In a recent presentation to students at Pryor High School, Emma Landeros, a KJRH 2 News Oklahoma meteorologist and Pryor alumna, shared insights from her career journey, emphasizing the importance of early career guidance and family support.
Landeros reflected on her journey, tracing back to her middle school days when a home economics teacher, Mrs. Carrick, administered an aptitude test that helped her realize her passion for meteorology. As a child, she had enjoyed acting out weather broadcasts for her parents, and after that assignment, she knew it was the career she wanted. "It is all because of her," Landeros acknowledged gratefully.
Financial considerations played a significant role in Landeros's decision-making process regarding college. Rogers State University (RSU) awarded Landeros a scholarship and allowed her to commute. Even after transferring to the University of Oklahoma (OU), she tailored her schedule to ensure regular visits home. “Staying close to family is important to me," Landeros said.
As a first-generation college graduate, Landeros advised PHS students to take concurrent classes, emphasizing their benefits in credit transferability and academic preparedness. She urged students to make the most of their high school years. “High school students don’t always realize how busy they will be as adults, “Landeros said.
Landeros's transition to OU revealed the rigor of higher education, particularly in her chosen field, which required a strong foundation in mathematics—a subject she initially found challenging. Despite facing obstacles, she emphasized the value of seeking support. Landeros advises, “Ask more questions. Talk to professors and find those study groups.”
Landeros also shared her encounter with Mike Collier, a meteorologist from 2 News Oklahoma, at a Severe Weather Expo, which eventually led to a paid internship and her current position on the Channel 2 weather team.
Passionate about representing the Hispanic community, Landeros emphasized the importance of language skills in her career and shared her efforts to preserve her Spanish heritage. She explained that speaking multiple languages is beneficial in many careers.
Come out and see this Pryor graduate in action at the Severe Weather Expo at Woodland Hills Mall, April 6, 2024, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with meteorologists from KJRH Channel 2, KOTV Channel 6, KTUL Channel 8, KOKI Fox23, and the National Weather Service. Information about storm chasing and other weather-related careers will also be available.
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