Hi, I am Larissa Gao
I am a multimedia storyteller and strategic communicator
I am pursuing a master’s degree at HKU Master of Journalism Program. I have a great passion for data journalism and global affairs reporting. Currently, I am working at NBC News as an intern reporter for the Asia Desk.
I graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a major in Convergence Journalism-Multimedia Production. In the course of learning at Mizzou, I gained hands-on reporting and producing experience by working as a multimedia journalist for KBIA-FM (NPR-affiliated media organization), Missouri Business Alert, KOMU (NBC-affiliated television station), and the Columbia Missourian.
I also worked as a public relations intern and video editor at Essential Stories Project, an international not-for-profit media production team. Besides, I worked in the innovation team, Pass the Mic, in Gannett to collect news articles to support source audits and help the Gannett team analyze findings. I also participated in prototype development and testing and drafted vetting/moderation guidelines for the service.
Recent Published Stories
Halloween Extravaganze
Paws 4 A Cause Inc held Howloween Trick & Treat Spooktacular to benefit Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue, a non-for-profit organization.
International Day of People with Disabilities
Masks help slow the spread of COVID-19, but they also hinder lip-reading and facial cues – all of which play a huge role in everyday conversation.
Kimmswick
During the last weekend of October, Kimmswick’s city square usually bustles with tourists and vendors, making it a lively hub for commerce. But the cancellation of Kimmswick’s two major events – the Apple Butter Festival and Strawberry Festival – due to COVID-19 concerns has left this town on the brink of financial ruin.
Planetarium
Columbia Public Schools Planetarium held Soaring into STEM Expo to attract kids and teenagers interested in STEM.
#EndSARS protest in Nigeria
For most journalists, reporting costs time, energy and sleep. For Kofi Bartels, a radio journalist in Nigeria, reporting nearly cost him his life. Reporting on protests to end police brutality in Nigeria can be risky because the police brutality may become directed at the messenger. However, reporters like Kofi Bartels and Yemisi Adegoke continue their work because they know keeping the public informed helps them take ownership of their democracy.
Larissa Gao 