From switching majors to switching gears, MaKayla “MaK” Wilkerson is stepping into her role as Assistant Editor of The Echo with passion, precision, and a whole lot of heart.
A junior mass communication major with a minor in marketing, Wilkerson didn’t originally plan on being in journalism. She started her time at Southern Nazarene University as a nursing major before quickly realizing she belonged behind the pen, not the stethoscope.
“With the help of my dear friend Jose Ramos and my favorite professor, Jim Smith, I joined The Echo in the spring semester of my sophomore year with full excitement,” she expressed.
Wilkerson credits Professor Smith’s guidance and the encouragement of friends for helping her discover her passion for writing.
“Writing has always been a passion of mine, but in high school I was told I was not good enough to be successful in it,” she claimed. “With Professor Smith being an amazing mentor, allowing me to prove them wrong, my love for it resurfaced, ready to tackle any battle that came my way.”
Her leadership style is characterized by honesty and care.
“I put my intentions out on the table first before confusion arises. I want my peers to feel joy in what we do,” Wilkerson voiced.
One of her biggest challenges is managing anxiety.
“As someone who overthinks about my success, I need everything to be perfect,” she said. “But having Jose and Jay remind me that we are a team and a family helps keep my heart and mind at ease.”
Wilkerson values communication and honesty as her strengths.
“I hold people accountable and tell them what they need to hear – not what they want to hear,” she noted. “I lead by being vulnerable about my ups and downs to create a work atmosphere that is honest and consistent.”
Her favorite stories celebrate student passions.
“I adore hearing how much SNU students love their extracurricular activities,” Wilkerson shared. “Each organization on campus holds so much love for the people around them.”
She is committed to ensuring The Echo reflects the diversity of the student body.
“Every interview gives forth a different perspective,” Wilkerson conveyed. “Working alongside amazing people I get to call friends is a blessing. We will create an environment where we love each other first and do work we love.”
Outside the newsroom, Wilkerson wants to balance work and life.
“My personal goal outside the newspaper is to be successful in school and my relationships,” she expressed. “More often than not, I turn down plans to go out with friends so I can get things done.”
“No sleep? Who cares! College is an experience we only get once, and I am choosing to enjoy it while also being successful. I hope to break those barriers and get out of my comfort zone every once in a while.”
With vision, vulnerability, and unwavering determination, MaK Wilkerson is ready to bring authenticity to The Echo–leading with honesty and heart with every keystroke.
Photos by: José Ramos