For Caleb Gottry ’26, storytelling is not just a skill, but rather a calling. As a
journalism major, music minor and Chancellor’s Scholar from Gilbert, AZ., Caleb has found a unique way to combine two lifelong passions
into a dynamic experience at TCU. Whether he is editing stories for TCU 360 as executive editor or performing in the vocal jazz ensemble, Caleb acts with intention and passion in everything he pursues. His journey as a
student, individual and professional is defined by curiosity, creativity and a deep
commitment to telling other people’s stories.
A Spark for Storytelling
Caleb’s passion for journalism began in high school, when he served as the sole sports reporter at his small high school.
“My graduating class was only 72 students, so I covered every sport and game I could,” Caleb explains. There was not a single defining moment that drew him in, but rather a series of opportunities to share the stories of those around him.
“I loved the process of telling other people’s stories and I wanted to keep doing that in college.”
Initially expecting to pursue sports journalism, Caleb’s first year at TCU opened his eyes to new forms of storytelling. He found himself gravitating toward arts journalism, a space where his interests in writing and music could overlap. a space where his interests in writing and music could overlap.
“TCU has taught me to be a flexible and adaptable journalist, a careful editor and an involved person in the global community,” Caleb says. That adaptability, he believes, is one of the most important qualities a journalist can have in today’s industry.
Finding Confidence on Campus
Caleb knew TCU was the right place for him the moment he visited campus. A long conversation with Department Chair and Associate Professor of Journalism Uche Onyebadi, Ph.D., cemented his decision.
“He sold the program as one where I could get involved quickly, grow my skills and learn about different aspects of journalism that I did not know existed or that I would be interested in,” Caleb recalls.
Even as a freshman, that is exactly what Caleb did. From reporter to executive editor at TCU 360, Caleb has worked in nearly every corner of the student newsroom. One of his favorite stories to report was the feature he wrote about Aidan Cottrell ’23 – one of TCU’s longtime SuperFrogs, who later went on to work as a mascot for the Harlem Globetrotters.
“It was a unique story to tell. I got to know Aidan as a student and then got to reveal his secret identity after he graduated.”
As executive editor, Caleb’s leadership in the newsroom has been challenging, but the rewards far outweigh the hurdles.
“When we all come together, we have so many different perspectives and outlets that we can spread TCU 360 all across campus and deliver the best product we can,” Caleb emphasizes.
Music as a Parallel Path
While journalism shapes Caleb’s professional aspirations, music remains his creative escape.
“Both of my parents are music teachers, so I have grown up with it my whole life,” he shares. “I considered majoring in music, but I didn’t want it to become work – I wanted it to remain something special.”
As a music minor and member of TCU’s vocal jazz ensemble since his first semester, Caleb has built lasting relationships within the TCU School of Music.
“The School of Music is highly competitive, but also a highly supportive environment,” he says. “Walking in as a minor and still being encouraged to grow as a musician has been a gift.”
A Career-Defining Milestone
This spring, Caleb was awarded the prestigious Dow Jones News Fund editing internship, a competitive program that selects top student journalists from around the world. The application process is rigorous, including essays, recommendation letters and an editing test that covers multiple aspects of journalism ranging from reporting to social media.
“Applying for the internship is not something I would have attempted without the encouragement of Associate Professor of Professional Practice Jean Marie Brown,” Caleb shares. “She believed in me and emphasized that this opportunity would open multiple doors in the future,” Caleb shares.
As part of the internship, Caleb will complete a training program then work as a full-time editor.
“I am excited to get real-world newsroom experience from day one,” he exclaims. “I will be working with professional reporters and helping shape their stories. This is a huge step in becoming the editor I aspire to be.”
Looking Forward
Caleb envisions a future where writing, editing and music all remain integral parts of his life.
“After graduation, I want to be writing or editing, still playing music and spending time with friends and family,” he says.
He is not exactly sure where that path will lead, but with Dow Jones on his resume and extensive experience behind him, his options are wide open and set for success.
His advice for aspiring journalists is simple and powerful.
“Start now. You do not need to wait for someone to tell you it is okay to write or create,” Caleb emphasizes. “If you want to do it, pick up a pen – or open a laptop – and begin.”
As Caleb reflects on his time at TCU, he emphasizes the importance of being beyond the classroom and embracing the full scope of the university experience.
“To be a journalist at TCU is to be involved in more than yourself,” he reflects. “That is what prepares you to cover the world, by stepping outside of your comfort zone and into someone else’s story.”
Through this mindset, Caleb Gottry is not only shaping his future, but the next generation of journalists.
Macy Bayer ’28 studies journalism and marketing at TCU with a minor in political science. She is a member of TCU’s John V. Roach Honors College and is from Muenster, Texas. Macy is a social media and marketing intern for the Office of Admission.