From the moment he walked into high school, Martin Savidge knew he wanted to be a journalist. Now, about 30 years later, he has traveled the world and done just that, bringing his experiences to Ohio University’s commencement ceremonies June 14.
Savidge graduated from Ohio University in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He has gained recognition as a CNN international and domestic news anchor and foreign correspondent.
"It's the best job in the world for me," Savidge said. "It exposes you to so much in life."
Working as an embedded journalist in about five wars is on the long list of Savidge's experiences. His most recent combat-coverage experience was in the military campaign in Iraq where he followed the 1st battalion, 7th Marine division. There, he reported for four months, the longest he had ever been away from home.
Although his decision to be embedded was completely voluntary, Savidge said he was often in danger and felt very afraid. But he said, "When it's the worst for me, it's the best for CNN."
Savidge also said he felt nervous before giving the graduation speech.
"(At graduation), you have an audience whose minds are open like a sponge -- that's terrifying," he said.
Savidge arrived in Athens for the first time in the fall of 1977. He said he picked OU for college because he could work and gain experience, and he pointed to the university as the source of his success in life.
"Where OU is reflected in my life is professional," Savidge said. "I wouldn't be where I am without OU."
But OU is not the only reason for his success, he said.
"There's a combination of factors," Savidge said. "Persistence, patience, skill -- and luck. As a journalist, I rely on luck."
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Martin Savidge
