me,” Spooner reflected. “Their guidance made all the difference.”

Today, Spooner brings that same dedication to her role at WFXT Boston 25 News. As a Studio Technician, she supports the production team in multiple capacities: most often as a floor director, guiding anchors on set, and operating the teleprompter. She is currently training in audio, with aspirations to eventually move into directing. “It’s a long road,” she said. “But Curry gave me the confidence and preparation to keep moving forward.”

Her work in news has also given her insight into the emotional impact of media. “Some of the stories we cover are very difficult, and they can weigh on everyone in the newsroom,” she shared. “I make it a point to check in with colleagues, spark conversations, and hopefully bring a smile or laugh to ease the fog. It’s important to remember the human side of this work.”

Looking back, Spooner encourages current students to take full advantage of their time at Curry. “These years go by quickly,” she said. “Use them to explore new opportunities, make friends, and discover who you are. The experiences you have in college will continue to guide you long after graduation.”