Hello! My name is Viyang Hao, and I’m the first dedicated student writer for Stony Brook Matters. I’m a double major in journalism and political science, a reporter for the Statesman, and involved in lots of other student activities on campus. I’ll have the pleasure of writing about those experiences, as well as my other exploits as a freshman (from the Class of 2026!) for this website and its many readers – especially Stony Brook University’s alumni and friends!
Since I was in fifth grade, I’ve been interested in journalism as a potential career path. I’m excited by the idea of informing the public around me about current events, as well as giving voice to underrepresented communities. By writing for all of you, I can help make this dream come true.
As a junior and senior in high school during the COVID-19 pandemic, I had a lot of time to digest what was happening in politics, both nationally and internationally. Since then, I’ve become very interested in social issues and U.S. politics, especially where they intersect. I think giving credit where credit is due is important, as is showing some sense of constructive criticism. And I want my writing to reflect that. During my four years at Stony Brook, I hope to dive deeper into my interests, providing a different perspective of what’s happening in campus life.
What’s school like from the point of view of a student in the School of Communication and Journalism? You can expect answers to that question in my monthly updates starting in October. I’m excited to share my experiences with Stony Brook graduates and others like me who have stepped onto campus for the first time. I’m also looking forward to getting to know you and the entire Seawolves community, wherever in the world you are, and whatever your story.
— Viyang Hao ’26
