Graduating Missouri School of Journalism student Mayci Wilderman brings depth to storytelling

By Benjamin Miller

COLUMBIA, Mo. (May 13, 2025) — Mayci Wilderman, a graduating senior at the Missouri School of Journalism, has built a reputation for hard work and a growing passion for storytelling across sports and politics.

Originally from Brighton, Illinois, Wilderman began her college career at a community college, where she played softball for two years before transferring to Mizzou to focus on journalism. Though she had no prior experience in the field, she quickly immersed herself in classes and hands-on reporting at KOMU-TV, Missouri’s NBC affiliate.

“I needed to focus on what I wanted to do with the rest of my life,” Wilderman said. “Softball had to end eventually.”

Transitioning wasn’t easy. Arriving as a junior, Wilderman often felt behind peers who had spent years developing skills in journalism. But she caught up quickly, crediting persistence, a strong work ethic and the mentorship she received at Mizzou.

“It was overwhelming at first,” she said. “But after a few weeks, it became routine. I realized I could do this.”

Kat Lucchesi, an associate professor who taught Wilderman in two courses, said Wilderman stood out for her discipline, attention to detail and eagerness to improve.

“She’s a quick learner and a great listener who consistently sought feedback,” Lucchesi said. “Every conversation with her showed personal and professional growth. She was always ready to take advantage of every opportunity presented to her.”

Lucchesi first worked with Wilderman in the news content creation course, where Wilderman covered a beat focused on high school sports. Later, in the audience strategy course, Wilderman broadened her skills by working on client-based social media and marketing projects. Lucchesi said seeing Wilderman succeed across two very different types of journalism speaks to her versatility.

While sports journalism remains her primary career goal, Wilderman discovered a strong interest in political reporting while covering stories at the Missouri State Capitol.

“I found that I enjoy politics more than I thought I would,” she said. “Reporting on it has been a great experience.”

“She doesn’t just report who won the game. She tells the human stories — the ones you don’t always hear — and asks the right questions to uncover them.”

Kat Lucchesi, associate professor, Missouri School of Journalism

Lucchesi noted that Wilderman approaches storytelling with a unique depth, particularly in sports, by focusing on the people behind the headlines rather than just the final score.

“She doesn’t just report who won the game,” Lucchesi said. “She tells the human stories — the ones you don’t always hear — and asks the right questions to uncover them.”

Wilderman’s long-term ambition combines her athletic background with her passion for storytelling.

“My dream is to be a sideline reporter,” she said. “I love telling the stories that aren’t always seen.”

This summer, she plans to focus on building more experience in sports journalism, preparing for full-time opportunities after graduation. Though her next steps aren’t set, Wilderman is confident in her preparation.

“The journalism program made me a more confident, strong-willed person,” she said. “I learned that if you want something, you have to go after it.”

With a strong foundation in both political and sports reporting, and a proven ability to adapt and grow, Wilderman is ready to launch the next chapter of her career.

Updated: May 13, 2025