Hello! My name is Aidan Dillard-Hijikata (pronounced hee-jee-KAH-tah).
I am based in Lexington, KY, and I am majoring in Environmental and Sustainability Studies at the University of Kentucky. Additionally, I am an experienced writer and journalist.
Previously, I worked for the Kentucky Kernel, the student newspaper, where I served as Opinions Desk Editor and contributed as a staff writer. As of May 2025, I have also begun an internship with the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Office of Communication in Frankfort, KY.
With nearly a decade of experience in journalism, I am well-versed in newsroom workflows and AP Style formatting. I have also dabbled in photojournalism during my time at the Kentucky Kernel, where I gained comfort both in front of and behind the camera, though my experience was relatively brief.
This website serves as a portfolio showcasing my published works and as a general résumé.
– Current Work Experience –
Editor | Watchdog News | December 19, 2025 – Present
At Watchdog News, I am the Opinions Desk Editor. This requires copy-editing, proof-reading and quality checking of articles that come to my desk, as well as ensuring that all articles are up to Watchdog’s internal standards and Associated Press Guidelines.
Hospitality Specialist | Logan’s Linens | c. Jan 2024 – Present
I unload semi-trucks from the industrial laundromat and transport 300 to 600-pound carts from the lower-level docks to various supply rooms throughout the hospital. To perform this task efficiently, one must have strong spatial awareness and be able to maintain a steady pace while handling physical labor.
While this job is not directly related to the fields I am interested in, it does require significant interaction with people and provides a valuable customer service experience.
– Past Work Experience –
Co-Op/Intern | Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet | May 19, 2025 – August 17, 2025
I worked in the communications division of the Energy and Environment Cabinet, where I managed both internal communications (such as office memos) and external communications (like press releases). My role also involved fieldwork, which typically required traveling to various locations to photograph and document events. Afterward, I compiled this information into a detailed essay on the subject.
Opinion Desk Editor & Staff Reporter | The Kentucky Kernel | c. Jan 2024 – May 14, 2025
As the desk editor for the opinions section of the Kernel, I edited, proofread, and quality-checked all articles and essays that came to my desk. This role required a solid understanding of The Associated Press Stylebook and a comprehensive knowledge of linguistics and journalism.
Back-of-House Training Manager | Chipotle Mexican Grill | May 7, 2021 – Jan 1, 2024
I implemented Chipotle’s “Food Safety Seven” and ensured that both new and current employees followed these guidelines. I also regularly worked the grill and other back-of-house positions, including the dish pit.
– Volunteer Experience –
TREES! Lexington | Lexington, KY
Art Matters | Bowling Green, KY