Senior journalism major Aynsley Larsen is recognized for her leadership, storytelling and impact within the College of Media & Communication.
Aynsley Larsen, a senior journalism major from San Antonio, will soon walk the stage at Texas Tech University as the Spring 2026 Banner Bearer for the College of Media & Communication (CoMC), an honor recognizing outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service within the college.
Larsen has been actively involved across campus through Peer Co, Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and The Daily Toreador, where she has worked since her freshman year. During her time at The Daily Toreador, she has served as a features writer, news editor, features editor and now managing editor. She has also worked as a First Year Experience student mentor in the Honors College and volunteers at a local elementary school. Outside of Texas Tech, Larsen is a member of The New York Times Corps, a two-year mentorship program that paired her with a New York Times reporter beginning in summer 2024.
Although Larsen has always enjoyed writing, her experience at The Daily Toreador helped solidify her passion for journalism. “I realized what a privilege it is to gather and tell people’s stories,” Larsen said. “I hope it’s something I have the opportunity to do for the rest of my life.”
Originally an English major, Larsen switched to journalism during her second semester after discovering the opportunities within the CoMC. She said the college’s focus on career preparation and hands-on experience played a key role in shaping her path.
Through her role at The Daily Toreador, Larsen has traveled to cities including New York City, Atlanta, New Orleans and Washington, D.C., covering major events such as the Goin’ Band’s performance in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and university milestone celebrations. She has also contributed to breaking news coverage on campus, gaining real-world reporting experience.
Larsen credits several faculty members and courses for influencing her growth, including classes with Lucinda Holt, Dr. Melissa Santillana and Sarah Self-Walbrick, as well as a study-away course in Marfa, Texas led by Dr. Lyombe Eko. These experiences allowed her to practice journalism in real-world settings and expand her perspective on storytelling.
“In Tech, I found a university that not only encouraged passion but helped me find one,” Larsen said. “In CoMC, I found an environment that cultivates passion-oriented and ethical individuals.”
Through her coursework, leadership roles and mentorship opportunities, Larsen said the CoMC has prepared her for a future in journalism by connecting her with experienced professionals and providing hands-on training.
After graduation, Larsen hopes to pursue a career that allows her to travel and report
on meaningful stories around the world, particularly those involving underrepresented
communities. “My absolute dream job? Embedding myself with scientists at a base in
Antarctica and telling the story of their research,” Larsen said.
The College of Media & Communication is proud to be represented by Aynsley Larsen
as the Spring 2026 Banner Bearer.