Story by Logan Jackson
Devin Kraber had many interests growing up. They first wanted to travel the world as a pilot. That quickly shifted to exploring the stars as an astronomer. Kraber then decided they wanted to help patients as a pharmacist.
A journalism class their freshman year of high school put Kraber on a completely different path.
“I began writing about people who were incredibly interesting and about things that I was really passionate about,” said Kraber, who is from Coralville, Iowa. “I developed a love for telling stories. I had always been a person of many interests, and writing allowed me to have awesome conversations with individuals from many different fields. I was then able to share that information with so many others. It’s the coolest thing ever.”
Kraber’s interest in journalism lasted throughout their high school years. When it came time to choose a university to pursue journalism, Mizzou was one of the top choices on their list, in part because of the stellar School of Journalism. Kraber was also interested in the Stamps Scholarship, Mizzou’s premier academic award.
“I had actually never been to Columbia before I came for the Stamps Scholarship interview weekend,” Kraber said. “I immediately fell in love with the campus. Mizzou was also an affordable option but still offered such incredible programs and opportunities. The Stamps Scholarship is obviously an amazing program, but I knew whether I received that scholarship or not, I would be getting an amazing education at Mizzou.”
Mizzou Stamps Scholars have a variety of unique opportunities, including a dedicated mentor, opportunities to connect with campus leadership, alumni networking, funding for study abroad and connections with other students in a larger Stamps Scholarship network. Scholars also participate in research early on in their college journey and are enrolled in the Honors College for all four years, working toward the completion of the Honors Certificate.
Kraber is one of eight Stamps Scholars beginning their college journeys at Mizzou this fall and will pursue a journalism degree.
“I was the editor-in-chief of my school’s website, and I received the call about the scholarship while I was with my staff,” Kraber said. “I missed the first call, but I saw it was from a Columbia area code, so I called right back. Once I received the news, I was so excited. It was amazing to celebrate with my friends. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.”
As part of the Stamps Scholarship, Kraber will participate in a research project with a Mizzou faculty member. Kraber has already begun those research discussions and will work with Fred Anklam, an associate professor in the School of Journalism who is also the Curtis B. Hurley Chair in Public Affairs Reporting and the community editor for the Columbia Missourian.
“I actually wanted to be a scientific researcher at one point,” Kraber said. “I really enjoyed learning more about what journalism research can look like during the interview weekend. I talked with a couple fellow Stamps Scholars who showcased the important work they’re doing.”
Kraber added that there are several other programs and opportunities that they’ll explore throughout their first year on campus. They are especially interested in participating in study abroad.
“I would love to explore the world through one of the many Mizzou study abroad programs,” Kraber said. “The School of Journalism has several great options, and I think it would be awesome to see what journalism looks like in other countries. Having the opportunity to go beyond the classroom and gain hands-on experience at an overseas publication would be amazing.”