I'm Madeline Ottilie, an award-winning reporter for KIRO 7. Join me on KIRO News at 4, 5, 6 & 7 p.m. 1. Where did you grow up? I grew up in San Diego, California. 2. Why did you become a journalist? I wanted to become a journalist because I wanted to find a job where I could help amplify the voices of the voiceless. It was important to me to find a career where I knew I could make a difference and I love that we're able to do that every single day! 3. What cities have you worked in during your journalism career? I started my career in El Paso, Texas and spent the last few years in Cincinnati, Ohio. 4. What's the most memorable story you've ever covered? I reported on the ground during the El Paso Walmart mass shooting in 2019. I had never seen something so horrific, but I was so impressed by how the community came together. Sharing the important stories that day and in the days that followed reminded me of the power and importance of local journalism. 5. What are you most proud of in your career in news? I'm most proud of all the little things we do to help people in our communities, whether our stories help viewers save time or money, or help connect them with essential resources. 6. What's something people don't know about you? I spent a week in Seattle in high school at a rowing camp based out of the University of Washington. It was beautiful! I ended up becoming a Division 1 coxswain at USC. Fight on! 7. What do you like to do when you're not working? I love taking walks and exploring new neighborhoods! I'm also a big foodie. If you have any must-try restaurant recommendations, drop me a note at madeline.ottilie@kiro7.com.