“If you can take control of your fear and use it to encourage you, it becomes a different story."
— Julianne Amaya
The Interview Q&A
How long have you been working in the film industry? Where did you get your start?
“I got my start as a News Intern at Fox 35 WOFL-TV in the spring of 2019. I continued my passion for journalism by interning as a Reporter Intern for WKMG News 6 in the summer of 2019. During the start of 2020, I began interning at Cox Media Group with WDBO Orlando's News and Talk. Following the internship, I accepted a Reporter position at the radio station.”
Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?
“My biggest inspiration is former WESH anchor Wendy Chioji. She wasn't your typical anchor. Chioji climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, summited Mount Fuji, and completed Ironman triathlons. She was able to defeat cancer twice, but a third time was too much to ask for. Her blog, "Live Fearlessly," is a great source to find inspiration. Her brave spirit is worthy of emulation and so much more. I am grateful to have received a scholarship in her honor.”
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
“I draw my inspiration from Scott Pelley's book "Truth Worth Telling: A Reporter's Search for Meaning in the Stories of Our Times." His memoir focuses on various people, including parents of the Sandy Hook shooting, victims of the September 11 attacks, and Marines stationed in Afghanistan. These captivating stories describe heroes in a moment where they come head to head with the meaning of their life.”
What are some of the biggest things you’ve accomplished in your career so far?
“I have had the honor to cover different stories across Central Florida. The ones that linger in my mind include the protests following George Floyd's death, President Trump's rally at the Sanford Airport, and the 2020 election. I am an honored recipient of the Wendy Chioji Memorial Scholarship. I currently serve as Vice President of UCF's chapter of the Radio Television Digital News Association.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? (No dream is too big!)
“I see myself developing as a reporter and learning from others. I would love the opportunity to serve in a leadership role for a local news station.”
If you had one piece of advice for a woman who wants to get started in the film industry what it would be?
“I heard the phrase, “Fake it till you make it” in a TED Talk. The term sounds disingenuous, but if you watch the video, you hear a social psychologist describe her struggle with overcoming her fear of public speaking. She felt powerless but learned to control her mindset by putting aside her fear and acting confident to succeed. There are these high-pressure moments in journalism, whether it's working towards a tight deadline, covering breaking news on-air, or having to ask tough questions. If you go in with the mindset of being fearful, you will struggle, but if you can take control of your fear and use it to encourage you, it becomes a different story.”