He was inspired to study journalism during a career fair while he was in high school.

A visiting professional encouraged Llamas to consider journalism because of his interest in writing. During his first internship, 15-year-old Llamas discovered that journalism was his passion. “I got the bug, and I really haven’t looked back since,” he said.Llamas’ interest in journalism led him to choose Loyola. “Loyola had an amazing facility at the time, and the communication school had an amazing reputation,” he said.

 While a student, Llamas gained practical writing and reporting exposure.

“Loyola pushed knowing how to write,” he said. Students also “had to do live reporting and gained experience in front of the camera, which was really beneficial coming out of school.” This experience prepared him for the competitive journalism industry.

The secret to success is working hard, Llamas advises. “If you really want to make this a career, you have to hustle,” he said. “There are so many people who want to get in. You have to be the complete package coming out of school.” Students should begin “doing internships and building [their] reputation early on,” Llamas said, because when it comes down to it, “it’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.”