Growing up in an eastern suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, Brittany Soeder was a nationally competitive figure skater. While performing and being interviewed as a young girl, she made the decision to someday be a reporter herself. She loved to see the entire production of a live newscast, from the interviews to that flashing "on air" sign. It was also exciting to make a difference in people's lives by getting out in the community and being involved in real issues. She followed her dream by attending  John Carroll University in Cleveland majoring in television broadcasting, and graduated May 2007. While in college Brittany was a cheerleader and worked in the fashion world at Nordstrom, as a stylist. She did volunteer work using her figure skating expertise for the Special Olympics, teaching kids to skate and perform. Throughout her entire senior year, she was a reporting intern for Newschannel5 WEWS...the ABC affiliate in Cleveland. When the opportunity to work in sunny Florida arrived she left the grey skies of Cleveland, saying goodbye to family and friends along the way. Presenting an interesting and relevant story to the viewers is now her main focus here in Gainesville. In her free time, Brittany enjoys working out, traveling, shopping, and going out with friends. She loves hearing from you! If you have a story idea or any comments please email her at BSoeder@wcjb.com.