Meet one of Downtown Phoenix Journal’s interns for the spring 2018 semester!

Name: Nate Fain

Hometown: Overland Park, KS

School, Major and Year: I’m a graduate student, studying journalism at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Why Did You Choose Your Major?:
I’ve always enjoyed telling stories. Good stories help us understand our world better, and help us start dialogues with the people we share it with. I want to contribute to that conversation.

What Are Your Professional Goals?:
I love sports. They galvanize communities and fortify bonds between family members in ways that nothing else can. My dream is to someday cover major sporting leagues and events. I want to apply the skills I’ve learned in school to investigate sports and expose corrupt people who try to take advantage of sports’ amazing popularity for their personal gain at others’ expense.

Favorite Things to Do When Not Working or In Class?:
When I’m feeling energized and active, playing basketball, golf and touch football in the park are ways I enjoy spending my free time. When the grind of class has me feeling overworked or fatigued, I usually find a good movie to see or a happy hour to attend. I find the downtown area meets all these needs, which is great.

Favorite Non-Academic Thing to Read?:
I read all kinds of books and magazines. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot of non-fiction. Currently, I’m devouring Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trail ’72 by Hunter S. Thompson.

Favorite Thing About Downtown Phoenix?:
Downtown Phoenix is a relatively quiet area, but there always seems to be something going on. It’s a really peaceful balance. Downtown has something to offer everyone, from art and music enthusiasts to fans of theater, sports and good beer, like me.

Favorite Place to Eat in Central Phoenix?: Angels Trumpet Ale House has some of the best flatbread pizzas you’ll ever try. I recommend the “Tractor.”

If You Could Have Dinner With Any Three People (Living or Dead), Who Would You Choose?:
Bill Simmons, Kate McKinnon and Ken Kesey.

Favorite Quote:
“I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.” -Hafez

I’m Excited to Intern at DPJ Because:
This will be my first opportunity to cover a city. And one as big and diverse as Phoenix will be an exciting challenge. It’s going to be a great semester!

Photo by Nate Fain