Joshua Easterling, an intern at The Wright State Guardian, has grown his journalism skills since joining this fall semester. For Easterling, The Guardian has been a place to put himself out there creatively and collaborate with others in a field he enjoys.
“It’s about having an outlet to share the spotlight, and using the creative outlet to form something special," Easterling said.
Easterling’s standout and favorite articles are ‘Dayton’s Not Dead’ and ‘Dayton’s Global Intuitive’. He expressed that both articles showcase the beauty and history of his hometown. Both articles focus on the events and traditions happening across the town, with various ways to engage with the people, highlighting that it offers abundant ways to connect with its history and people.
In his personal life, Easterling enjoys horseback riding and is accomplished in the sport.
“I’ve won 30 total competitions and 3 championships, as well as winning 5 showcase events," Easterling said.
He also assists kids with disabilities in realizing their identities and capabilities despite their difficulties, through horseback riding. Easterling, who has high-functioning autism, finds this job fulfilling and intimate.
"For me, the work is all about showing the kids that their disabilities don’t define who they are," Easterling said.
He is also a member of the fraternity Phi Kappa Tau. Most recently, he was elected to head personal relations for the Spring 2026 semester. He shared a prior need for brotherhood, and he has loved the experience so far. His journey to college was complex, but he’s proud of where he is now.
“Previous high school educators told me I could never make it, but I did," Easterling said.
He is currently on track to graduate in 2027 with a major in communication and minors in both media studies and Pre-Law. In the long term, his goal is to launch a career in either journalism or screenwriting.
