Ben Shimkus

The first time I logged into an AJO classroom, I felt a rush of nervous adrenaline. I didn’t know if I would fit in. Before I launched the NYU Zoom session, I was a professional live stage actor, where I spent years interpreting other people’s words for audience members. But AJO brought out my unique voice.

I started AJO as a ball of moldable clay. I left with skills in investigative reporting, video production, audio editing, and an obsession with the news. It was one of the biggest leaps I’ve ever taken for myself — and it’s become one of the best bets I’ve ever made.