Student Journalist Files Stories From the Republican National Convention

A global audience of millions is tuning into the Republican National Convention from the comfort of their homes.

Allegheny College sophomore Alexander Hasapis is watching, too – from a coveted seat in the press gallery in Cleveland’s Quicken Loans Arena.

Hasapis is working as a student journalist, one of 15,000 credentialed members of the media covering the historic event. He plans to regularly file stories and photos for possible publication in The Meadville Tribune and The Daily Record, which covers his hometown of Wooster, Ohio.

Hasapis’ first dispatch, about the readiness of Cleveland businesses to welcome 50,000 convention visitors, appeared on page A5 of the July 18 edition of The Meadville Tribune.

“I don’t even know if I can fathom it just yet,” Hasapis said of his involvement. “This event I truly believe will be in the record books for years to come. … I’m just completely ecstatic that I have this opportunity.”

The experience is being funded in part with support from Allegheny’s Office of Career Education.

“All of us at Allegheny are tremendously excited for Alex and proud of his accomplishment,” said President James H. Mullen, Jr. “The energy and focus he has demonstrated reflect his commitment to journalism, his belief in the political process and his excellent work ethic.”

The four-day convention, which runs July 18-21, will culminate in the Republican Party’s nomination of Donald J. Trump for president of the United States. For Hasapis, who is considering majoring in political science, it’s a rare chance for a front-row view of politics in action and an example of the experiential learning opportunities that Allegheny fosters.

“The Gateway seeks to expand opportunities for students to do exactly what Alex is doing; apply their Allegheny education to real-world issues and challenges and integrate the learning that takes place both in and out of the classroom,” said Terrence Bensel, associate provost and director of the Allegheny Gateway, which provides opportunities for students to study abroad and engage in collaborative projects and experiences outside of the classroom.

“When Alex came to us with this opportunity it made sense to find ways to help support him in achieving his goal of working as a journalist at a major national political event,” Bensel said.

Hasapis is one of 66 students this summer participating in an experience that supports the pursuit of professional development, said Jim Fitch, Allegheny’s director of career education.

Hasapis applied for credentials in early spring and was notified he’d been approved in June. It wasn’t until earlier this month that he found out he’d cleared a final step in the process.

“This experience goes so far beyond journalism,” he said. “I’m going to see politics firsthand in our country. I’m going to see how politicians interact with each other, how the process works.”

Hasapis hopes to get in touch with members of the Pennsylvania delegation and said he also has requested interviews with speakers, including former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

“It’s a big stretch, but I’m also trying to get an interview for 15 minutes with Donald Trump,” he said.

What would he ask them?

“The story there would be how have their political beliefs changed over the years. What were their beliefs and, if they’re different now, how did you get to where you are today?”

Hasapis said he’s not afraid of stopping people he’s only read about or seen on TV to ask for an interview, if given the chance.

“You’ve got to be ready,” he said. “They’ll give you a few minutes, but you’ve got to be on the ball.”

He’ll try to stand out by looking for the stories that aren’t being told by the major media outlets.

“I’m trying to do something that’s not mainstream,” he said. “The professionals are going to take care of the hard news of what happens here. My goal is to write something a little more unique, a little more on the feature side.”

Hasapis’ interests extend well beyond journalism. He’s a kicker on the Gators football team, loves photography, and serves on both the College’s Curriculum Committee and the Student Athlete Advisory Committee.

“Allegheny student-athletes epitomize ‘unusual combinations,’” said Portia Hoeg, director of athletics and recreation. “Many of these individuals participate in theater, music, campus research, community engagement as well as their academic and athletic pursuits. The very premise of the NCAA Division III philosophy embraces not only being a student first but pursuing a variety of campus interests and activities while competing at a high level.”

Hasapis said he’s grateful for the support he’s received from many on campus, in Wooster and in Cleveland.

“To be a part of something this historic and to know that my institution and my city are behind me in doing this is one of the best feelings because I know they’re on the sideline quietly cheering me on. I’m excited to write news about this event and I know they’re excited to read it.”