Meet Maggie McKay
By CDD Staff
While basking in the afterglow of a long weekend of Independence Day celebrations, a communiqué from the wretch came over the wire bearing an official announcement that had the whole newsroom quite inconsolable with joy for a full five minutes: our intrepid intern (a term that hardly seems to do justice to how invaluable an asset she is) — a true gumshoe with a passion for journalism matched only by raw talent when it comes to the written word — would be rejoining the team for a short while this summer. After the smoke cleared, we thought it only right to introduce our readers to the ever-stalwart Maggie McKay to our loyal readers.
Place of Birth: Charleston, South Carolina
University/College: The University of Alabama (Roll Tide)
What is your area of study or studies? What sparked your interest in these subjects?
I’m currently studying Public Relations with a double minor in Management and Art. Growing up in a culturally dynamic scene like Charleston, I’ve always had an interest in pursuing a creative public relations field- specifically bluegrass music or fine art. While working on stories I have the opportunity to interview incredibly entertaining and intelligent people in the art and music community, each of whom has stoked my interest in Public Relations (plus my parents will be thrilled my art degree ended up having some academic perks in the long run!).
Favorite thing to do in the summer: Heading to Ellis Creek Fish Camp for the best tacos in town — I can’t imagine a better way to kick off the weekend than on the marsh. Sailing has always been my favorite summer pastime (although I have turtled in more regattas than I’ve placed). I also love spending the weekends on the boat with family and friends.
Highlight of summer 2024 (besides rejoining the Charleston Mercury): Beyond being overjoyed to be back with the Mercury, I would have to say the study abroad art program I visited in Italy was an incredible highlight. As an art enthusiast, I was overwhelmed with excitement at the opportunity to spend the first half of my summer traveling across Rome, Orvieto, Florence, San Gimignano and Venice. The culture was incredible and the architecture and fine art were simply unbelievable.
What drew you to writing/journalism? Are there any authors that you cite as influences (if so, who?): I would be remiss not to thank Tracey Zirneklis for sparking my interest in journalism. As a teacher, advisor and friend, she encouraged me to strive for writing that felt personally engaging- rather than viewing her assignments as just part of an English class.
When it comes to more creative styles, Oscar Wilde and T.S. Elliot are both major influences on my writing technique. Both vivid, descriptive language that truly immerses the reader in the experience. I also enjoy their use of light humor and thematic metaphors to add a personal relationship to their audience.
Favorite book: Always The Great Gatsby. Even after reading it a few times in middle school and high school the story always had a lasting impression on me: the novel addresses the key social and moral consequences of our actions through a timeless and thrilling plot line.
Most played song of the summer: “Call Me” by St. Paul & The Broken Bones is always a summer song for me. It’s hard not to dance to.
Favorite story with the Mercury: The Charleston Espresso Martini Competition of 2023. Naturally, the espresso martinis were top-tier, but it was the level of entertainment and skill behind the competition that left a lasting impression on me (instead of the caffeine overload, thankfully). Most importantly, interviewing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Mercury with Peter Williams was an unbelievable experience. The experience of speaking with Mr. Kennedy opened my eyes to a newfound understanding and appreciation of the impact my generation has on political activism. I look forward to being involved in more exciting stories this summer!
