From Passion to Prime-Time Anchor: Matthew Herchik’s Inspiring Story

Dreams don’t work unless you do. That’s a mantra Matthew Herchik, a 2016 graduate of Ohio Media School’s Columbus campus, has clearly embodied throughout his inspiring journalism career. Currently serving as a Weekend Anchor for WCMH-TV (NBC4) in Columbus, Matthew’s success story illustrates what it means to put in the effort, persevere, and thrive in the competitive world of broadcast journalism.

A Career Reimagined

Before taking his place in front of the camera, Matthew was already a college graduate working in sports sales and marketing. Determined to follow his true calling, he sought a path that didn’t require another four years of study but could provide him with the tools he needed to succeed in media. Enter Ohio Media School.

“The Ohio Media School offered me the perfect opportunity to shift my career trajectory and pursue something I was truly passionate about,” Matthew says. “Being able to learn applicable skills in a hands-on environment made all the difference in my transition into journalism.”

The Training Ground of Champions

From day one, Matthew adopted a no-nonsense approach to his education. Balancing a full-time job, marriage, and evening classes, his days were anything but easy. Yet, his focus never wavered.

“Aside from attending the evening program from 6 PM to 10 PM, I often stayed late to complete assignments or practice my craft. Even on days off, you’d find me at the school refining my techniques,” he recalls. “You get out what you put in—that mindset was instrumental during my time at Ohio Media School.”

This rigorous dedication paid off. The technical and professional skills Matthew learned—from writing scripts to video editing, on-camera presence to teamwork—not only prepared him for his first role but continue to guide him every single day in his life as an anchor.

Rising Through the Ranks

After graduating, Matthew hit the ground running. His undeniable passion, coupled with industry-relevant training, landed him roles at WHIZ-TV in Zanesville and later WITN-TV in North Carolina. These roles gave him the opportunity to cover everything from local high school sports to major events like hurricanes and political visits.

Fast forward to November 2020, and Matthew returned home to Columbus to join NBC4. Through his role, he’s been able to tell impactful stories and engage with the community he holds dear. From covering severe weather to national news events, Matthew’s ability to connect with viewers and deliver compelling content has earned him a respected place in his field.

Not one to stand still, Matthew also devotes himself to making a difference off-air. A proud board member of Netcare Access, he works to ensure critical mental health and substance abuse services are accessible for the Central Ohio community.

Advice for Future Media Professionals

When asked what advice he has for aspiring students, Matthew emphasizes hard work and professionalism above all else.

“You get out what you put in,” he stresses. “Whether you are preparing to be a student or preparing to graduate and begin the job search, the opportunities you receive will be a direct reflection of the level of effort you put in. If you show up to class/work late, if you don’t *both look and ACT professional, if you do the bare minimum, if you goof around or don’t take assignments seriously, if you’re lazy and/or sleep late/all day, you will never achieve your goals.”

Matthew credits much of his success to the foundation Ohio Media School helped him build. “Being an anchor today for a top-30 market like Columbus is a dream come true. The skills I gained during my time in the program are integral to everything I do, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.”

Looking to the Future

Nine years after taking that leap into media at age 28, Matthew has already achieved many of the goals he set for himself. However, he’s far from finished. “Eventually, I’d like to transition into monetizing my career independently, free of the constraints of local newsroom operations,” he says. “But no matter what, the foundation for anything I pursue stems back to the lessons and experiences I gained at Ohio Media School.”

A Story to Motivate You

Matthew Herchik’s story exemplifies the limitless possibilities available to those willing to commit wholeheartedly to their ambitions. From a career pivot to becoming a trusted anchor in his hometown, there’s no question Matthew is shining proof of how passion combined with effort can create extraordinary success.

Could you be the next Ohio Media School success story? The tools and guidance are here; all you need is the determination to take the first step.

Start shaping your future in media today. Contact us to learn how Ohio Media School can help turn your dream into a reality!