Nadgeena Jerome is a model, regular pageant contestant, advocacy ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) , and Senior Lifestyle Reporter for The U.S. Sun. Graduating from George Mason University in pursuit of a career in journalism. As a Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) alumnus, Jerome’s path differed from what some may consider typical. Through attending WJMC, graduating from GMU, interning and reporting for various news stations, being picked up by a modeling agency, and attending New York Fashion Week, Jerome has seen it all and is eager to share her wisdom with ambitious young men and women.
What brought you to WJMC while in high school?
Honestly, it all started with a letter in the mail. I remember showing it to my parents and crossing my fingers that they would say yes. Thankfully, they did, and I am so grateful because that yes ended up shaping so much of my path.
What about GMU caught your eye while there as a National Youth Correspondent?
Coming from New York City, GMU felt like a whole new world. It was calmer and more suburban, but with the bonus of D.C. energy just a train ride away. I loved how WJMC made the campus feel like home before I was even a student. That comfort made my transition to college life so smooth. I also got to work in the Office of Admissions with the Washington Scholars program, which gave me another layer of connection to the university.
Tenacity and resilience were the biggest lessons. WJMC taught me how to push past fear, to look for windows when doors are closed, and to believe in myself. I also learned how valuable community and networking are. Sometimes it is not what you know, but who you know.
How did you find your journalistic niche?
At first, I thought I wanted to be a straight news reporter. I did it for almost two years before realizing it did not bring me joy, and that was okay. I took a step back to explore entertainment, modeling, and acting, while also becoming a bigger part of my life, which gave me confidence and connections. Eventually, I landed as a Senior Lifestyle Reporter at The U.S. Sun by simple asking for the opportunity, showing my writing and reporting skills, and leaning on my network in PR, fashion, and beauty. I realized I could do it all if I managed my time well.
What advice would you give to aspiring journalists in securing an internship?
Start small by asking your circle, then branch out. Do not be afraid to shoot your shot. The worst someone can say is no, but that yes could change your whole career.
What advice would you give to aspiring models?
Just go for it. Start with digitals and submit to smaller agencies. You do not always need perfect photos, sometimes it is your personality that books the job. I once landed a runway show for a major European designer at Bridal Fashion Week without even having a comp card. I just happened to fit the measurements and brought good energy to the casting.
Remember that someone else is making money by simply being themselves, so why not you. People are watching whether you realize it or not, so give them a reason to keep watching. My motto is: “The difference between dreamers and achievers is that achievers never gave up.” Post the content, take the leap, and let it get easier with time. If it feels uncomfortable, that is actually good, because it means you are growing.
What has helped you gauge what is a priority when your schedule conflicts between journalism and modeling?
I look at two things: finances and connections. Bills are real, so I consider money first. I also weigh long-term opportunities. For example, I recently chose a modeling gig ahead of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) that paid a little less than an office news job, but I knew the environment and networking would be worth it. Sometimes the experience pays off more than the paycheck.
Jerome’s stories serve as an inspirational example of there being so specific, set-path to success; so, take that chance, put yourself out there, and see where life takes you.
