Kiara Moore
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science in Communications Next Steps: Pursuing grad school
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Kiara Moore, a first-generation college student from Washington, D.C., is graduating this winter with a Bachelor of Science in Communications, concentrating in broadcast journalism. With a passion for storytelling and elevating underrepresented voices, Moore plans to continue building her professional portfolio and pursue roles in broadcast media. She is currently awaiting responses from several graduate schools. Moore’s journey has been defined not only by her academic achievements but also by her commitment to amplifying stories that matter.
For Kiara Moore, transferring to Bowie State in 2023 offered a fresh start and a supportive, culturally rich community. At Bowie State, she has grown as a student and person, thriving through mentorship, career-focused programs and a campus that celebrates diverse cultures and promotes belonging.
“At Bowie [State], I’ve grown not only as a student journalist but as a person,” Moore said. “Being surrounded by people who look like me and genuinely want to see me shine has been life changing.”
While Kiara Moore came to Bowie State specifically for its communications program, she quickly discovered the university offered more than academics. She found an empowering community with a strong sense of identity and HBCU pride. Bowie State’s focus on hands-on learning and culturally affirming experiences helped her see herself not just as a student, but as a young professional ready to make an impact.
“I thought Bowie would shape me as a journalist,” she said. “But it shaped me as a person—especially as a young African American woman.”
Through rigorous coursework, media projects and faculty mentorship, Moore has honed her skills and developed professionally. She credits mentors like Dr. Otis Thomas for guiding her transition and academic journey.
“He was the first person I met when I arrived, and he’s been an amazing mentor ever since,” she said.
At Bowie State, students benefit from faculty who are deeply invested in their success, providing guidance, encouragement and real-world experience. Moore encourages her peers to fully engage with these opportunities.
“Be driven. Be grateful for every opportunity and talk to your professors. There are people here who truly want to see you win.”
Impact of the Bowie State Experience
One of the defining moments of Moore’s college career was being selected for the HBCU in LA Cohort, an elite internship pipeline and partnership with Bowie State University that connects students with top entertainment and media companies. Through this program, Moore secured an internship with Disney’s daytime talk show, “The View,” in New York City.
“The cohort matched me with Disney, helped me prep for interviews, and even provided housing,” she said. “My recruiter at Disney made the process easy and welcoming, and the program staff supported us through every step. It was an amazing opportunity.”
Her time at Bowie State University has prepared her to pursue her career with confidence, purpose and a commitment to amplifying stories that matter. As she looks ahead, Moore shares the guiding principle that has shaped her journey.
“You should always be teachable and hungry to learn more,” she said.
After graduation, Kiara Moore plans to pursue roles in broadcast journalism while working to amplify stories centered around community impact, equity and mental health awareness. She also plans to pursue a master’s degree in journalism and is awaiting responses from several graduate schools.