In the summer of 2024, Emmanuella Agyemang '26 received the honor of joining The New York Times Corps alongside 20 other college students across the country. The program pairs undergraduates pursuing journalism with a New York Times mentor, allowing them to learn from successful professionals in the industry and establish a strong foundation for success in their field after graduation.
Agyemang was paired with Zach Seward, editorial director for AI initiatives. She reflects on her first year with the Corps and the impact the experience has had on her ambition and industry knowledge.
Growing up in the Bronx, I was enveloped in a world rich with stories waiting to be told. As a first-generation Ghanaian woman and the daughter of two resilient immigrant parents, my identity has been shaped by a confluence of cultures, challenges, and aspirations. This unique background has not only informed my worldview but has also ignited a passion for media law — a field where I can champion diverse narratives and ensure equitable representation.
My parents' journey from Ghana to the United States was emblematic of courage and determination. They instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and the importance of education. Navigating the complexities of a new country, they faced numerous challenges yet remained steadfast in their pursuit of better opportunities for their children. Their experiences underscored the significance of storytelling as a means of preserving culture, advocating for justice, and fostering understanding.
In our household, stories were more than entertainment; they were lessons, connections to our roots, and bridges to the broader community. This upbringing cultivated my appreciation for the power of media and its role in shaping societal perceptions.
In 2022, I was fortunate to be selected as one of 20 students nationwide for The New York Times Corps, a mentorship program aimed at aspiring journalists from underrepresented backgrounds. I came across the opportunity through a LinkedIn post by Theodore Kim, the director of newsroom career programs at The New York Times. What motivated me to apply was my deep passion for media and journalism, along with my desire to grow as a writer and leader. The program paired me with experienced journalists who offered insights and mentorship, helping me refine my skills during my time as editorial editor at The Brown and White.
One of the most transformative aspects of this program has been my mentorship with Zach Seward, the editorial director for AI initiatives at The New York Times. Under his guidance, I’ve been exposed to the evolving landscape of media and the ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence in journalism. As a mentor, he has provided invaluable feedback on my editorial pieces, offering guidance on how to express my opinions more clearly and effectively to resonate with a broader audience.
Our conversations have deepened my understanding of the intersection between law, technology, and media, highlighting the urgency of ensuring that emerging technologies uphold journalistic integrity and protect marginalized communities from misinformation and bias.
Reflecting on my experiences at The New York Times Corps, I realized that media law is the path I truly want to pursue, especially as I see the growing challenges to First Amendment rights in journalism. My time with The New York Times Corps opened my eyes to the powerful role journalism plays in shaping public opinion and policy. It became clear to me that there is an urgent need for legal professionals who understand the complexities of media and are committed to protecting the freedoms that make journalism possible. I’m passionate about advocating for press freedom, navigating the evolving landscape of intellectual property rights, and ensuring that emerging voices — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — have the platform they need to be heard.
As a first-generation Ghanaian woman, I am acutely aware of the disparities that exist within media representation. I am committed to addressing these inequities by working towards a more inclusive media landscape that reflects the diverse fabric of our society.
The path from the Bronx to the realms of media law is both demanding and thrilling. With the wisdom gained from my background, mentorship from The New York Times Corps throughout my junior year until graduation, and a steadfast dedication to justice, I am ready to embark on this journey. I foresee a future where the media acts as a force for good, and I commit to being an advocate who guarantees that every story is shared with integrity, precision, and dignity.
More about Emmanuella
Emmanuella Agyemang '26 is majoring in journalism and Africana studies in the College of Arts and Sciences. She has proudly contributed to The Brown and White since her freshman year, starting as a reporter and designer. In 2024, she expanded her role to the editorial board, where she served as the editorial editor. After Lehigh, she aspires to attend law school and pursue a career in media law.
