NDSU helps communication alum step confidently into the spotlight

From the classroom to center stage, Sophia Richards has never shied away from a challenge. And, thanks to her time at NDSU, she had the confidence to enter her dream job.

A 2023 graduate in strategic communication, Richards now hosts and produces North Dakota Today, a lifestyle TV show aired every weekday on Valley News Live. Richards coordinates interviews with community members, edits video, runs the social media channels and everything in-between to ensure the show runs smoothly.

While she has loved every minute of connecting with viewers, Richards didn’t always know becoming a television host was a career she wanted to pursue. Richards lacked self-confidence when she started college and doubted her public speaking abilities. However, because her classes and involvement on campus, she quickly realized what she could achieve.

“My time at NDSU really helped me become who I wanted to be,” Richards said. “I learned so many skills and made so many amazing connections. I wouldn’t be the person or the professional I am today if it weren’t for my time there.”

Richards said she uses the skills she gained from her degree every day on the job, including writing articles and reading through press releases.

“The things that I learned in class had such real-world value,” she said. “The professors did a really good job of making sure that what we were being taught in class was relevant.”

When the opportunity arose her senior year to become the host of North Dakota Today, Richards felt confident accepting the role.

Juggling classes and a job came with its challenges, but Richards credits the faculty in the NDSU communication department for helping her. Shuning Lu, NDSU assistant professor of communication, encouraged Richards to take her current job.

Richards has always loved staying busy. As a student she was involved in the Fashion, Apparel and Business Organization, the Public Relations Student Society of America, Greek Life, theatre and choir.

In addition to helping build self-esteem, Richards said her campus involvement allowed her to follow her passions outside of schoolwork.

“Doing things you’re passionate about really fuels you,” she said. “It’s hard not to put so much pressure on yourself during college, but doing things throughout the day that are fun, but still a little bit productive is great.”

Today Richards is still heavily involved throughout the community. Last year Richards was crowned Miss North Dakota, which allowed her to travel the state to connect with North Dakotans. It also provided her the opportunity to attend the Miss America competition in Florida. Richards is now the local director for the Miss North Dakota Scholarship Organization and will be organizing Miss Fargo in September.

As part of her pageant platform, Richards serves as a mentor, advocate and volunteer with BioGirls, a local program whose mission is to improve the mental health of adolescent girls through self-empowerment and connection to others.

Additionally, Richards has fostered dogs through 4 Luv of Dogs, she’s volunteered with the Emergency Food Pantry in Fargo, United Way and the YWCA, and she was a nominee for the YWCA Woman of the Year in 2024.

Despite her busy schedule, Richards takes the time to make visits back to campus to speak in communication classes and mentor students who want to learn more about journalism.

“Having someone who works in the field, but who also graduated so recently is nice because I remember what it’s like to be a student,” Richards said.

Her advice for students is to be confident and to know that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

“If you’re passionate about something and you’re working hard enough, then you can do it,” she said. “Don’t doubt yourself. You’re capable of more than you know.”

Discover more about Richards and her inspiring journey on the official NDSU YouTube channel.

Seize your moment by applying to NDSU today or scheduling a visit.