Dr. Keith Plocek

Associate Professor

Build a Statement of Purpose

Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Keith Plocek. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.

Biography

Keith Plocek is an Associate Professor of Professional Practice at USC Annenberg, where he teaches various journalism classes and researches the intersection of travel, culture, and surfing. Since joining USC Annenberg in 2014, Plocek has focused on digital storytelling, captivating students with projects like 'Shoot Curl: Digital Storytelling Surf Journalism,' which innovatively covers local wave-riding communities. He previously served as the director of digital content at Voice Media Group, leading a team of 12 web editors to produce diverse content across platforms including LA Weekly, OC Weekly, Village Voice, and Miami New Times. His investigative work for the Houston Press received nominations for the First Amendment Awards from the Fort Worth Society of Professional Journalists. He is also a freelance writer, contributing to prominent outlets like The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Los Angeles Magazine, and Travel + Leisure. Plocek holds a master's degree from Cambridge University and a bachelor's from the University of Texas at Austin.

Research Interests

Courses

Introduction to Coding Storytelling Storytelling Action Sports Directed Research Directed Research

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree
Application Checklist
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
  • Writing Sample/Journalism Portfolio
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Kira Talent Video Interview
  • Official transcripts
Specialization Notes

GRE is not required for Summer 2026 admission.