Rebecca VanAcker

Position, Organization: News Writer and Editor, Screen Rant
Major/Graduation: BA in English, 2013

How did your MSU education help prepare you for your career?

I started college as an avid reader, and my MSU education helped solidify my love of writing. I had some wonderful professors in the Department of English who helped give me the confidence to seek a career in the field.

What are you doing now? Please describe your current position.

As a writer, I cover movie and TV news, with a focus on Marvel and DC properties. I also train incoming editors across all sections of the site, including comics, reality TV, gaming, tech, and features. A typical week involves a mix of writing and training.

Did you have any internships and/or study away or abroad programs that influenced your career and/or life? 

I received my teaching certificate through the College of Education’s Secondary program. Though I decided not to pursue a teaching career, my student teaching internship was an invaluable experience. It showed me teaching is a transferable skill useful in nearly any profession. I use techniques I learned during my internship in the training component of my job now. 

Did you receive any scholarships or grants and how did that help? 

I received federal grants throughout my time at MSU. They eased some of the financial burden, which allowed me to focus on my education. The money I saved came in handy as I started my career search after graduation.

Is there anything you’d like to add about MSU and your time on campus? 

In college, I had no idea my love of pop culture would lead to a career in the entertainment industry. However, looking back, talking with my friends at MSU helped foster my passion for TV and movies, which is an essential part of my job today.

Read more about Rebecca and find her publications with Screen Rant here.